Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) is set to launch one of its most important initiatives ever as part of its 30th edition – a series of audiobooks featuring the most prominent works of Arabic prose and literature.
Titled Oyoon Al Nathr Al Araby (Exploring Arab Prose), the new audio series, which will be issued by fair organiser the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), will contain a wealth of literary knowledge and provide significant works of Arabic literature to audiences in a digital format, making it easier for readers to navigate and absorb the rich and diverse content.
The first phase, which has already been launched at ADIBF, contains 50 audiobooks, while the second phase of the initiative is expected to include an additional 50, making a total of 100 audiobooks. The digitised books will not only enhance access to a host of Arabic titles, but will also serve to preserve Arab literacy according to the highest standards.
The series, which will offer two versions of each book – a full edition and a brief summary – aims to connect readers with Arab heritage and increase awareness of the literary treasures of the past. The texts of the series were extracted from ancient Arabic prose books that are comprehensive and mirror the orientations of Arab prose imams in style, subject, and literary genre.
The series offers a variety of rich topics and covers important genres for Arab readers, including literature, history, language, poetry, travel and more. Spanning an extensive historical period, from the 2nd to the 9th Hijri centuries, the collection is intended not just for specialised readers but for the general public. The most notable works covered by this series include Muqaddimah of Ibn Khaldun (Ibn Khaldun’s Prolegomena), Tabakat Fohool Al Shoaraa by Al Jamhi, Ashaar Al Nesaa by Al Marzabny, Kitab al-Aghani (Book of Songs) by Al-Isfahani, Seher Al Balagha wa Serr Al Baraah by Al Thaalby, Al Bayan wa Al Tabyīn by Al Jahiz, Kalila wa Dimna by Ibn Al Muqaffa, Al Imtaa wa Al Moaansah by Al Tawhidi, Al Aakd Al Fared by Ibn Abd Raboh, and others.