Book lovers, assemble. The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2025 is back for its 17th edition from January 29th to February 3rd. A celebration of Emirati literary talents, the festival highlights a diverse array of voices, promoting local talent and fostering cultural dialogue.
Here are five brilliant Emirati authors to see during this year:
Renowned for her emotive spoken word performances, Afra Atiq blends English, Arabic, and French in her poetry. Her debut collection, Of Palm Trees and Skies, masterfully interweaves personal and societal reflections.
Where to see her: At the Arabic Poetry and Qanun Night alongside other celebrated poets and Arabic qanun music. Theatre of Digital Art, Madinat Jumeirah, on January 31st, 8pm-9pm.
A poet and publisher, Ali Al-Shaali is celebrated for his poetry collections and his contributions to the literary world through Al Hudhud Publishing Group.
Where to see him: At the session I Don’t Lie, I Write, exploring how pain and isolation fuel creativity. at InterContinental, Dubai Festival City, February 1st, 5pm-6pm.
Sharjah-born Amal Al Sahlawi is known for her profound exploration of contemporary and classical themes, bringing Arabic poetry to international acclaim.
Where to see her: At the Arabic Poetry and Qanun Night alongside other celebrated poets and Arabic qanun music. Theatre of Digital Art, Madinat Jumeirah, on January 31st, 8pm-9pm.
Children’s author and educator, Ebtisam Al-Beiti crafts stories for young readers like Citrus the Smoothie Sloth.
Where to see her: Stories and Language will be a heartwarming session for children aged six years and over. InterContinental, Dubai Festival City, February 2nd, 2.30pm-3.15pm.
A powerhouse of modern Arabic literature, Salha Obeaid blends her background in electronic engineering with her passion for storytelling. Her novel, The Spice Circle, earned a spot on the 2023 International Prize for Arabic Fiction longlist.
Where to see her: Hear Salha discuss Theories of Culture and Cultural Discourse alongside leading thinkers. InterContinental, Dubai Festival City, February 1st, 10am–11am.