Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Bringing their latest titles that shed light on the some of the most relevant themes today, prominent Emirati authors and global thought leaders have gathered at this year’s Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF).
From new age guru Dr. Deepak Chopra to diplomat Dr. Ahmed Al Matrooshi and poet Fatima Al Mazrouei, the book fair hosts some of the brightest minds in various fields.
Speaking to Aletihad, renowned Indian-American author Chopra lauded the ADIBF as an “incredible gathering of minds and cultures.”
“I hope others come to experience the energy, insight, and inspiration the fair offers,” he said.
At the fair, Chopra spoke about his 96th book, ‘Digital Dharma: How AI Can Elevate Spiritual Intelligence and Personal Well-Being.'
In a keynote address during one of the sessions, he explored how large language models — drawing from science, philosophy, and spirituality — can deepen people’s understanding of consciousness and identity.
“AI can help us perceive the universe more clearly and point us toward the fundamental truth of who we are,” he said.
In parallel with international voices, Aletihad spoke to Emirati authors who contributed significant literary works to the event’s showcase.
Dr. Ahmed Al Matrooshi highlighted the release of his latest publication addressing the civilisational and humanitarian dimension of the UAE's foreign policy.
"This book contains a wealth of evidence and proof confirming that the role of the UAE in the world is a humanitarian and civilisational one. It provides a great deal of humanitarian aid to the peoples of the world, especially to poor countries. It also works in a humanitarian capacity in these countries, for example, by establishing hospitals, providing medicines and doctors, and also providing and building shelters and hospitals in many of these countries,” he said.
This role, he added, is deeply rooted in the nation’s identity: "When you look for those who are there to help and stand with these countries, you’ll find that the UAE is in the front row."
This is the fourth time that Dr. Al Matrooshi is participating in the fair, where he had showcased many of his publications mainly on the UAE’s foreign policy.
“Having served as both a diplomat and ambassador in several countries, this body of work is a natural extension of my professional experience representing the UAE abroad,” he said.
Emirati writer and poet Fatima Al Mazrouei, who heads the Historical Archives Department at the National Library and Archives, talked about her latest young adult novel that explores the dangers of artificial intelligence and its impact on human values and emotions.
“The novel talks about a seemingly ordinary game, but they enter a different and frightening world that forces them to do things that go against their principles,” Al Mazrouei said.
This book, she added, is intended to raise awareness among the youth and their parents about the negative effects of technology on mental and social well-being.
“The topic of artificial intelligence is beautiful on the surface, but it is frightening at its core,” she said.
The Youngest UAE Writer at the Fair
Mohammed Khaled Al Hammadi, a Grade 7 student, is inspiring young readers with his comic series "The Adventures of Speed."
Al Hammadi — the youngest Emirati writer at ADIBF 2025 —proudly launched the second volume of his series this year.
“It’s a comedy-adventure for kids with an educational message — self-confidence is the real superpower,” he said.
In the new volume, Al Hammadi introduces a fire-powered character Shlamz, a name inspired by Japanese anime. “I love manga like Naruto and Dragon Ball. They pushed me to create my own stories,” he said.
Seeing his book on the shelves and connecting with readers has been a proud moment for Al Hammadi. “It makes me happy to see people smile when they get my book.”
In a message to other children, the student-author said: “Believe in yourself, and read what you love. That’s where the best ideas come from.”
