The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) has named Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, as the first honouree of its new annual Emirati Pioneers initiative.
The recognition highlights Al Murr’s long-standing contributions to the UAE’s cultural and literary landscape, including his work in preserving national heritage, supporting the Arabic language and literature, and helping to build cultural institutions.
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), the 2026 edition of the book fair will take place from 13 to 18 September, with Al Murr’s career and achievements receiving special attention throughout the event.
The Emirati Pioneers initiative was created to document the journeys of influential Emirati figures and introduce their work to younger generations as examples of cultural and national contribution.
As part of the tribute, ADIBF will feature a dedicated mural highlighting Al Murr’s life and career, along with a special pavilion showcasing his books and rare collections. A documentary about his professional journey will also be screened in both Arabic and English.
The programme will include cultural discussions and events looking at Al Murr’s contributions to literature, journalism, and the development of cultural institutions in the UAE.
A Career Rooted in Literature and Culture
Al Murr has written 12 short story collections, many of which explore social changes and transformations in the UAE over the years. His newspaper articles have also been collected in several books, with two of them included in university curricula in the UAE.
His involvement in the country’s cultural sector stretches back decades. He chaired the Cultural and Scientific Association (NADWA), established in 1987, and later headed the Dubai Cultural Council in 2004.
He was also involved in efforts that led to the establishment of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority in 2008.
Al Murr’s career has also included senior roles in journalism. He served as Editor-in-Chief of Gulf Times and Al Bayan, where his work covered cultural, artistic, and community issues.
Beyond writing and journalism, he has developed a reputation as a collector and documentarian. His interests include rare manuscripts, fine art, and contemporary Arabic calligraphy. He has also worked on documenting the history of postal services in the UAE and Oman.
Supporting Arabic and Cultural Knowledge
Among Al Murr’s current positions are Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award and Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation. He also serves on a number of academic and cultural boards.
Through the Emirati Pioneers initiative, ALC plans to combine conversations, documentation, publishing, and visual storytelling to preserve the stories and achievements of notable Emiratis.
The initiative also reflects the centre’s wider focus on producing, preserving, and sharing knowledge, while adding another dimension to ADIBF’s role as a meeting point for cultural dialogue and exchange.
