Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2021 now open to all visitors with a negative PCR test

Previously, the event only allowed entry to vaccinated guests with a negative PCR test and those under the age of 17 were not permitted

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is home to 800 exhibitors from 46 countries. Khushnum Bhandari / The National 

Guests of all ages can now enjoy the final days of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

The event, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, announced that it will open its doors to visitors of all ages provided they present a negative PCR test conducted 48 hours prior, starting from May 26.

The book fair will offer free PCR tests to visitors aged 12 and above, across all Seha testing centres in Abu Dhabi; all you need to do is present your entry pass to the fair. Children below 12 will be permitted to enter, as long as there is one guardian to every two children.

Previously, entry rules only permitted vaccinated guests who also had to present a negative PCR test and entry was not allowed to anyone under the age of 17.

In addition to required PCR tests, other Covid-19 safety measures are still in place, including the wearing of face masks, checking of temperatures at the entrances, social distancing and limited visitor numbers inside the exhibition halls and pavilions. Guests will also still need to book in advance for sessions.

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, now in its 30th iteration, boasts one of its strongest programmes to date.

Several literary heavyweights and key cultural figures have appeared at sessions, including An American Marriage author Tayari Jones and British historian Bettany Hughes. Dr Omar Al Hammadi, vice president of the Emirates International Medicine Association, and Zaki Nusseibeh, cultural adviser to the President, are among those scheduled to appear at coming events.

Like most other cultural events taking place during the pandemic, the book fair has adopted a hybrid approach this year with in-person and online events.

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair runs until Saturday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.