Abu Dhabi’s push to strengthen Arabic literacy among pupils is gathering pace as the Kalima School Reading Club rolls out its 2026 cultural agenda across government schools, widening access to books, author engagements and structured reading sessions.
The programme, led by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is being delivered in partnership with the Emirates Schools Establishment, which oversees public education across the federation. Officials say the initiative is designed to deepen students’ relationship with Arabic literature while fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness at an early age.
Kalima, long known for its translation projects and support for publishing, has in recent years broadened its mandate to include school-focused reading campaigns. Through the School Reading Club, curated titles are distributed to participating schools, with educators trained to guide discussions and integrate the texts into classroom activities. The 2026 plan builds on earlier phases by increasing the number of participating schools and introducing interactive workshops with writers, illustrators and translators.
Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, has previously underscored the importance of embedding reading habits within the formal education system rather than limiting them to extracurricular events. He has described reading as a cornerstone of cultural identity and intellectual development, particularly at a time when digital consumption competes for young people’s attention. Programme coordinators say this year’s agenda reflects that philosophy, combining traditional book discussions with multimedia components designed to resonate with pupils accustomed to online platforms.
Emirates Schools Establishment officials have framed the collaboration as part of a broader effort to enhance Arabic language proficiency across government schools. National assessments have shown varying levels of reading comprehension among students, prompting policymakers to emphasise early intervention and sustained engagement with high-quality texts. By aligning the Kalima club’s activities with curricular objectives, education authorities aim to ensure that reading sessions reinforce learning outcomes rather than operate in isolation.
Participating schools receive age-appropriate books selected by a panel of educators and literary specialists. Titles range from contemporary children’s fiction to simplified classics and works exploring heritage, science and social themes. Teachers are encouraged to adopt interactive methods, including group analysis, creative writing exercises and peer-led discussions. Organisers say such approaches help students move beyond rote memorisation towards analytical reading and personal reflection.
Beyond the classroom, the 2026 agenda includes literary forums and school-based book fairs, intended to create a celebratory atmosphere around reading. Author visits are expected to feature prominently, offering students the opportunity to engage directly with writers and ask questions about the creative process. Cultural workshops will also introduce pupils to translation and publishing, reflecting Kalima’s wider mission of supporting the Arabic book industry.
Abu Dhabi has positioned itself as a regional hub for Arabic language promotion, hosting events such as the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair and launching long-term strategies to safeguard linguistic heritage. The Arabic Language Centre was established to consolidate these efforts, with responsibilities spanning research, publishing, awards and community outreach. Education-focused initiatives such as the School Reading Club are seen as essential to sustaining demand for Arabic content in the long term.
Education experts note that reading culture initiatives can have measurable academic benefits when implemented consistently. International studies have linked sustained reading habits to improved vocabulary, comprehension and academic performance across subjects. Within the UAE, policymakers have stressed the role of Arabic proficiency in reinforcing national identity while equipping students to engage confidently in both local and global contexts.
Teachers involved in earlier phases of the Kalima club have reported higher levels of student participation during reading sessions and improved willingness to discuss literary themes. Some schools have integrated club activities into morning assemblies or designated weekly reading periods, creating routine exposure to books. Organisers say feedback from educators will inform adjustments to the 2026 programme, including the selection of titles and the format of workshops.
The programme, led by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is being delivered in partnership with the Emirates Schools Establishment, which oversees public education across the federation. Officials say the initiative is designed to deepen students’ relationship with Arabic literature while fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness at an early age.
Kalima, long known for its translation projects and support for publishing, has in recent years broadened its mandate to include school-focused reading campaigns. Through the School Reading Club, curated titles are distributed to participating schools, with educators trained to guide discussions and integrate the texts into classroom activities. The 2026 plan builds on earlier phases by increasing the number of participating schools and introducing interactive workshops with writers, illustrators and translators.
Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, has previously underscored the importance of embedding reading habits within the formal education system rather than limiting them to extracurricular events. He has described reading as a cornerstone of cultural identity and intellectual development, particularly at a time when digital consumption competes for young people’s attention. Programme coordinators say this year’s agenda reflects that philosophy, combining traditional book discussions with multimedia components designed to resonate with pupils accustomed to online platforms.
Emirates Schools Establishment officials have framed the collaboration as part of a broader effort to enhance Arabic language proficiency across government schools. National assessments have shown varying levels of reading comprehension among students, prompting policymakers to emphasise early intervention and sustained engagement with high-quality texts. By aligning the Kalima club’s activities with curricular objectives, education authorities aim to ensure that reading sessions reinforce learning outcomes rather than operate in isolation.
Participating schools receive age-appropriate books selected by a panel of educators and literary specialists. Titles range from contemporary children’s fiction to simplified classics and works exploring heritage, science and social themes. Teachers are encouraged to adopt interactive methods, including group analysis, creative writing exercises and peer-led discussions. Organisers say such approaches help students move beyond rote memorisation towards analytical reading and personal reflection.
Beyond the classroom, the 2026 agenda includes literary forums and school-based book fairs, intended to create a celebratory atmosphere around reading. Author visits are expected to feature prominently, offering students the opportunity to engage directly with writers and ask questions about the creative process. Cultural workshops will also introduce pupils to translation and publishing, reflecting Kalima’s wider mission of supporting the Arabic book industry.
Abu Dhabi has positioned itself as a regional hub for Arabic language promotion, hosting events such as the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair and launching long-term strategies to safeguard linguistic heritage. The Arabic Language Centre was established to consolidate these efforts, with responsibilities spanning research, publishing, awards and community outreach. Education-focused initiatives such as the School Reading Club are seen as essential to sustaining demand for Arabic content in the long term.
Education experts note that reading culture initiatives can have measurable academic benefits when implemented consistently. International studies have linked sustained reading habits to improved vocabulary, comprehension and academic performance across subjects. Within the UAE, policymakers have stressed the role of Arabic proficiency in reinforcing national identity while equipping students to engage confidently in both local and global contexts.
Teachers involved in earlier phases of the Kalima club have reported higher levels of student participation during reading sessions and improved willingness to discuss literary themes. Some schools have integrated club activities into morning assemblies or designated weekly reading periods, creating routine exposure to books. Organisers say feedback from educators will inform adjustments to the 2026 programme, including the selection of titles and the format of workshops.
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Culture