Al Dhafra Book Festival Draws Praise from Publishers, Showcasing Regional and Cultural Diversity
Al Dhafra, The Gulf Observer: The fifth edition of the Al Dhafra Book Festival, organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), has received high acclaim from publishers, many of whom are participating in the event for the first time. The festival has been hailed as a vibrant intellectual gathering, offering a platform for publishers to connect with new audiences while presenting culture and knowledge in a modern and innovative format.
This year’s festival witnessed a significant increase in participation, with 100 local and Arab publishing houses showcasing 50,000 diverse titles, marking a notable expansion from the previous edition.
Celebrating Regional Identity and Culture
Mohammed Bassem Al Shaar, owner of Doroob Al Marefa, commended the beauty of the Al Dhafra region and the festival’s excellent organisation. He noted the growing visitor turnout, with many local residents purchasing unique educational tools for children, including audiobooks, pottery machines, and interactive learning tools.
Similarly, Ehab Al Rifai of New Azbakia Publishing and Distribution emphasised the importance of understanding and tailoring content to the needs of Al Dhafra’s residents. “The festival’s remarkable organisation, combined with its cultural and musical events, plays a vital role in enriching the region’s cultural landscape,” Al Rifai said. His selection included rare books, vintage Emirati heritage records, and classic publications such as Majid and Mickey, which evoked nostalgia among attendees.
Spotlight on Emirati Literature and Creativity
Adnan Al Hajj, owner of Tanween Publishing and Distribution, described the festival as a cornerstone for cultural exchange and knowledge-sharing. He highlighted the popularity of novels by Emirati women authors, including Honour of Her Memory by Azza Al Kaabi, Room No. 11 by Sumaya Al Marzouqi, and The Little Writer’s Notebook, among festival attendees.
Meanwhile, Abdullah Salah from Al Ummah Bookshop shared his excitement about participating in the festival after years of success at the Al Ain Book Festival. He noted the exceptional demand for novels, particularly romantic works by Emirati author Fateem, whose books Happy Coincidence and Captivated by Your Love, written in the Emirati dialect, have captivated readers.
A Platform for Cultural Exchange
Publishers agreed that Al Dhafra Book Festival stands out for its flawless organisation, cultural vibrancy, and ability to bring literature and art closer to the public. The event not only enriches the cultural movement but also bridges connections between diverse audiences and literary creators.
As the festival concluded, participants lauded the event as a celebration of regional identity, innovation, and the enduring love of literature.
