Abu Dhabi and Amazon Launch Landmark Digital Arabic Library
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has partnered with Amazon to build the most comprehensive digital Arabic library to date. Announced at the Congress of Arabic and Creative Industries, the initiative will make thousands of Arabic-language books available in eBook and audiobook formats over the next three years. This effort aims to revolutionize access to Arabic literature and strengthen its global presence.
Through a dedicated storefront, millions of readers will be able to explore Arabic cultural content in one place for the first time. The platform will feature titles from across the Arab world, supported by Amazon Ads, AWS cloud computing, and the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s publishing expertise. In addition, Audible will provide access to a wide range of Arabic audiobooks, enriching the experience with premium audio storytelling.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak stated, “This collaboration represents a milestone in our mission to elevate Arabic literature and champion our national language. Leveraging Amazon’s global reach and expertise, the partnership will provide a gateway for readers everywhere to experience the depth and diversity of written Arabic. It is a pivotal step towards embedding Arabic culture and creativity within the global cultural dialogue, ensuring it continues to thrive for generations to come.”
Combining Technology with Cultural Heritage
Ronaldo Mouchawar, Vice President of Amazon for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, emphasized the significance of the project, saying, “The Arabic language is a pillar of our culture and identity, carrying centuries of knowledge, creativity, and connection. By collaborating with the Department of Culture and Tourism, we aim to celebrate and expand access to this rich heritage. Amazon began as a destination for books, and today we unite our stores, Amazon Ads solutions, and AWS cloud services to enable the most comprehensive Digital Arabic Library on Amazon. Together, we’re combining technology and culture to inspire readers and creators across the Arab world, sharing the beauty of Arabic globally.”
The initiative aligns with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s mission to promote Arabic readership and preserve cultural heritage. Furthermore, it embraces modern reading formats such as Kindle and Audible, ensuring younger generations can engage with Arabic literature in accessible and appealing ways. With more than 400 million Arabic speakers worldwide, the project taps into a vast and underserved global audience.
Supporting Publishers and Authors Across MENA
Over the next three years, the Arabic Language Centre will work with publishers from across the region to digitize print titles and expand the availability of Arabic content online. Amazon will highlight these works across its global platforms, providing unprecedented visibility for publishers and authors. As a result, Arabic writers will have new opportunities to connect with readers both regionally and internationally.
Beyond accessibility, the program will offer publishers technical and operational support to adapt to the rapid growth of digital publishing. By integrating advanced distribution channels with cultural expertise, the initiative aims to build an ecosystem where Arabic creativity can thrive sustainably. This collaboration sets a foundation for future growth, ensuring Arabic literature continues to evolve and reach global audiences in meaningful ways.
