35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair Opens, With Qatar Taking Part

Abu Dhabi, September 13, 2026 : The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair kicked off at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi on Sunday.

Event Brings Together 95 Countries Through September 18

Held under the theme "Let's Turn the Page and Read the World," the fair runs through September 18 and brings together exhibitors from 95 countries, including the State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Culture. The Ministry is showcasing a collection of publications reflecting aspects of Qatar's cultural profile.

Qatar's Participation Seen as Opportunity for Cultural Projection

Director of the Libraries Department at the Ministry of Culture and Director of the Doha International Book Fair, Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, said the participation represents a vital opportunity to project Qatari cultural production and modern publications, while opening new prospects for collaboration with Gulf and Arab cultural institutions.

Part of Ongoing Cultural Engagement Strategy

Al Buainain said Qatar's presence at the fair stems from a broader pattern of participation in major Arab and international cultural exhibitions, aimed at showcasing Qatari cultural heritage alongside its cultural initiatives and publications. He added that the goal is to share expertise with cultural institutions and stakeholders in the book and publishing industry, while strengthening cultural engagement between Qatar and various cultural enterprises, institutions, and publishing houses participating in the fair.

Ministry Aims to Support Publishing Industry, Local Writers

Al Buainain affirmed that participation in such events underscores the Ministry's vision of supporting the book and publishing industry and encouraging Qatari writers and innovators to reach a wider audience. He highlighted the role of international book fairs in strengthening communication among publishers, authors, and readers, while offering the chance to explore diverse literary and intellectual experiences.

Fair Offers Platform for Cultural Dialogue

He described the event as a leading cultural platform bringing together writers, publishers, and intellectuals, providing space for dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Its cultural program features panel discussions, lectures, and workshops that enrich the cultural scene and celebrate books and the publishing industry.

Ministry Continues Global Cultural Presence

Al Buainain emphasized that the Ministry continues its presence at cultural events abroad to build cultural ties with friendly nations, foster cooperation, and project Qatari cultural products as part of the country's broader civilizational and humanitarian presence.

Balkan Culture Honored as Guest of Honour

This year's edition features Balkan Culture as its Guest of Honour, in collaboration with the Republic of North Macedonia. The fair also celebrates renowned scholar Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi as its "Focus Personality," and Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote" as its "Book of the World."

Source: QNA