Categories
-Top News India News UAE News

Indian FM leads Yoga day celebrations in Abu Dhabi

Indian FM Dr S. Jaishankar, along with Indian Ambassador to UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, led the Yoga Day celebrations at the Louvre Abu Dhabi….reports Asian Lite News

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday participated in the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Abu Dhabi.

Jaishankar, along with Indian Ambassador to UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, led the Yoga Day celebrations at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, “Joined international yoga enthusiasts @LouvreAbuDhabi as we celebrate the #InternationalDayofYoga 2024 in the UAE.”

In his remarks before performing Yoga, Jaishankar noted that Yoga is an Indian tradition but it has now become a truly universal practice. He stated that International Day of Yoga has acted as a motivation, as a magnet, as a method of really gathering people, spreading the practice, actually in a way keeping the planet happier, healthier, more connected.

Jaishankar said, “I am really very happy to be able to join so many of you today in Abu Dhabi. I happen to be here today and I heard about the event and I agree with you that Yoga is an Indian tradition but I think it has now become a truly universal practice.”

“We are very pleased to see in the last 10 years how the International Day of Yoga has acted as a motivation, as a magnet, as a method of really gathering people, spreading the practice, actually in a way keeping the planet happier, healthier, more connected. So, it’s really for me a great pleasure to join you all this evening,” he added.

This year marked the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Yoga on June 21. In December 2014, the United Nations unanimously adopted a resolution proposed by India to celebrate the International Day of Yoga on June 21 which is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Jaishankar, who is on an official visit to the UAE, visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. He said that the temple is a true cultural bridge between India and the UAE.

Following his visit to the temple, Jaishankar in a post on X wrote, “Blessed to visit the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi today. A visible symbol of India-UAE friendship, it radiates a positive message to the world and is a true cultural bridge between our two countries.” (ANI)

ALSO READ: Jaishankar Meets UAE Counterpart on Strategic Ties

ALSO READ: Jaishankar Due in UAE for high-level talks

Categories
-Top News Arab News Asia News

Emirati culture to be showcased at Morocco’s Tan-Tan Moussem

This year’s edition is themed “20 Years of Conservation and Human Development.”…reports Asian Lite News

The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, in collaboration with various heritage preservation institutions, is set to participate in the Tan-Tan Cultural Festival, taking place in the southern region of the Kingdom of Morocco from June 26 to 30.

Held under the patronage of HM King Mohammed VI of Morocco, this year’s edition is themed “20 Years of Conservation and Human Development.”

Abdulla Mubarak Al Muhairi, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, emphasised that the participation in the Tan-Tan Cultural Moussem, since 2014, aims to shed light on the rich and diverse Emirati heritage, and highlight the efforts of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in sustaining intangible heritage.

He stressed the importance of participating in such events in terms of introducing the Emirati heritage and traditions, promoting them in international forums, showcasing their rich components. Furthermore, Al Muhairi underscored that this participation aims to cultivate harmony among the values, customs, and traditions, as well as the shared cultural heritage that unites the two fraternal nations. Such involvement stands as a testament to the deep and expanding relations between the UAE and Morocco, which extend far beyond cultural exchange.

Through the UAE Pavilion at the Moussem, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority will showcase a wide range of elements of UAE’s intangible heritage. Additionally, in cooperation with the Emirates Camel Racing Federation, the Authority will host several heritage competitions, including a camel race, a camel beauty pageant, and a camel milking competition.

The pavilion will feature a host of events and activities designed to educate the public about the living Emirati heritage. These include performances by folk arts troupes, live demonstrations of traditional handicrafts, Emirati cuisine, photo exhibitions, traditional games, and poetry soirees. Additionally, there will be concerts featuring several Emirati artists.

The Tan-Tan Moussem stands out as a lively celebration of Bedouin culture in Morocco and North Africa. This distinguished festival brings together various forms of Bedouin traditions through a rich program of music, art, and cultural activities that blend the past and present while highlighting the desert heritage. It offers a unique opportunity to experience and celebrate the shared heritage of Arab cultures, all woven together by the distinctive threads of traditional Saharawi culture.

