Reading habits in the UAE revealed in recent study

In a recent report by the Ministry of Culture, the 2023 UAE National Reading Index was released, shedding light on the reading habits of citizens and residents in the UAE. The survey, conducted in partnership with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, aimed to track the reading habits of individuals in line with the nation’s goal of making reading a cornerstone of daily life by 2026.

With over 3,800 participants including citizens, residents, writers, students, teachers, and parents, the survey revealed some interesting trends. One of the key findings was that the average number of books read annually per person increased to seven in 2023, up from six in 2021. This shows a positive trend towards promoting a reading culture in the UAE.

Another noteworthy statistic from the survey was the increase in the use of social media sites by readers. In 2023, 90.4 per cent of respondents reported using social media sites for reading purposes, compared to 88.1 per cent in 2021. This shift towards digital platforms for reading indicates a changing landscape in how people consume literature.

When it comes to sources for obtaining books, the survey showed a diversification in preferences. In 2023, 53.4 per cent of participants reported purchasing books online, 27.6 per cent bought books at book fairs, 28.3 per cent from bookstores, 18.6 per cent borrowed books, and 7.7 per cent obtained books from other sources. This contrasts with the 2021 figures, where electronic purchases were at 43.6 per cent, book fair purchases at 37.6 per cent, bookstore purchases at 32.3 per cent, borrowing at 18.4 per cent, and other sources at 8 per cent.

Mubarak Al Nakhi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, emphasized the importance of the UAE National Reading Index in showcasing the leadership’s commitment to enriching culture and knowledge. He highlighted how intellectual development is crucial for sustainable growth and how the UAE aims to position itself as a center for knowledge and cultural richness.

Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, added that the survey adhered to international standards, providing accurate and comprehensive data on the reading habits and cultural development within the community. This commitment to reliable data ensures that the findings accurately reflect the current state of reading in the UAE.

Language preferences also emerged as a significant aspect of the survey. In 2023, 51 per cent of participants preferred reading in English, 24.6 per cent exclusively in Arabic, 12.4 per cent in both Arabic and other languages, 1.1 per cent in French, and 6.4 per cent in other languages. These figures differed slightly from the 2021 preferences, with 47.7 per cent for English, 26.6 per cent for Arabic exclusively, 12.1 per cent for Arabic and other languages, 1.2 per cent for French, and 5.8 per cent for other languages.

Additionally, the survey delved into the reasons why individuals read. In 2023, 53.5 per cent read for enjoyment, 50.5 per cent for information, 24.3 per cent for professional reasons, and 31 per cent cited a suitable environment as a factor. These numbers were compared to the 2021 statistics, which showed that 55.1 per cent read for enjoyment, 47.6 per cent for information, 21.8 per cent for professional reasons, and 20.6 per cent for a suitable environment.

A particularly interesting finding from the survey was the perception of Emirati literature among writers and authors. Only 60 per cent of participants in this group believed that Emirati literature reflected the cultural and societal landscape, a decrease from 80.1 per cent in 2021. However, the survey also revealed that 90 per cent of writers and authors endorsed the idea that translating and critiquing Emirati literature can boost its readership, a figure that remained relatively consistent with the 2021 index.

Overall, the 2023 UAE National Reading Index provides valuable insights into the reading habits and preferences of individuals in the UAE. With a focus on promoting a culture of reading and enriching intellectual development, the survey underscores the importance of literature in shaping the societal fabric of the nation. Through continued efforts to support and promote reading initiatives, the UAE is on track to achieve its goal of making reading a fundamental part of daily life by 2026.