UAE residents, both citizens and expats, are increasing their reading habits, with the average adult finishing seven books a year in 2023 compared to six books in 2021. The Ministry of Culture released the 2023 UAE National Reading Index results, showing a positive trend towards making reading a way of life by 2026. The study aims to assess reading habits and preferences in the country, reflecting the government’s dedication to enriching culture and knowledge.
The survey also indicated a shift towards online content, with 90.4% of UAE readers accessing reading materials on social media platforms, up from 88.1% in 2021. Various sources are used to obtain reading materials, with 53.4% making online purchases, 27.6% attending book fairs, and 28.3% buying books from physical stores. Additionally, 18.6% borrow books, and 7.7% use other sources to access reading materials.
When asked about their motivation to read, 53.5% of respondents said they enjoyed the habit, while 50.5% did so for information needs. Some mentioned professional motivation (24.3%) or the presence of a suitable environment (31%) as factors that encouraged them to read. These figures show a slight increase in motivation compared to 2021, with enjoyment remaining the primary reason for reading.
The UAE National Reading Index survey consisted of more than 3,800 citizens and expats, 150 writers, over 1,700 students, and more than 3,900 teachers and parents from across the UAE. Their reading habits and preferences, both traditional and innovative, were examined in collaboration with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC). The implementation of the survey followed international standards and methodologies in statistical work to ensure accurate and high-quality results.
In terms of language preferences, the 2023 survey revealed that 51% of readers preferred English, while 24.6% opted for Arabic exclusively. Additionally, 12.4% read Arabic and other languages, 1.1% chose French, and 6.4% selected other languages. These figures represent a slight shift from 2021, with English maintaining its position as the most preferred language for reading among UAE residents.
The positive trend in reading habits and preferences in the UAE highlights the importance of promoting a culture of reading and knowledge acquisition. The government’s efforts to make reading a way of life by 2026 are reflected in the increasing number of books read by individuals and the diverse sources through which they access reading materials. With a growing inclination towards online content and a variety of languages being read, the UAE is fostering a rich literary environment that caters to the diverse interests and preferences of its residents.
