Listen to the article
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre organized a dialogue session titled “Cultural Work and Nation Building: Experiences and Milestones” during its participation in the 57th Cairo International Book Fair on January 30, 2026. The cultural dialogue session aimed to deepen intellectual discussions surrounding cultural identity, creativity, and the exploration of modern technologies in the digital space.
The session featured prominent Arab cultural leaders, including His Excellency Mohamed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, Dr. Ahmed Megahed, Director of the Cairo International Book Fair, and Mohamed Rashad, President of the Arab Publishers Association. Media personality Mona Salman moderated the discussion.
Cultural Institutions and National Identity
The speakers highlighted the pivotal role that cultural institutions play in supporting national identity and nation building. They examined various experiences in cultural work and the enhancement of soft power across the Arab world. The discussion emphasized how culture serves as a fundamental pillar in shaping societal awareness and fostering national development.
According to His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, the United Arab Emirates’ experience in the cultural field has become a driving force for comprehensive development in the country. The UAE has successfully transformed cultural diversity into a positive strength, contributing to opening channels of international communication and understanding.
Strategic Vision for Arabic Language Advancement
Dr. bin Tamim outlined the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s role in elevating society culturally and intellectually by expanding knowledge and diversifying educational resources. The centre’s strategic vision focuses on enhancing and empowering the Arabic language while supporting its presence in cultural, creative, and educational fields.
Additionally, the centre works to stimulate scientific research, promote a culture of reading, and teach Arabic to both native and non-native speakers. The organization also develops and encourages creative talents while pioneering digital transformation initiatives in Arabic language education and preservation.
Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre at Cairo Book Fair
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s participation in the Cairo International Book Fair represents a continuation of its efforts to strengthen the Arabic language and establish cooperation between Arab nations in publishing and cultural work. The book fair, organized by the Egyptian General Book Authority, runs from January 21 to February 3, 2026.
Meanwhile, the centre presented an exceptional cultural program during the fair, demonstrating its commitment to enriching cultural discourse and digital publishing throughout the Arab world. The participation underscores the centre’s significant role in the broader Arab cultural landscape and its dedication to fostering collaboration among regional cultural institutions.
Soft Power Through Cultural Exchange
In contrast to traditional diplomatic approaches, the speakers emphasized how cultural exchange serves as an effective tool for building international relationships. Cultural work and nation building initiatives create sustainable bridges between communities, facilitating mutual understanding and respect across borders.
However, the success of such initiatives requires consistent institutional support and long-term strategic planning. The experiences shared during the dialogue session illustrated how sustained investment in cultural infrastructure yields substantial returns in terms of social cohesion and international standing.
The Cairo International Book Fair continues through February 3, 2026, with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre expected to maintain its active participation throughout the event. Further collaborative initiatives between Arab cultural institutions are anticipated to emerge from discussions held during the fair, though specific agreements have not yet been announced.
