Museums become story spaces as Abu Dhabi launches children’s reading events
Museums across Abu Dhabi are being transformed into venues where children can explore Arabic literature, as part of a new initiative by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC).
Under the Kalima Reading Club, the ALC is organising five events running from 7 October to 28 November 2026 as part of its ‘We Read for Children’ programme. The initiative pairs Arabic storytelling sessions with creative workshops tailored for children aged 6 to 12.
Programme structure and goals
Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of the ALC, said the initiative reflects the centre’s broader philosophy of human development. The programme draws on selected stories from the ALC’s Esdarat programme and the Kalima Project for Translation. Children participate through dialogue, interactive activities and hands-on exercises, which help build their listening, expression and creativity skills.
Al Tunaiji described the initiative as a sustainable investment in human capital that begins in early childhood. “We are aiming to safeguard cultural identity, advance the Arabic language, and nurture a generation that is aware, equipped with the tools of the future, and capable of channelling its imagination towards creative horizons,” he said.
Locations and schedule
Two of the five events took place in October at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, on 7 and 10 October. Louvre Abu Dhabi will host author Dr Fatima Al Mazrouei for a reading session on 31 October, and will return on 28 November for the closing session. The programme also includes a visit to Gracia Farm on 15 November.
By staging stories at the emirate’s cultural and natural attractions, the initiative gives children and their families a way to experience reading outside traditional settings. In the centre’s approach, books become a gateway to both knowledge and enjoyment. The programme also supports the principles of the ‘Year of Family’.
Broader impact and vision
Al Tunaiji added that the initiative “evolved into a strategic arm that helps shape the future and ensure that Arabic remains present in the minds of today’s children and tomorrow’s leaders.” He said this further cements Abu Dhabi’s role as an intellectual and cultural capital and a beacon of knowledge for future generations.
The events form part of the Community Campaign to Support Sustainable Reading. They reflect the ALC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national and cultural identity, empower the Arabic language and ensure knowledge reaches all segments of society. They also support the UAE’s vision of a cohesive society with a deep connection to Arabic and a commitment to sustainable development.
