The initiative is facilitated by a financial grant with the objective of fostering a culture of reading among students 

Abu Dhabi, May 26, 2024: About 65,000 books from the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair have been distributed to libraries at 220 schools across the UAE. The initiative, under the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, facilitated by a financial grant, aims to support school libraries in fostering a culture of reading among students. 

The titles and publications were purchased from 77 publishing houses that participated in the book fair in an effort to enrich students’ knowledge and expand the schools’ educational resources. 

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi says, “The Arabic language, with its diverse and rich literary heritage, is more than just a means of communication. Our language is a powerful and inclusive tool for innovative and critical thinking, enabling us to unite in our thoughts and words. This vital and generous grant from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, will encourage reading and the protection of our language, help us foster deeper understanding, and bridge the many cultures and people who speak it, ensuring that our collective wisdom continues to guide future generations.”  

Dr Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) says, “This grant forms another milestone in the long and continuous journey initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, to support the publishing and knowledge sectors, and ensure that books continue to be held in the same esteem.”