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libraries

Immerse yourself in literature at Dubai libraries this summer

With the arrival of warmer weather, Dubai offers a plethora of libraries that are the perfect place for bookworms and general readers to spend an afternoon expanding their horizons. Offering first edition novels, notable cafes and lively book clubs, Dubai’s libraries are the perfect places to spend the summer season.

Avid readers throughout the city should head to the brand new Mohammed Bin Rashid Library located in Al Jaddafa which was recently inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The architecturally stunning library covers more than 54,000 square metres, with seven floors and nine themed wings, making it the largest library in the Gulf region. The new building will be a cultural pillar of the city, a place for the exchange of ideas and knowledge.

The library has a general section specialising in Emirati literature and another large area dedicated to children and young adults. The extensive library also has sections devoted to business literature, periodicals, maps, atlases, magazines and many other 20th century publications in Arabic and English. The literary house also has a private collectors’ section, which will be accessible to guests with special permission. The treasures of the library, including historical copies of the Koran and a first edition of Miguel de Cervantes’ 17th-century epic novel Don Quixote, are an exceptional feature of the house.

There are several places in the city that are ideal for an educational day out with children during the school summer holidays, while keeping their minds occupied, inspiring and instilling a love of literature. There are several family libraries in Dubai that give children the opportunity to learn and develop while parents relax nearby over a novel and a cup of coffee. The Al Safa Art and Design Library offers special season tickets for adults and children and is an exciting place, perfect for children of all ages and their families, as it offers a wide variety of books as well as science reading material. There are also interactive art and design classes, sculpture and architecture lessons, Arabic calligraphy instruction, performing arts and much more. In addition, the Umm Suqeim Public Library offers a wide range of learning and reading activities for children, as well as a dedicated activity room designed to captivate the imagination of children.

Dubai’s wide range of libraries are the perfect place to spend your free time this summer to enrich your mind and soul and gain insight into the region’s rich culture and history. Many libraries in the city have departments dedicated entirely to historical Emirati literature. The Jameel Library at Jameel Arts Centre has a wide range of novels focusing on the historical and cultural transformation of the UAE. The Jameel Library also hosts regular talks, in-depth research projects and group reading sessions, bringing a sense of community to the library experience.

This summer, tourists and residents of Dubai are encouraged to visit the many libraries and reading spaces to better understand the city and reconnect with friends and family sharing a passion for literature.

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