ALSO READ: UAE climbs in global competitiveness ranking

Categories
-Top News Arab News Asia News

Abu Dhabi firms warned against illegal contracts with influencers

ADDED has appreciated the efforts of all licensed economic establishments in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to promote and create an ideal economic environment…reports Asian Lite News

Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has called upon all licensed economic establishments in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to comply with relevant controls and conditions when contracting with social media influencers.

In a circular, the ADDED has appreciated the efforts of all licensed economic establishments in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to promote and create an ideal economic environment for business in the Emirate.

Accordingly, ADDED called upon all licensed economic establishments in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to adhere to the following:

-The need for social media influencers to obtain a license from the department to practice the activity of advertising services through websites;

– The need for economic establishments to obtain a permit from ADDED when carrying out any advertisements (advertising, promotional, or marketing); and

-Economic establishments must ensure that they have a valid license issued by ADDED when contracting with influencers and social networking sites.

Non-compliance with the controls and requirements when contracting with social media influencers will expose the establishment concerned to the penalties and violations stipulated in the table of violations, and will expose the economic establishment to closure, due to its failure to comply with the circulars and controls issued by ADDED.

According to the circular, the penalty fees will start with AED3,000 and reach AED10,000.

ALSO READ: ‘Dubai’s IPO boom signals market strength’

Categories
-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

Abu Dhabi’s AGWA cluster to attract over Dh100b investments

AGWA will support attraction of investors and pioneers to launch new innovations and enable them to enhance traditional food and water production and supply….reports Asian Lite News

Abu Dhabi is paving the way for international investors to capitalise on opportunities provided by the recently launched AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance (AGWA), which is tapping into a USD 21.08 trillion (AED 77.4 trillion) industry with immense potential for growth and job creation.

Since the launch of AGWA last week by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) have announced key agreements with local and federal government entities to streamline regulatory approvals for the food and water industry, advancing it to play a leading role in global efforts to tackle food shortages and water scarcity.

By leveraging the regulatory environment and efficient licensing to ensure safe and secure production, AGWA will support attraction of investors and pioneers to launch new innovations and enable them to enhance traditional food and water production and supply.

AGWA is projected to attract USD 34.8 billion (AED 128 billion) in investments, create more than 60,000 new jobs, and contribute USD 24.5 billion (AED 90 billion) in incremental GDP to Abu Dhabi’s economy by 2045.

His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: “The launch of AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance cluster (AGWA) is part of our multi-polar strategy to future-proof the economy, enhance sustainability, and shape a brighter tomorrow for Abu Dhabi and the world”.

“We are developing appropriate frameworks and building synergies to enable investors to benefit from opportunities provided by AGWA and our soaring ‘Falcon Economy’ to grow and expand, supported by a business-friendly ecosystem, agile policies, robust infrastructure, access to funding, advanced trade facilitation solutions, and international markets connectivity to accelerate our transition to a smart, diversified, and sustainable economy.”

Led by the ADDED and ADIO, AGWA is set to become a global hub for novel food and ingredients, as well as technologies to increase access to and the utilisation of water resources. The innovative cluster is designed to support suppliers and exporters alike, serving as a platform to maximise commercial opportunities. It aims to help meet increasing global demand, alleviate pressures on agricultural systems, address shifting dietary patterns, capitalise on technological advancements, and support global food security to ensure a reliable and resilient supply chain.

The cluster represents the next phase of Abu Dhabi’s economic growth and diversification strategy to focus investments and resources into key growth sectors of the future. AGWA follows the 2023 launch of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster, which aims to position Abu Dhabi at the forefront of future mobility solutions across air, land, and sea.

