Library corners at the Dubai airport arrival and departure lounges come to the rescue of passengers who have to wait long hours for their flights.

Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dubai Airports for the project which is due for completion by March, to coincide with the UAE’s National Month of Reading.

The MoU outlines Dubai Culture’s commitment to provide e-books and library corners for passengers travelling through Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports, in addition to mini-libraries, books and other reading services.

Dubai Culture will also develop complementary programmes that promote the UAE’s cultural and national identity, to sustain the momentum of Dubai’s UAE National Strategy for Reading 2016-2026.

Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “We are confident that our joint efforts with Dubai Culture will further cement Dubai’s reputation as a cultural destination, and highlight the value we place on reading: the foundation of intellectual achievement.

The city is renowned for maintaining its unique heritage, while also nurturing a knowledge-based economy that has seen it grow into a modern, cosmopolitan capital. By making reading services accessible throughout the airport, we aim to share this spirit and demonstrate our commitment to the millions of passengers we welcome through Dubai Airports every year.”

Saeed Al Nabouda, acting director-general at Dubai Culture, said: “Dubai Culture is planning a number of initiatives to support the UAE National Strategy for Reading 2016-2026. These initiatives focus on establishing the UAE and Dubai as inspiring hubs of education, learning and knowledge.”