The TRENDS Group pavilion at the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair has drawn steady crowds throughout the event’s opening days, according to a WAM report. Visitors from varied backgrounds have engaged with the centre’s extensive collection of original research, translated works and specialised studies spanning multiple disciplines. High-profile figures including government ministers and cultural leaders have toured the space, where they examined recent publications and discussed initiatives supporting youth development in research skills. The pavilion’s design blends traditional Emirati elements with forward-looking displays, creating an environment that appeals to both academics and the general public.
WAM reported that the pavilion’s popularity stems from its rich assortment of books and in-depth analyses produced by TRENDS Research and Advisory. Among the featured titles is a volume exploring the pearl diving era and its role in shaping Gulf prosperity, which has resonated strongly with attendees. Sheikh Zayed bin Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikha Rawda bint Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan were among those who visited, reviewing materials aimed at fostering curiosity among younger readers through dedicated series. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, also stopped by to review new releases, including a book on cybersecurity authored by Mohammed Al Kuwaiti.
A panel discussion hosted at the pavilion addressed ways to build education systems that balance global competitiveness with respect for local identity, TRENDS officials said in a statement. The session formed part of a broader programme of knowledge activities that included book signings and interactive workshops. These events have complemented the static displays, encouraging deeper engagement from researchers, students and cultural enthusiasts who attended the fair at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Such programming aligns with the centre’s mission to promote scientific inquiry and informed dialogue on contemporary issues.
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, which organises the fair, previously reported that the 2025 edition drew approximately 400,000 visitors over its extended 10-day run, marking a substantial increase from prior years. This year’s gathering features 1,200 exhibitors from 95 countries and around 1,500 cultural and intellectual events through September 18, building on that momentum with a focus on creative industries and cross-cultural exchange. TRENDS participation as a platinum partner reflects the growing emphasis on research institutions within such major knowledge platforms across the region. Student attendance has risen notably in recent editions, with more than 64,000 young people exploring the exhibits in 2025.
TRENDS Research and Advisory has incorporated interactive technologies into its pavilion to enhance visitor experiences, according to a briefing from the group’s exhibitions department. These include immersive sections that recreate historical maritime scenes alongside modern digital tools for exploring publications. Rawda Al Marzouqi, head of the distribution and exhibitions sector at TRENDS Group, noted that the setup allows attendees to directly engage with the organisation’s latest encyclopedias, studies and translated materials. Hazza Al Hammadi, director of the exhibitions department, described the space as an interactive knowledge hub designed to deepen public understanding of the centre’s work.
In an announcement tied to the fair, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research and Advisory, stated that the centre’s involvement stems from its belief that culture forms the cornerstone of societal awareness while documentation preserves national identity. The group’s output, which includes strategic analyses on global trends, has drawn praise from visiting officials and international guests for its depth and relevance. This marks the latest in a series of active participations by TRENDS at the book fair, where it consistently positions itself as a bridge between heritage preservation and future-oriented research. The pavilion remains open for the duration of the event, which celebrates both Arabic language and global creative contributions.
