The 27th edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) will begin next Wednesday, featuring more than half a million titles from across the world.

The ADIBF 2017 features more than 800 cultural activities, ranging from the life and achievements of Ibn Arabi, to the cultural and intellectual achievements of China.

Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) announced the programme for the ADIBF, which is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Saif Saeed Ghobash, director general of TCA Abu Dhabi, said 35,148 square metres of space will be jam-packed with 1,320 exhibitors, which is an increase of 60 exhibitors from last year.

He noted the exhibitors will be representing 65 countries and the publication of more than 500,000 titles from more than 30 languages.

“I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for his great and unlimited support for the growing cultural movement in the UAE, and his efforts in supporting the Sheikh Zayed Book Award.”

The award was launched by His Highness in 2006, in recognition of His Highness the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and to celebrate Arab culture, human intellect creativity from all over the world.

Abdullah Majid Al Ali, acting executive director of the National Library at TCA highlighted the ‘Kalima’ project, as part of TCA’s strategy in consolidating Arab culture and the publishing industry.

“Today, Kalima celebrates its 10th anniversary and great achievements over the years. Within the framework of its role as a pioneering Arab cultural project and a bridge connecting the different cultures of the world and Arab culture, the ‘Kalima’ project will also be organising the 5th Abu Dhabi International Translation Conference.”

Mohammed Al Shehhi, director of research and publication at TCA, said: “This year’s programme, of which the main objective is to establish Abu Dhabi as a cultural and publishing destination, will undoubtedly provide visitors with exceptional educational opportunities and serve as a platform for making successful deals.”

The event includes professional programme for publishers, creativity corner for the younger generation, the e-publishing corner, the show kitchen, book-signing events and the illustrators’ corner.

Through its various activities, ADIF seeks to develop and promote the publishing industry in the UAE and the region, through an effective Arab model for protection of intellectual property rights.