ALSO READ: UAE allocates 70% of its $100m pledge to UN agencies

Categories
-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

Abu Dhabi launches ‘Unified Economic Licence’

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED and the Abu Dhabi Free Zones Council, said, “Free zones play a significant role in our economic diversification and attraction of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in key targeted sectors…reports Asian Lite News

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Free Zones Council launched the Unified Economic Licence in Abu Dhabi, spearheaded by Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD Group), Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ), Masdar City Free Zone, and Creative Media Authority (CMA) to bolster the Emirate’s competitiveness as a business-friendly destination for investors and entrepreneurs.

The new initiative unifies procedures for registering economic licences across the Emirate and its free zones, in a move to streamline business setup and reinforce governance and transparency. This will introduce a standardised reference number for all licences and ensure company data remains current within a newly integrated Abu Dhabi registry, simplifying data management and fostering collaboration between free zones and mainland authorities.

Investors will benefit from a seamless and faster digital setup process, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s commitment to continuously improve the business ecosystem and solidify Abu Dhabi’s position as a global business hub. To ensure a smooth transition, representatives from entities responsible for economic licence registration have formed a task force.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED and the Abu Dhabi Free Zones Council, said, “Free zones play a significant role in our economic diversification and attraction of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in key targeted sectors. Unifying the licensing process of economic establishments in the Emirate is a pivotal step, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s commitment to enhancing a business ecosystem that aligns with global standards, empowers investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents to capitalise on the extensive and promising opportunities offered by the Emirate’s dynamic and thriving economy. This is achieved through the revision and enhancement of legislative and regulatory frameworks, and accelerated efforts in digital transformation.”

“We are working alongside our strategic partners and all other stakeholders to create the necessary framework and activate an efficient system that unifies all registration activities. We will continue to develop this partnership to meet investors’ needs and to ensure that Abu Dhabi has the best conditions for ease of establishing and doing business, while increasing its global competitiveness and achieving our strategic goals,” H.E. Al Zaabi added.

Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group,  said, “AD Ports Group and its subsidiary KEZAD Group welcome the Abu Dhabi Free Zones Council’s initiative to unify the licensing process of economic establishments in Abu Dhabi. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to creating a streamlined and efficient business environment that aligns with global standards. By enhancing our legislative and regulatory frameworks and accelerating our digital transformation efforts, we are empowering investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents to fully leverage the extensive opportunities within our thriving economy.

“This unified system will facilitate easier business establishment and significantly boost Abu Dhabi’s global competitiveness. We look forward to continuing our partnership with ADDED, ADAFZ, Masdar City Free Zone, and Creative Media Authority to achieve our shared strategic goals and ensure Abu Dhabi remains a premier destination for business and investment,” he added.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said, “At Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone, our strategic vision is to establish Abu Dhabi as a premier global business hub catering to a diverse investor base. Central to our mission is facilitating seamless business operations, and we wholeheartedly support initiatives that aim to create a conducive business environment that attracts investors across target sectors. Our collaborative efforts to unify licensing for economic establishments will significantly streamline and enhance Abu Dhabi’s business landscape. This alignment with the emirate’s ambition fosters sustainable economic growth through increased diversification, ultimately advancing Abu Dhabi’s economic development aspirations.”

ALSO READ-Ballet Hispánico comes to Abu Dhabi

Categories
-Top News Arab News UAE News

Ballet Hispánico comes to Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi performance was attended by ambassadors of US, Costa Rica, Spain and France to the UAE….reports Asian Lite News

Ballet Hispanico of New York made its Arab world debut last Friday at the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi auditorium with a ballet performance that celebrated the fusion of diversity, heritage, and Hispanic culture.

Eduardo Vilaro, the Cuban Artistic Director and CEO of Ballet Hispanico, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that he was “thrilled to bring the show to this part of the world.”

He added, “The arts serve as a bridge to humanity,” and “we love to take our voices everywhere possible to show the many facets of being Latino.”

Vilaro stated that the auditorium saw 90 percent attendance over the two-day programme, with 1,500 attendees “enjoying a contemporary show that celebrated the different Latin cultures, with different types of dance movements like classical ballet, jazz and modern forms to create a distinctive movement vocabulary.”

