Rare Manuscript Dazzles at Abu Dhabi Book Fair

Abu Dhabi International Book Fair: Rare Manuscript Highlights Event

On April 26, the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) opened, featuring a truly special piece: a 14th-century manuscript of Ibn Sina's (Avicenna) iconic medical work, 'The Canon of Medicine' (Al-Qanun fi al-Tibb). This rare copy is valued at over 464,000 dirhams and promises to be one of the fair's biggest attractions.

This manuscript is outstanding not only for its monetary value but also as a significant milestone, marking the 1000th anniversary of Ibn Sina's groundbreaking work. 'The Canon of Medicine' was a foundational piece in the medieval Islamic world and globally in medicine, influencing scientific development across generations.

Exceptional Rarities at the Fair

The rare manuscript was brought by a renowned antiquarian, arriving in Abu Dhabi with a carefully curated collection. Other highlights at the stand include:

The first known instance of Arabic script in an American novel ('The Kentuckian in New-York', 1834), priced at 36,675 dirhams.

A rare, previously undocumented 19th-century Arabic-English phrasebook by an Egyptian author, also priced at 36,675 dirhams.

The first complete Arabic edition of 'One Thousand and One Nights' printed by the Bulaq Press in 1835, a cornerstone of Middle Eastern literary heritage.

A 1948 visual archive of Saudi Arabia's Hejaz railway post-war project with more than 200 unpublished photographs, priced at 90,465 dirhams.

Original watercolors by Edmund Dulac capturing the magic of 'One Thousand and One Nights', priced between 171,000 and 391,000 dirhams.

A facsimile of Al-Istakhri's geographical atlas, reproducing the oldest surviving Arab maps.

These works are valuable not only for their rarity but also because they reflect cultural identity, historical memory, and a sense of belonging.

New Generation, New Collecting Philosophy

Increasingly, young collectors in the Middle East are building libraries that reflect their own tastes and identities, rather than maintaining traditionally inherited collections. There is growing interest in Arab calligraphy, Islamic philosophy, early scientific texts, and materials related to diaspora heritage, such as trade maps and language guides.

This change aligns with a regional trend emphasizing the preservation of national identity and cultural heritage on both institutional and private collection levels.

This Year's Fair Theme: Knowledge Builds Community

The current Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is conducted under the theme "Knowledge Illuminates Our Community," organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre and supported by the President of the UAE. The event features 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries, with more than 2,000 diverse programs, focusing on literature, publishing, creative industries, and cultural dialogue.

A highlight theme at the fair is 'One Thousand and One Nights', chosen this year as the 'Book of the World'. Its timeless wisdom, rich storytelling, and cultural significance perfectly encapsulate the fair's spirit.

Conclusion

This year, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is not just an event but a bridge between past and present, emphasizing the importance of preserving knowledge, culture, and identity. The rare manuscripts and artifacts represent not only historical value but also provide inspiration to those rediscovering the rich heritage of the Arab world.

To experience this first-hand, visitors can attend the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi until May 5 — truly, knowledge lights up our communities.

(The article source is a statement from the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF).)