Abu Dhabi, UAE - 27 January 2022: The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, has participated in the ‘Translating from Arabic as a Bridge for Civilisations: Arabic Books to Illuminate the World’ conference during the esteemed Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF) this week.

Now in its 53rd edition, the 12-day fair put together by the General Egyptian Book Organisation, runs until 6 February at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre.

The Centre’s agenda for the ‘Translating from Arabic’ conference included three workshops: ‘Arabic Books in International Libraries: Reality and Ambition’, ‘Challenges and Prospects of Translating from Arabic’, and ‘Demands of Foreign Publishers and our Nominations’.

His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, also delivered a keynote address at the opening session, which gave delegates an overview of the ALC and its objective to further develop and advance Arabic as a language of science, culture, and creativity, and strengthen cross-cultural communication.

He touched on the ALC’s flagship initiative, the Kalima Project, which translates publications into Arabic from various languages to provide more options to Arab readers. He explained the important role Kalima is playing in revitalising the translation movement across the Arab world and establishing strong partnerships with international authors and publishing houses.

He said: “We are thrilled to be participating in the Cairo International Book Fair, as it is an exceptional platform for facilitating exchange of expertise as well as exploring opportunities and solutions to the most pressing challenges facing the publishing industry today. The COVID-19 pandemic has cast a heavy shadow over the industry, and this event is all the more significant and necessary, bringing together renowned local and international experts and publishing houses under the same roof. With that in mind, the ALC set a busy agenda packed with events that cater to diverse audiences, exhibitors, and dignitaries, while keeping pace with the rapidly evolving global cultural scene.”

HE bin Tamin also applauded the tremendous efforts being made across the Arab literary industry to advance the Arabic language and Arab culture globally. In his comments, he celebrated the late Dr. Gaber Asfour, a prominent Egyptian intellectual, writer, and academic researcher who served as Chairman of the National Translation Council, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Culture, and Egypt’s Minister of Culture – who left behind a remarkable legacy of work to actively promote Arabic language on the world stage.

The ALC Chairman underlined the importance of close cooperation between various institutions and authorities tasked with supporting the language development, and highlighted opportunities that the Cairo International Book Fair presents to promote its cause.

ALC is also showcasing publications from its Kalima Project for translation and is delivering a series of events and interactive seminars, including ‘Introduction to the Research Scholarship Programme at the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’, the Arabic Language Retreat, and ‘A Word by the Public’, among others.