The programme began with Pedro Rodriguez’s ‘Club Havana’, an homage to Cuban culture with West African influences through Mambo, Cha cha cha and Rhumba. Big band music, gorgeous costumes, and the story of six couples visiting a club took the audience on a journey to Cuba in the 1950s.

The performance continued with ‘Sombrerísimo’ by Annabelle López, a mysterious and playful work exploring the cultural significance of a hat. The last performance, titled ’18+1′, was an exciting ballet on the music of Pérez Prado, the famous Mexican orchestra leader, and choreographed by Gustavo Ramírez Sansano, presenting the different rhythms of Latin America with a dance of humour.

Ballet Hispanico, founded in 1970 by dancer and educator Tina Ramirez in New York, aimed to provide opportunities for Latino youth and artists when access to the arts was limited for the community.

Vilaro emphasised the company’s commitment to diversity and multiculturalism, highlighting the importance of embracing different perspectives and ideas. “As Latinos, we are a fusion of cultures such as African, Spanish, Asian, and others, which gives us a unique perspective celebrating all parts of those diasporas,” he added.

He stressed that multiculturalism “is important because it teaches us how to be better humans. It is the gateway to unity; if we can be good neighbours in a city, then we should be good neighbours in the world.”

In partnership with the US Embassy, Ballet Hispánico, the largest Hispanic cultural organisation in the United States and one of America’s Cultural Treasures, has performed throughout the Americas and the Caribbean, Europe and now the Middle East.

The Abu Dhabi performance was attended by the US Ambassador to the UAE Martina Strong; the Costa Rican Ambassador Francisco J. Chacón Hernández; the Spanish Ambassador Iñigo de Palacio España; and the French Ambassador Nicolas Niemtchinow, among other diplomats and officials.

ALSO READ: UAE FM tours Singapore’s National Institute of Education

Categories
Abu Dhabi India News UAE News

Lulu Expands, Shawamekh Hypermarket Now Open

The new retail shopping destination provides an enriching experience for the citizens and residents of Shawamekh and its surrounding areas…reports Asian Lite News

Retail giant Lulu Group has expanded its presence in Abu Dhabi by opening a new hypermarket at Shawamekh Central Mall in the city’s suburbs.

Humaid Al Marzouqi, Director of Wathba Municipality Center, inaugurated the Hypermarket in the presence of Yusuf Ali MA, Chairman of Lulu Group and other dignitaries.

The latest retail shopping destination also offers enriching shopping experience to the citizens and residents of Shawamekh and its surrounding areas. The shopping centre also boasts of other tenants such as money exchange, ATM, F & B outlets, pharmacy, jewellery shop and other amenities making it a community oriented complete retail destination in the neighbourhood.

Anchor tenant Lulu hypermarket is spread over 85,000 square feet and comes packed with all the favourite shopping features that have made LuLu the top retail chain across UAE. A well-stocked supermarket with the choicest selection of ingredients from across the world, fresh food in the Hot Foods section, bakery, electronics, household need and much more.

Humaid Al Marzouqi, Director of Wathba Municipality Center, said: “we always extends support to projects and initiatives that serve the community, and Lulu, is one of the key supporters to such partnership between all government agencies in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This new hypermarket will surely serve the diverse needs of residents in this locality and also support the local agriculture sector.”

On the occasion Yusuff Ali said, “as part of our expansion plan, we are on the track to open new hypermarkets across UAE in the coming years, which will give more employment to the local work force. In Abu Dhabi Emirate alone, we plan to open 7 new hypermarkets by next year, especially in the suburbs and interior regions, so that our shoppers don’t have to travel long distance for world-class shopping. We are proud to be part of UAE’s overall development and will continue to support sustainable development strategies of our visionary leadership” added Yusuffali. 

Also present were Saifee Rupawala, CEO of Lulu Group, Ashraf Ali MA, Executive Director, T. Abu Baker, Lulu Abu Dhabi Director, Ajay Kumar, Lulu Abu Dhabi Regional Director and other senior officials.

