UAE kicks off month of reading for families

UAE residents on Monday reported noticing their mobile network names had been changed to “UAE Reads”. That’s because March 1 marks the beginning of the Month of Reading in the UAE, an annual initiative to foster a better culture of reading among citizens and residents alike.

Several events — from workshops to seminars and more — are being organised across the country under this year’s theme: ‘My Family Reads’.

The Month of Reading 2021 initiative has been designed to enhance the role of parents in instilling a love of reading in their children, highlighting its vital role in early childhood development.

“We can reinforce the role of the family and the community in changing reading patterns among individuals, through various events in all institutions, schools and universities,” said Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University.

Dr Ali bin Tamim, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, added: “The Month of Reading is one of the country’s most important strategic initiatives,

a directive from our leadership that aims to build a generation of future leaders armed with culture and knowledge.”

Isobel Abulhoul, CEO and Trustee of the Emirates Literature Foundation, said: “Whilst there is a focus on creating a new generation of readers, we mustn’t forget that adults can play a huge role in shaping children’s attitudes towards books. If you read for pleasure yourself and read books regularly with your children, you are very likely to ensure that your offspring become avid readers.”