Bookworms unite! All about online libraries in the UAE
All you bibliophiles will agree that it’s infinitely satisfying to peruse through your favourite titles in a quaint library. However, with the hustle and bustle of daily life, avid readers often find it difficult to physically visit. This is where e-Libraries in the UAE come into play! These digital libraries allow readers and scholars the chance to browse online books, newspapers and resources whenever they want, all from the comfort of their homes.
Here is a list of online libraries in the UAE. Take a look and visit their official websites to pick your favourite e-book to read online in the UAE.
List of online libraries in the UAE
Maktaba
Maktaba is an updated identity of the National Library (Dar Al Kutub Digital Library) established by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism. Readers will find a huge collection of Arabic as well as English fiction and non-fiction works, including e-books, videos and academic articles for different subjects, at this free online library in the UAE. Readers have to first register with this online UAE library to be able to access the free resources.
British Council Library
British Council has launched a free online library in the UAE. The initiative is aimed to provide readers in the region with free resources and promote reading habits among the youth. The British Council’s Digital Library in the UAE gives readers access to various popular eBooks, movies, audiobooks, documentaries and much more.
Furthermore, members of the library also get access to e-magazines, e-newspapers and other educational content to help them learn the English language.
Abu Dhabi Children’s Library
Abu Dhabi Children’s Library is one of the best online libraries in the UAE for kids. This online library in Abu Dhabi also offers different age-appropriate programmes for babies, toddlers, preschool kids and teenagers.
Dubai Digital Library
The Dubai Digital Library was initiated by Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation as a part of making 2016 the Year of Reading in the UAE. It has an extensive collection of electronic books, translations, dictionaries, biographies and maps.
The electronic platform also aims to foster national heritage and culture and provide a medium where other nations can develop an understanding of the Arab world. While the library has many free resources, some of the premium content will have to be purchased for a nominal cost.
Pick2Read
Pick2Read is the first online library in the UAE that rents physical books. A joint venture of three expat women Aparna Hariharan, Supraja Ramakumar and Archana Rajesh Kumar, Pick2Read is an e-commerce library with a wide range of genres and themes. Delivery and pickup options are available for bibliophiles.
If you wish to be a part of Pick2Read, all you need to do is register online on the official website and select a membership plan according to your requirements. Sign in with your new account and get any book you want. The tracking system will send reminders to ensure the timely return of books. Plans start from AED 20 per month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some other public libraries in the UAE?
Some other popular libraries in the UAE are Sharjah Library and Mohammed Bin Rashid Library.
What are some of the best places to buy second-hand books in Dubai?
There are many affordable bookstores in Dubai and other emirates where you can buy second-hand books. Bookends, BookWorld & Archies Bookstore and Library (aka BookWorld), House of Prose Bookstore and Book World Trading are some of the most popular options for reasonably priced second-hand books in Dubai.
That is all about digital libraries in the UAE. Apart from these online resources, there are many public libraries in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other emirates of the UAE where readers can find hundreds of books and literary works in English and Arabic.
