Reading for Pleasure Caravan Conference
28 September – 1 October 2026

In its latest edition, the conference takes on a new, mobile "caravan" format. Inspired by the historic trade caravans that once connected commerce and culture across the Arabian Peninsula, the Reading for Pleasure Caravan Conference will travel across Dubai, Al Ain and Abu Dhabi—cities that have long been centres of learning, storytelling, and cultural exchange.

At each destination, participants will enjoy keynote talks, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, creating opportunities to connect, collaborate and exchange ideas, much as travellers in traditional desert caravans once gathered to share knowledge and stories along their journeys.

Conference Locations

  • Monday, 28 September
    Museum of the Future, Dubai
  • Tuesday, 29 September
    Zayed University, Dubai Campus
  • Wednesday, 30 September
    United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain
  • Thursday, 1 October
    Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi Campus

Now in its third edition, the conference is driven by a shared purpose: to explore the most effective ways to nurture a love of reading, inspire a lifelong enjoyment of books, and embed reading as an integral part of everyday life.


The programme also offers a rich and varied agenda addressing key themes, including but not limited to:

  • The psychology of reading and its impact on brain development
  • Faculty perspectives, with a focus on their role and wellbeing
  • Arabic language education, bilingualism, and the Mother tongue
  • Practical approaches to fostering a love of Arabic and reading in children
  • The impact of reading on children’s mental health and academic development
  • The role of families in building sustainable reading habits
  • Reading with individuals of determination
  • Recommendations for high-quality books that reflect the local context

The conference will welcome approximately 100 speakers from the UAE, the GCC and around the world, sharing their expertise and the latest research through keynote talks, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions.

Attendance at all conference activities is free of charge, reflecting our commitment to making knowledge accessible to everyone.