ADIBF’s Theme: ‘Turn the Page and Read the World’ Reflects Culture’s Role in Times of Transformation
ADIBF’s theme ‘Turn the Page and Read the World’ reflects the role of culture in an age of profound transformations. — Faizan Hashmi, August 20, 2026
Book fair themes act as concise cultural statements, encapsulating the vision of the organizing institution and defining their global standing. From this perspective, the theme for the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2026), ‘Turn the Page and Read the World’, stands out for its relevance in an era of change.
‘Turn the Page’ signifies a transition from one phase to another, emphasizing learning, reflection, and continuous development. It metaphorically represents progress in knowledge production, reading, publishing, and creativity.
‘Read the World’ encourages expanding reading beyond books to include ideas, cultures, experiences, and scientific advancements. This invites dialogue, cultural exchange, and a shared language of knowledge that connects nations despite differences.
The theme resonates with ADIBF’s evolution over 35 years from a publishing event to a global platform merging culture with economy, education, technology, and diplomacy. It attracts participants from 95 countries, hosting nearly 1,500 events, reflecting its leading role in enriching cultural dialogue.
In the context of the UAE designating 2026 as ‘Year of Family’, the theme underscores the social value of reading for building knowledgeable families, cohesive societies, and capable generations with critical thinking skills and a global outlook. Culture is positioned as a long-term investment in people, the true wealth of any development project.
The selection of renowned scholar Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi as the fair’s Focus Personality and ‘Don Quixote’ as the Book of the World aligns perfectly with this vision. Al Farahidi contributed significantly to Arabic language and linguistics, while ‘Don Quixote’ is a timeless global literary masterpiece.