ALSO READ: Rajinikanth Honoured with UAE Golden Visa, Tours Abu Dhabi

ALSO READ: Mango Mania Fest at Lulu

Categories
Abu Dhabi India News UAE News

Rajinikanth Honoured with UAE Golden Visa, Tours Abu Dhabi


Rajinikanth met UAE Minister Sheikh Nahyan and visited the new BAPS Hindu Mandir and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi….reports Asian Lite News

The Abu Dhabi government has awarded Superstar Rajinikanth the prestigious UAE Golden Visa.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), Government of Abu Dhabi handed over the Emirates ID to the legendary actor in a function held at DCT HQ in Abu Dhabi in the presence of Yusuff Ali MA, prominent NRI and Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi Chamber, who facilitated the entire process along with other officials.

“I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious UAE Golden visa from Abu Dhabi Govt. My heartfelt thanks to Abu Dhabi govt. and also to my good friend Mr. Yusuffali MA, CMD of Lulu Group for facilitating this Visa and for all his support” said Rajanikanth after receiving the UAE Golden visa.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), Government of Abu Dhabi handing over UAE Golden Visa to super star Rajinikanth in the presence of Yusuffali MA, CMD of Lulu Group. Also seen are V. Nandakumar, Rejith Radhakrishnan and Biju Kottarathil of Lulu Group

The superstar also called on Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and UAE Minister for Tolerance at his palace in Abu Dhabi. Later Rajinikanth also went to the newly constructed BAPS Hindu Mandir for darshan and to the Sheikh Zayed Graand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Rajinikanth came to Abu Dhabi after wrapping up the shooting of his upcoming movie Vettaiyan. Recently, Rajini was spotted travelling with Yusuffali in the latter’s Rolls Royce in Abu Dhabi, the video of which has gone viral in the social media. Yusuff Ali is the Chairman of Lulu Group, one of the largest business conglomerate in the middle east.

ALSO READ: UAE FM pays tribute to Raisi in Tehran

ALSO READ: India, UAE hold talks on India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor

Categories
-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

Abu Dhabi unveils UAE’s first operational vertiport

The plans announced are set to bolster Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, and kickstart the development of required infrastructure to operationalise air taxis…reports Asian Lite News

UAE’s first operational vertiport for vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) was unveiled in Abu Dhabi yesterday.

Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in collaboration with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and The Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi (DMT), represented by Abu Dhabi Mobility (AD Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi (DMT), unveiled the vertiport at DRIFTx, an international event showcasing smart, autonomous, and sustainable urban mobility across air, land, and sea.

The temporary vertiport facility, constructed in line with the latest industry standards and regulations set by the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), offers a glimpse into Abu Dhabi’s strategy to deliver one of the world’s most advanced sectors for electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) by 2026. AD Mobility will regulate the advanced air mobility sector in Abu Dhabi by working in conjunction with the UAE’s GCAA.

In this context, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, remarked: “Our collaboration with ADIO and AD Mobility underscores our commitment to fostering innovation while maintaining the highest levels of safety and regulatory compliance in the rapidly evolving field of advanced air mobility. Events like DRIFTx play a crucial role in accelerating the development of advanced air mobility in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. By bringing together industry experts, innovators, and stakeholders, DRIFTx facilitates invaluable dialogue and collaboration that propels us toward a future where smart and sustainable urban air transportation is a reality.”

The UAE’s GCAA initiative in establishing the world’s first national regulation on vertiports last year paved the way for advanced air mobility in the UAE, ensuring the availability of safe and suitable infrastructure to accommodate eVTOL aircraft. This bespoke regulation covers design, operations, and certification provisions for vertiports on land and in sea, demonstrating commitment to fostering innovation while prioritizing safety and regulatory compliance in the rapidly evolving aviation landscape.”

