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4/21/25, 10:31 AM MBRF organizes ‘Arab Reading Clubs Forum 2025’ in partnership with Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Center | Web Release
His Excellency further stated: “Through the ‘Knowledge Lounge’ initiative, which has now surpassed a decade of
activities, we have strived to promote reading as a central focus of our efforts. Since its inception, we have been

steadfast in our commitment to expanding our impact both within and outside the UAE by launching impactful reading
clubs. Presently, the reach of the ‘Knowledge Lounge’ extends across the UAE, Jordan, and Australia, as well as to a

wide network of Arab readers around the world. Furthermore, the lounge groups cumulatively read over 180 books each
year, with more than 200 knowledge sessions held annually, making it one of the region’s most prominent sustainable

reading initiatives.”

H.E. Bin Huwaireb concluded by noting that the initiative is not restricted to recreational or general reading. Instead, it
seeks to cultivate a knowledge-based and critical approach that enriches the reader while fostering reflection,

questioning, and contemplation. It also aims to transform the reader from a passive recipient to an active contributor in
the creation of meaning, which is one of the key goals of ‘Knowledge Lounge’ and its various clubs.

H.E. Dr. Ali bin Tamim said: “We are delighted to partner with MBRF in organizing the ‘Arab Reading Clubs Forum
2025.’ It is commendable that the latest edition of the forum is dedicated to discussing the shortlisted novels of the

International Prize for Arabic Fiction, of which we are a proud sponsor. This remarkable accolade aims to recognize
promising talents in the contemporary Arabic literary landscape, enhancing their visibility and readership.”

His Excellency further stated: “The inspiring vision of the UAE’s wise leadership has successfully positioned Arabic

reading as a key priority in our society. Reading is now being embraced as an integral facet of day-to-day life, especially
among the youth and future generations.”

H.E. Bin Tamim also noted that reading clubs and literary salons have long been a part of the nation’s cultural fabric,

highlighting the Al Multaqa Literary Salon, launched in 1999 as a notable example. His Excellency stated that while
these platforms differ in structure and management, they all contribute to the promotion of reading in a positive and

effective manner. Some are led by individuals within the community, while others are managed by official and national
entities.

Furthermore, His Excellency praised the outstanding efforts of the Kalima Reading Club, which represented ALC in
hosting this event. The club boasts an extensive legacy, especially regarding its Kalima Translation Project, which has

facilitated 1,300 translations in 10 categories across 27 languages to date.

H.E. Bin Tamim remarked: “The Kalima Reading Club was established in 2018 as a community-oriented cultural
initiative aimed at serving society and enhancing the use of the Arabic language. Today, the club continues to grow in

membership, further expanding to include the ‘Kalima School Club,’ ‘Kalima University Club,’ ‘Kalima Employees
Club,’ and many other reading groups.”

The forum, organized into three stages, featured critical discussions that explored the artistic and intellectual aspects of

the selected literary works, aligning with the forum’s goals of fostering a culture of collective reading and developing

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