Abu dhabi: The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), opening on 13 September 2026, has chosen Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi as the event's Focus Personality. This decision highlights a cultural vision that values heritage as an influential force for the future, reviving the inspiring intellectual legacy of a historic figure.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Farahidi was a pivotal figure in Arab-Islamic civilization, reorganizing the Arabic language with a scientific approach. He authored "Kitab Al-Ayn," the first Arabic dictionary organized phonetically, founded the science of Arabic prosody, and contributed to linguistic and methodological thought, which have remained a reference for over twelve centuries.
The selection of Al Farahidi gains further significance within the cultural project led by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC). The 'Focus Personality' concept at ADIBF aims to honor prominent figures and reintroduce them to new generations as contributors to global knowledge.
Previous editions of the fair have celebrated figures such as the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Ibn Khaldun, Naguib Mahfouz, and Ibn Sina. This series presents Arab culture as an integral part of the global dialogue, linking historical achievements to present and future challenges. In this context, Al Farahidi is an ideal choice.
Today, as the world experiences rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, big data, and computational linguistics, Al Farahidi's approach centuries ago to conceptualize language as a system to be analyzed and understood according to precise rules becomes relevant. Celebrating Al Farahidi confirms the scientific legacy of the Arabic language and positions it as a partner in the digital future.
The designation reflects a broader Emirati vision of cultural stewardship, with major international book fairs serving as platforms for shaping cultural narratives and fostering civilizational dialogue. The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair places the 'Focus Personality' within a cultural discourse that includes the 'Book of the World,' the Guest of Honour, and various intellectual panels.
This approach underscores the ALC's belief that culture is a strategic investment in people. Choosing Al Farahidi as this year's Focus Personality sends a message to researchers, students, technology developers, and publishers. While celebrating historic achievements initiates a linguistic renaissance, it must be sustained by drawing on that heritage to drive modern innovation.
Al Farahidi left a legacy of linguistic scholarship and a method of systematic thought. His selection as the Focus Personality celebrates the idea that civilizations interpreting their heritage through the future's lens are best positioned to shape their future.