The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT) has announced the Digital Arabic Library , a strategic partnership with audiobook and e-book publisher Arabookverse (ABV). Unveiled during ALC’s participation in the 77th Frankfurt Book Fair, this ambitious, multi-year project is set to make thousands of Arabic-language publications available in both digital and audio formats to readers around the world.
This new agreement led by the Centre will provide millions of readers with access to thousands of editions of Arabic printed, electronic, and audio publications. It reflects the ALC’s strategy to effect a qualitative shift in the digitisation of Arabic books and support the Arabic publishing industry through creative initiatives and pioneering projects, including the quality programmes offered by the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
The initiative seeks to bridge the current divide in access to digital content, as Arabic-language content has historically had less presence in this space which has been growing rapidly in the West. The Digital Arabic Library will ensure wider access to Arabic knowledge whilst safeguarding cultural identity and fostering intercultural dialogue.
This latest project showcases once again the quality and potential of Arabic content in the context of international markets, following ALC’s recently signed strategic agreement with Amazon in Abu Dhabi. It also supports the Centre’s mission to strengthen the Arabic creative economy, inaugurating a sustainable digital infrastructure for future generations. Crucially, the new partnership will enrich the Arabic publishing, audio, and digital production ecosystem by stimulating innovation, strengthening technological partnerships, protecting intellectual property rights, and expanding the scope of Arabic content globally.
His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, said: “We at the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre have been keen to harness our advanced expertise in the publishing industry and leverage it to enhance the presence of Arabic content in the global digital space. This project will provide new and innovative channels to facilitate access to Arabic cultural content for readers wherever they may be, which is particularly important since the percentage of Arabic content available online is small compared to the number of Arabic speakers. This will play an important role in supporting ALC’s aims to break down barriers to accessing the wide array of Arabic literature being produced today and strengthen awareness on the international stage.”
Ali Abdel-Moneim, Co-Founder and CEO of Arabookverse, said: “We are proud of our partnership with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, a pioneer in promoting the Arabic language through its unique efforts and initiatives that serve to consolidate Arabic culture and connect readers and learners wherever they are.”
In order to oversee the workflow process, ALC will form a high-level steering committee. This will also include advisory committees tasked with ensuring the quality of the content selected and compliance with the Centre’s high standards. The project will be key in contributing to a qualitative shift in the Digital Arabic Library and in placing it at the forefront of the international cultural scene.
