Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
In a dedicated session on its sixth day, the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) explored the 50 most important Arabic language novels of the 21st Century, showcasing the evolving literary landscape of the Arab world, and the role of Arab readers in shaping literary appreciation.
The session featured contributions from leading critics and academics.
Dr. Mohammed Abu Al Fadl Badran, Professor and Literary Critic, affirmed the novel’s central place in literature and called the reader “the true hero”, emphasising that the act of reading completes the literary experience. He praised the blending of narrative, dialogue, poetry and prose in modern Arabic fiction, and highlighted the role of translation in cultural exchange, citing the global demand for works by Naguib Mahfouz.
Dr. Badran called for authentic storytelling that reflects the Arab experience, urging readers to select narratives that present a genuine regional voice.
Dr. Haytham Al Haj Ali, Professor of Modern Arabic Literature, said that literary awards play a vital role in motivating writers and nurturing creativity, citing Mahfouz’s renewed output following recognition. He noted that many novels from the region convey themes of diaspora, exile and emotional struggle, and stressed that the reader and writer are equally essential to the storytelling process.
Saeed Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), commended contributions to Arabic literature and reaffirmed ALC’s commitment to globalising Arabic literary output.
“We’ve selected the 50 most important novels of the 21st century to help Arabic literature reach a wider international audience,” he said, also referencing a related initiative showcasing 101 famous Arabic poems.
Al Tunaiji noted that the selection process was rigorous and based on cultural and literary impact, not awards or fame alone. He acknowledged the lack of robust literary criticism in the Arab world as a challenge, saying, “In other cultures, clear literary standards exist. We need to build similar frameworks in our region.”
Organised by ALC under the theme "Knowledge Illuminates Our Community", the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair runs until May 5 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, bringing together global writers, publishers and content creators under five programme themes: Society, Fantasy, Sustainability, Arab Sciences, and Artificial Intelligence.
