ABU DHABI, UAE — The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will return to the capital in September for its 35th edition, bringing publishers and cultural figures from around the world together for six days of literary, educational and creative programming.
The fair will take place from Sept. 13-18, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, or ADNEC, under the theme “Turn the Page, Read the World.”
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the event will feature about 1,500 activities and exhibitors representing 95 countries.
The program will include authors, academics, publishers and thinkers, alongside events designed for families, children and young adults.
Balkans take center stage
The Balkans will be the Guest of Honour at this year’s fair, highlighting the region’s literature, heritage and cultural links with the wider world.
The event will also place a spotlight on Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi, the renowned scholar and linguist, who has been selected as the edition’s Focus Personality.
Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote has been named the Book of the World, adding an international literary dimension to the program.
The selections reflect the fair’s focus on connecting different literary traditions and encouraging dialogue between cultures.
Three themes shape the program
This year’s program will be built around three broad areas: global culture and dialogue between civilizations, innovation and future-building, and the arts and live cultural experiences.
The schedule will combine literary discussions with educational activities, performances and programs aimed at younger audiences.
A new “Poetry Nights” series will also make its debut, bringing together poetry readings, conversations and critical discussions involving prominent Arab poets.
A dedicated professional program will examine developments and emerging trends in publishing, giving industry professionals an opportunity to discuss changes affecting the global book and creative sectors.
Sheikh Zayed Book Award ceremony
The fair will again host the Sheikh Zayed Book Award ceremony, recognizing the 2026 winners and marking more than two decades of the literary prize.
The award has supported authors, translators and researchers across the Arabic and international publishing landscape, making its annual ceremony a major fixture of Abu Dhabi’s cultural calendar.
The 2026 fair will also open with a special ceremony marking its 35-year history.
The opening program is expected to combine music and performances with a presentation inspired by Al Farahidi, whose scholarship in language and Arabic lexicography remains influential.
A family-focused cultural program
Family and youth programming will have a prominent role in this year’s edition, reflecting the UAE’s Year of the Family.
Activities for children and young adults will sit alongside the fair’s wider literary and educational schedule, giving families opportunities to engage with books, storytelling and creative activities.
The emphasis comes as Abu Dhabi continues developing its cultural offering around museums, heritage sites, publishing and major international events.
The capital is home to institutions including Louvre Abu Dhabi and the House of Artisans, while Saadiyat Cultural District is expanding its collection of museums and cultural venues.
The book fair forms part of that wider cultural ecosystem, bringing the publishing industry and the public together under one roof.
With the event opening Sept. 13, organizers are expected to release further details on participating authors, exhibitors and the full events calendar ahead of the fair.
For visitors, the six-day program will offer a broad mix of books, literary discussions, cultural performances, professional sessions and family activities at ADNEC.