The temporary vertiport facility unveiled at DRIFTx was approved based on these rigorous standards, ensuring the highest levels of safety for operations. By pioneering this regulatory framework, the UAE’s GCAA sets an example for regulators worldwide, showcasing a proactive approach to facilitating the safe introduction of emerging technologies.

Abdulla Al Marzouqi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Mobility (AD Mobility), added: “The collaboration between ADIO and AD Mobility will see vertiports setup in strategic locations across Abu Dhabi, including major business hubs and tourism destinations. Once complete, the vertiport network will be a key enabler of Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster. Centred in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, it provides state-of-the art facilities and value-add services within an enabling regulatory environment for companies developing advanced technologies across air, land, and sea mobility applications. This is an exciting time for mobility in Abu Dhabi.”

Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, said: “Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network will mark a significant milestone in transport innovation and the future of mobility. Our partnership with AD Mobility is pivotal for creating robust infrastructure to make smart and autonomous vehicles a reality and part of everyday life, propelling us towards a more connected and efficient future. The network will create extensive commercial opportunities for transport infrastructure companies, creating economic development alongside technological advancement.”

ADIO engaged with experts in the advanced air mobility sector that have gathered in the capital for the inaugural Abu Dhabi Mobily Week and outlined the commercial opportunities available to develop the capital’s vertiport infrastructure network through Abu Dhabi’s public-private partnership (PPP) framework.

The plans announced are set to bolster Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, and kickstart the development of required infrastructure to operationalise air taxis. SAVI offers access to academia, sandboxes, R&D labs, testing and certification facilities, large scale workshops, hangars, manufacturing facilities, and global logistics integration. This has attracted some of the world’s most innovative eVTOL companies, including Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation.

ALSO READ-Abu Dhabi Readies For ‘Ahlan Modi’

Categories
-Top News Abu Dhabi UAE News

Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024: A Global Cultural Extravaganza

This year, the ADIBF pays homage to Egyptian novelist Naguib Mahfouz, celebrating Egypt’s profound influence on Arab thought and creativity. As the Focus Personality, Mahfouz’s legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature to transcend borders and unite diverse communities…reports Asian Lite News

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), is poised to make waves once again as it gears up for its 33rd edition in 2024. Renowned as a pinnacle event for the cultural community and publishing industry worldwide, this year’s fair promises to be bigger and more diverse than ever before.

With over 1,350 exhibitors from an impressive 90 countries, the ADIBF continues to uphold its status as a beacon of cultural exchange and literary exploration. The theme for this edition, “Where the World’s Tales Unfold,” encapsulates the essence of the fair, inviting visitors on a journey through the diverse narratives of global literature.

Taking place at the esteemed Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from April 29th to May 5th, 2024, the event boasts an impressive lineup of 145 new exhibitors and publishing houses, alongside the participation of 12 additional countries. From Greece to Indonesia, these nations contribute to the rich tapestry of cultures showcased at the fair, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global cultural hub.

Central to the ADIBF’s success are the initiatives spearheaded by the ALC to support publishers, exhibitors, and authors. By waiving rental fees for participants for the third consecutive year, the ALC demonstrates its commitment to fostering the growth and sustainability of the publishing sector while promoting the prominence of the Arabic language on the world stage.

Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, emphasizes the fair’s pivotal role in facilitating intercultural exchange and promoting global dialogue. He remarks, “The sustained efforts and excellent support that the book fair has received have cemented its reputation as a global cultural center and a beacon of knowledge.”

This year, the ADIBF pays homage to Egyptian novelist Naguib Mahfouz, celebrating Egypt’s profound influence on Arab thought and creativity. As the Focus Personality, Mahfouz’s legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature to transcend borders and unite diverse communities.

In a rapidly evolving world, the ADIBF remains a steadfast advocate for the preservation and promotion of literary heritage, offering strategic opportunities for growth and innovation in the publishing sector. As the fair continues to evolve, it reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant cultural landscape and fostering global connections through the universal language of storytelling.

ALSO READ-UAE Capital Gears Up To Host Art Fair