Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre Showcases Arabic Literature and Innovation at London Book Fair 2026
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is making a significant impact at the 55th edition of the London Book Fair, running from 10th to 12th March 2026 at Olympia London.
The Centre’s pavilion features a curated selection of important titles from its Kalima Project for Translation and the Esdarat initiative for Arabic publishing. In alignment with its ongoing digital transformation drive, the pavilion also showcases e-books and audiobooks; visitors can conveniently download these publications through QR codes that lead to the Digital Arabic Library. This library, recently launched through a collaboration with Amazon, provides access to thousands of digital works, expanding the global reach of Arabic literature and amplifying Arab culture around the world.
Throughout the fair, the Centre’s programme includes meetings and discussions with leaders from the global creative industries and publishing sectors. These engagements are designed to foster cooperation with international publishers, reinforce existing partnerships with British and international publishing houses, and facilitate the forging of new alliances. A pivotal part of the agenda is the signing of several copyright agreements between the Kalima Project for Translation and global publishing houses, signalling a new phase of collaboration and knowledge exchange.
The ALC’s pavilion will also be home to a diverse cultural programme, staged in partnership with leading organisations. Notably, sessions will spotlight the Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA), which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, as well as the innovative ‘From Kalima to the World’ project. Launched in 2025, this initiative is dedicated to the translation of Arabic foundational works and literature into other languages, aiming to build bridges for cultural dialogue and highlight the richness of Arab human heritage.
Further enriching the pavilion’s offerings, sessions are being organised by the Zayed National Museum and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, reflecting a deep commitment to interdisciplinary knowledge and cultural exchange.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
