Prominent Emirati authors and global thought leaders have converged at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) this year, bringing their latest titles that tackle some of today’s most relevant themes. The event showcases a diverse range of voices, including new age guru Dr. Deepak Chopra, diplomat Dr. Ahmed Al Matrooshi, and poet Fatima Al Mazrouei.

Credit: Aletihad

In an interview with Aletihad, Dr. Chopra praised the ADIBF as an “incredible gathering of minds and cultures.” During the fair, he discussed his 96th book, ‘Digital Dharma: How AI Can Elevate Spiritual Intelligence and Personal Well-Being.’ He emphasized the potential of large language models to enhance understanding of consciousness and identity, stating, “AI can help us perceive the universe more clearly and point us toward the fundamental truth of who we are.”

The fair also features significant contributions from Emirati authors. Dr. Ahmed Al Matrooshi highlighted his latest publication, which addresses the civilizational and humanitarian aspects of the UAE’s foreign policy. He explained that his book provides substantial evidence of the UAE’s role in delivering humanitarian aid worldwide, particularly to impoverished countries. “This book contains a wealth of evidence and proof confirming that the role of the UAE in the world is a humanitarian and civilizational one,” he said.

This marks Dr. Al Matrooshi’s fourth participation in the fair, where he has previously showcased works focused on the UAE’s foreign policy. Drawing from his experience as a diplomat and ambassador, he described his publications as a natural extension of his professional journey in representing the UAE abroad.

Emirati writer and poet Fatima Al Mazrouei, who leads the Historical Archives Department at the National Library and Archives, shared insights into her latest young adult novel. This book explores the dangers of artificial intelligence and its effects on human values and emotions. Al Mazrouei noted that the narrative revolves around a seemingly ordinary game that leads characters into a frightful world that challenges their principles. “The topic of artificial intelligence is beautiful on the surface, but it is frightening at its core,” she conveyed.

Additionally, the youngest Emirati writer at the fair, Mohammed Khaled Al Hammadi, a Grade 7 student, is inspiring young readers with his comic series “The Adventures of Speed.” Al Hammadi proudly launched the second volume of his series, describing it as a comedy-adventure for children that carries an educational message about self-confidence being the true superpower. He expressed his joy in seeing his book on the shelves and connecting with readers, stating, “It makes me happy to see people smile when they get my book.”

Al Hammadi encouraged other children to believe in themselves and to read what they love, as he believes that is where the best ideas originate.