The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 is underway in its 34th edition, running until May 5 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This year's central theme — "Knowledge Illuminates Our Community" — frames reading as a uniting force that empowers individuals, builds connections, and sparks inspiration across cultures.
Thousands of visitors and industry professionals from around the world have gathered throughout the week to celebrate literature, exchange creative ideas, and engage in wide-ranging intellectual discussions.
A Major International Literary Event
ADIBF has firmly established itself as one of the world's leading literary gatherings. The fair draws together publishers, authors, translators, and creative talent under one roof for a dense week of programming designed to promote reading and the sharing of knowledge.
This year's edition welcomes three distinguished guests: acclaimed historical fiction author Conn Iggulden, historian Professor Julian Jackson, and political analyst Dr. Roy Casagranda — each bringing depth and breadth to the fair's speaker lineup.
A Rich Week of Cultural Programming
The ADIBF programme offers visitors an extensive range of cultural and literary events, including poetry readings, art displays, translation panels, and industry workshops. The schedule also extends to cinema, photography, and culinary arts workshops.
Children are well catered for with dedicated interactive activities in a specially designed section. The World's Cuisine programme takes visitors on an exploration of global cultures through food and language — a fitting reflection of the fair's international character.
Aligned with the UAE's Year of Community
The 2025 edition runs in step with the UAE's Year of Community, reinforcing dialogue and cultural exchange as pillars of national life. The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair continues to serve as a shared space where writers meet publishers, readers encounter new ideas, and meaningful cross-cultural conversations take place.
Daily opening hours run from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. For the latest schedules and event updates, follow @abudhabibookfair on social media.
