Across genres, generations, and literary forms, a remarkable wave of Emirati women writers is shaping the region’s cultural narrative. From historical fiction and poetry to children’s literature and experimental prose, these authors are expanding the boundaries of storytelling while bringing Emirati voices to global audiences.
Reem Al Kamali
Novelist and journalist Reem Al Kamali stands among the UAE’s most internationally recognised literary voices. With a background in history and a role as Culture Editor at Al Bayan, her writing is deeply informed by research and cultural inquiry. Her novels, including The Sultanate of Hormuz and The Statue of Dalma, have earned major regional awards, while Rose’s Diary achieved global recognition after being shortlisted for the International Prize for Arabic Fiction and translated into English in 2024. In 2025, she reached another milestone when she was shortlisted for the BRICS Literature Award.
Shamma Albastaki
A distinctive voice in the UAE’s literary scene, poet and author Shamma Al Bastaki is celebrated for her ability to navigate multiple genres with equal depth. Her writing reflects an analytical sensibility shaped by her academic background, while her storytelling remains emotionally resonant and accessible. Albastaki’s work often explores perception, memory and the subtle shifts within everyday life, positioning her as a thoughtful chronicler of contemporary experience. Recognised with several prestigious literary honours, she continues to build a body of work that resonates across generations. This year she made her debut at the Emirates Literature Festival 2025 where she presented her latest book House to House. A collective that captures the stories and collective memories of Dubai Creek’s elders from the 1940s to the 1980.
Maitha Al Khayat
Children’s literature author and illustrator Maitha Al Khayat has more than 17 years of experience and over 160 published titles. She has built an extraordinary career dedicated to inspiring young readers. Both writer and illustrator, she creates immersive worlds that blend imagination with cultural authenticity, introducing themes of family, creativity and identity in ways that resonate with children across cultures. Many of her books have been translated into multiple languages, expanding her reach internationally. Award-winning titles such as My Own Way and Turn Off the Lights demonstrate her ability to craft meaningful narratives that both educate and entertain.
Maryam AlZarooni
Poet, novelist and cultural leader Maryam AlZarooni represents a rare intersection of literary talent and intellectual scholarship. While serving on the board of the Emirates Writers Union and pursuing graduate studies in literature and criticism, she combines academic insight with creative expression. Her poetry collection, It No Longer Matters, gained international recognition after its Spanish translation won a major prize at the 2025 Madrid Book Fair. She has also earned acclaim for fiction, notably her award-winning novel A Letter from Harvard.
Nadia Alnajjar
Nadia Alnajjar has established herself as one of the UAE’s most respected literary figures through a diverse portfolio spanning novels, short stories and children’s literature. With a background in computer science, she brings analytical precision to her storytelling while maintaining a strong emotional core. Her achievements include major honours, including the Sharjah Book Fair Award for Best Emirati Book, the Emirates Novel Award, and the Al-Owais Award. Her latest novel, Texture of Light, further cemented her reputation after being shortlisted for the International Prize for Arabic Fiction.
