Al Ain Book Fair to showcase Emirati literary talent

The 9th edition of the Al Ain Book Fair, AABF, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler`s Representative in the Eastern Region, will celebrate a selection of Emirati titles and authors through a rich cultural programme.

Organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, TCA Abu Dhabi, from 24th September to 2nd October 2017, at Al Ain Convention Centre, the Fair will present the latest publications in the fields of literature, thought, poetry, history and a variety of academic and educational titles throughout its nine days.

The Book Fair will be open to visitors every day from 9am to 1pm, and 5pm to 9pm to attract as many visitors and community segments and provide the opportunity to explore the latest publications in the fields of literature, thought, poetry, history and a variety of academic and educational books.

Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Acting Executive Director of the National Library Sector at TCA Abu Dhabi, said, "Al Ain Book Fair is a cultural platform for communicating with Al Ain’s authors, writers and youth in an initiative aimed at promoting Emirati publishing and celebrating the intellectual Emirati achievements through the cultural seminars and sessions featured in the Fair.

"The show is an opportunity to encourage new writers in to the publishing industry through direct communication and to explore their achievements. We can confidently say that the UAE has been able to achieve in a few years in the field of publishing what other countries have taken decades to achieve due to the vibrant cultural and creative movement in the country, and the support and guidance of the wise leadership through the UAE’s numerous cultural, educational and research institutions," he added.

Appealing to all ages and interests, the book fair will also offer a dynamic programme for young people through the ‘Creativity Corner’ which will provide unique experiences for children and parents to discover the exciting dimensions of the world of books, reading and creativity.

The fair’s Cultural Programme will be a point of interest to the public, focusing on discussions with Emirati writers on various cultural and creativity issues. The programme will play host to a group of thought pioneers, intellectuals, writers and journalists attracting those interested in cultural and literary affairs. It will also provide the public with opportunities to meet with readers and participate in dialogue.

In recent years, Al Ain Book Fair has been able to attract major local publishing houses to Al Ain, and has witnessed an acceleration in qualitative development in terms of interest in culture and the publishing industry, especially since it cradles the largest national universities.