Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation lines up special events at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2009

The Foundation will leverage the reach of the event to launch a new culture initiative highlight its prominent programmes such as 'Oktub' and 'Tarjem' during the six-day event.

In addition to organising two book signing ceremonies for 'Trends in Visual Arts in the UAE' by Ali Al Abdan and 'When a Woman Intends' by Sultan Al Zaabi, the Foundation will also host a special event for children 'Ahki Lakoum' giving away instant prizes to winners.

To be held from 17-22 March, the 19th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will witness the participation of a large number of publishing houses from the Middle East and North Africa.

Yasser Hareb, Vice President - Culture, said:

"The Foundation constantly seeks opportunities to showcase its initiatives at events that highlight culture and literature. Such endeavours are part of our objective to nurture the knowledge component and strengthen the cultural foundations of the Arab world. The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is an ideal platform for showcasing our key initiatives such as 'Oktub' that aims to encourage aspiring writers in the Arab world, and 'Tarjem' that comprises several projects and programmes aimed at promoting the translation movement in the Arab world."

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2009 will also witness the Foundation showcasing its translated works and interacting with various publishing houses in Asia and Africa.

In addition to facilitating the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation to connect with a broad spectrum of publishers from Asia and Africa, the Abu Dhabi book fair will also set the stage for concerted exchange of information on the publishing rights of different countries for exploring potential literary initiatives.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation works relentlessly to establish communication links with various individuals and organisations in culture across the Arab world through participation in key forums as part of its ambitious multi-pronged strategy.