The reading culture in the UAE is gaining momentum, with residents, both Emiratis and expatriates, diving into more books and digital content than in previous years. A recent survey by the Ministry of Culture has found that in 2023, the average adult in the UAE read seven books, up from six in 2021, signaling a growing engagement with literature.
The 2023 UAE National Reading Index, a biennial survey, underscores this shift as part of the country’s broader initiative to make reading an integral part of daily life by 2026. The study not only highlights an increase in traditional book reading but also a notable rise in digital content consumption, with 90.4% of respondents now reading on social media platforms, up from 88.1% in 2021.
How residents access their reading materials has also evolved. Online purchases have become the dominant method, with 53.4% of readers buying books online, compared to 43.6% in 2021. Visits to bookstores and book fairs, as well as borrowing books, remain popular, reflecting a diverse approach to sourcing reading materials.
The motivations behind this reading habit are varied. While enjoyment remains the top reason, cited by 53.5% of those surveyed, a significant number read for information, professional development, or due to the availability of a conducive reading environment.
The survey, which gathered insights from over 3,800 residents, 150 writers, 1,700 students, and 3,900 teachers and parents, provides a comprehensive overview of reading habits in the UAE. It also reveals a preference for English-language reading, with 51% favoring it, followed by Arabic, which remains a strong choice for nearly a quarter of the population.