Mashable: Germany will be the Guest of Honor this year and will be the centre of more than 15 cultural events.

Book lovers assemble! Over 400 events are lined up across seven days at this year’s Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from May 23 to 29.

The event organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism, will mark its 31 years that bring together literary figures, Nobel laureates, academics and industry professionals from all over the world, presenting more than 1,000 publishers from 80 countries.

Literary and cultural seminars, creative workshops, panel discussions, poetry evenings, educational events, book signings by 80 authors, and various children's activities will be presented by renowned writers, experts, and entertainers.

This year, Germany will be the Guest of Honor, and will be the centre of more than 15 cultural events, featuring publishers, intellectuals and creators from the country. Screenings of German films, as well as events highlighting partnerships between the German and Arab cultures, will be among the special events.

Egyptian author Taha Hussein, renowned as the "Dean of Arabic Literature," will be honoured as the Personality of the Year in recognition of his contributions to Arab culture. In collaboration with the Taha Hussein Museum in Egypt, a special pavilion devoted to Hussein will highlight his accomplishments and cultural impact narrating his life story.

As reported by The National, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi stated that the book fair is a significant opportunity for the regional and international publishing sectors.

This year's additions include a comic section, as well as a lifestyle and music program. The Black Box Cinema, created by Emirati director Nawaf Al Janahi, will return after a four-year hiatus.

The first International Congress of Arabic Publishing and Creative Industries will also be organized, with participants discussing different ways to enhance and promote the book industry, as well as analyzing the newest trends and practises in Arabic content.