Marking its 16th anniversary, Emirates Literature Festival in Dubai has evolved into one of the world’s premier international literary events, celebrating storytelling as a captivating art form that nurtures imagination and cultural appreciation.

Established in 2009, the Emirates Literature Festival has transformed from modest origins into a highly anticipated event, aiming to instill a love for reading and writing within the community. The festival boasts a diverse array of literary workshops, debates, performances, and panel discussions, featuring both local and international luminaries.

Dates and Locations:

The festival is set to take place at the InterContinental in Festival City from January 31 to February 6, 2024. With close to 160 events scheduled at this venue, special events like ‘Desert Stanzas’ and ‘Arabic Poetry and Oud Night’ will unfold at distinct locations like Caravanserai in Exit 29 – Jebel Ali and the Theatre of Digital Art.

Speakers

The festival boasts an impressive lineup, with notable figures like UAE astronauts Hazza AlMansoori and Sultan AlNeyadi, as well as acclaimed authors such as Saud Al Sanousi, Thomas Erikson, Sue Lynn Tan, Lucy Hawking, and Hala Alyan.

Programme

The festival’s program is divided into five categories, each featuring a range of events over the 7-day celebration.

1. Conversations: Thought-provoking discussions by thought leaders and experts, featuring events like ‘Thomas Erikson: Surrounded By Energy Vampires’ and ‘A Meeting Of Literary Giants.’
2. Workshops: Seven workshops, including a two-day boot camp by American author Susan Breen, offer hands-on experiences for attendees interested in various literary pursuits.
3. Discovery Talks: Discussions on niche topics such as ‘Teaching Robots Arabic (with AI)’ and ‘Bringing Chinese Mythology to Life,’ providing insights from experts in their respective fields.
4. Special Events: Marvellous experiences, including the Opening Gala, LitFest After Hours, Desert Stanzas, and more, promise diverse entertainment for festival-goers.
5. Family Activities: Engaging events for children, featuring performances, puppet shows, and talks by renowned children’s authors, emphasize the power of literature in shaping young minds.

Tickets

Ticket prices range from AED 50 to AED 500, with registration on the Emirates Literature Festival website required for purchase. The events cater to diverse linguistic preferences, with English and Arabic options available.

In summary, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2024 offers a week-long extravaganza for literature enthusiasts, blending international flair with local talent, and fostering a love for the written word in the vibrant city of Dubai.