The Emirates Literature Foundation has revealed an impressive lineup for the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2025, set to bring bestselling authors and cultural figures to Dubai.
This year’s attendees include author Abraham Verghese, Emmy-winning journalist Hala Gorani, Jeff Kinney of Diary of a Wimpy Kid fame, Booker nominee Chigozie Obioma, and travel writer Dr. Mohamed Mansi Qandil. The 17th edition of LitFest, held from January 29 to February 3 at the newly renovated InterContinental Dubai Festival City, offers over 150 immersive sessions, such as Desert Stanzas, LitFest After Hours, Discovery Talks, and LitFest Families.
Emirati Strand Sponsored by Dubai Culture
In collaboration with Dubai Culture, the Emirati Strand celebrates UAE culture and gives Emirati writers a platform to engage with global peers. Attendees can look forward to works from Emirati talents like poet Adel Khozam, artist Asmaa Al Remithi, and filmmaker Nahla Al Fahad.
Dynamic Program and Featured Events
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Festival promises diverse experiences. Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of the Emirates Literature Foundation, describes the LitFest as a platform for dialogue, empathy, and cultural exchange. Signature events include Desert Stanzas, an outdoor poetry night, and LitFest After Hours, offering an evening mix of activities.
Celebrating Literary Voices and Cultural Conversations
Top authors and cultural icons will lead discussions and sessions. Attendees can join Graeme Wilson as he talks about the biography of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum or dive into Abraham Verghese’s best-seller, The Covenant of Water. Alison Steadman will also be present, sharing personal anecdotes with warmth and wit. Learn the art of storytelling with Dr. Mohamed Mansi Qandil and Waciny Laredj, or uncover insights from Chigozie Obioma on his Booker-nominated works.
LitFest After Hours and LitFest Families
The LitFest After Hours segment offers performances, games, and unique showcases each night. Meanwhile, LitFest Families presents young readers with engaging sessions led by popular children’s authors like Jeff Kinney. Families can enjoy creative storytelling, art workshops, and interactive shows.
Discovery Talks and Writer’s Corner
Discovery Talks offers free, open-access discussions on diverse topics, led by beloved authors. Aspiring writers can participate in Writer’s Corner, where workshops, bootcamps, and discussions guide them through the writing journey. Attendees can hone skills, join industry panels, and explore character-building workshops with bestselling author Clare Mackintosh.
Educational Focus on Students
With a commitment to education, the Festival will host special in-person sessions for students, including interactive talks by Egyptian STEM educator Mohanad Science. Sessions encourage imagination and invention with environmentalist Steve Mushin, or an art-based exploration with illustrator Walid Taher.
Awards, Book Launches, and Celebrations
The LitFest will honor emerging talents with awards like the Chevron Readers’ Cup and Emirates NBD Poetry for All. Upcoming book releases will be celebrated, including the latest sustainability stories from Voices of Future Generations. ELF Publishing will also launch Emirati author Shamma Albastaki’s book, House to House.
