Our Library

Anyone who registers for a course at Alliance Française Dubai automatically receives a complimentary library membership for 12 months as part of their registration fee. The library is also open to non-students, who can purchase a membership independently to borrow books, films, and other French-language resources. Membership fees are payable at the time of registration and are non-refundable and non-transferable once paid. You can sign up at either of our centres or find current membership options on our Library page. A membership card gives you access to browse and borrow from our full collection.

The standard loan period for library items is 21 days, and most loans can be renewed once, provided the item has not been reserved by another member. The exact number of items you can borrow at one time depends on the type of membership you hold. Some items in the collection are reference-only or otherwise excluded from borrowing, which will be indicated at the time of checkout. Renewals and availability can be checked at the library desk or through your membership account. Returning items on time helps keep titles available for other members.

A refundable deposit may be required when you register for a library membership, in addition to the membership fee itself. This deposit is returned at the end of your membership period, as long as all borrowed items have been returned in good condition. Unclaimed deposits remain valid for up to five years from the date of payment; after that period, they are considered retained by Alliance Française Dubai. If you renew your membership without a break, your existing deposit typically carries over. It is worth keeping your payment receipt as proof when requesting your deposit back.

If a borrowed item is lost or damaged while in your care, you are responsible for either replacing it or reimbursing Alliance Française Dubai for its value. In these cases, all or part of your membership deposit may be retained to cover the cost. We recommend reporting a lost or damaged item to library staff as soon as possible rather than waiting until the item is due, since this can affect how the situation is resolved. Normal wear from regular reading is expected and is treated differently from accidental damage or loss. Our team can advise on replacement options if the same title is out of print.

Beyond our physical book collection, the library gives members access to TV5MONDE, a French-language streaming platform with shows, news, and films suited to different proficiency levels. Our team regularly curates recommendations of books and films for learners at various stages, which are featured on the Library page and updated periodically. The collection spans fiction, non-fiction, and learning materials for both adults and younger readers. Members can also use the library as a quiet space to read, study, or practise French independently. Staff at the reception desk can help you find resources that match your level and interests.

The library is a shared, quiet space, so members are expected to keep noise to a minimum out of respect for others who are reading or studying. Eating, drinking, and using mobile phones are not permitted inside the reading areas. Children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult at all times while in the library. Borrowed items should be handled carefully and returned by their due date to avoid loss or damage charges. These rules apply across all of our library locations.