Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2026: Full Line-Up, Dates & Highlights

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2026 to Run from January 21–27 in Dubai

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2026 is set to return to Dubai from January 21 to 27, bringing together globally acclaimed authors, celebrated Emirati storytellers, and award-winning literary icons for one of the world’s most influential cultural events. The prestigious festival, organised by the Emirates Literature Foundation, was unveiled during an exclusive ceremony at the Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, highlighting a vision built on storytelling, cultural connection, and the spirit of the UAE.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the 18th edition of this internationally recognised festival will take place at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. A special VIP panel will honour Sheikh Mohammed’s acclaimed book “Life Taught Me.”

A Star-Studded Line-up of Global Literary Giants

This year’s line-up features award-winning novelists, bestselling authors, cultural commentators, and prominent Arab writers. Among the major names:

RF Kuang, Yellowface bestselling author
Ruth Ware, known for The Woman in Cabin 10, adapted for Netflix
Samantha Shannon, author of The Bone Season
Ezzat Elkamhawi, Naguib Mahfouz Medal recipient
Rachel Clarke, Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction winner
Caleb Azumah Nelson, British Book Award winner
Curtis Jobling, creator of Wereworld, now a Netflix series
Asma Khan, famed chef and Netflix Chef’s Table personality
Big Manny, science influencer and social media sensation
MC Grammar, global ambassador for World Book Day

Returning favourites include Shamma Al Bastaki, Oyinkan Braithwaite, Hoda Barakat, Shashi Tharoor, Oliver Jeffers, Jalal Barjas, Saud Al Sanousi, and several distinguished voices from the Gulf region.

A Festival Strengthening the UAE’s Literary Leadership

Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of Emirates Literature Foundation, reaffirmed the festival’s mission to support the UAE’s evolution into a global literary hub. She emphasised that the festival encourages deeper human connection through reading, creativity, and shared stories—values that resonate strongly in an era of global change.

Supported by Emirates Airline and Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the festival continues to expand its reputation as the Arab World’s largest celebration of literature and storytelling.

Dubai Culture Expands Its Creative Footprint

Dubai Culture will support three major segments this year:

Bil Emirati – spotlighting leading Emirati creatives
Translation – emphasising cultural bridges and multilingual understanding
Literary Luminary Prize – honouring Emirati storytellers with exceptional impact

The Authority highlighted that this collaboration strengthens Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, creativity, and knowledge development.

Honouring Arab Literary Excellence

The festival will also host special events marking major regional literary achievements:

Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation – celebrating the centenary of the iconic Emirati poet
Sheikh Zayed Book Award – commemorating its 20th anniversary
Saif Ghobash Banipal Translation Prize – celebrating 20 years in translation excellence
Ibn Battuta Award for Geographic Literature – curating a special panel on Arab geographic literature

More Than 200 Sessions and 40 Nationalities Confirmed

Visitors can explore curated programme strands including:

State of Now – frontline journalism and commentary
How To – practical insights from global leaders
Fantastic Fiction – immersive storytelling experiences
Writers’ Corner – skill-building for creatives
LitFest Families – activities for young readers
LitFest After Hours – music, comedy, and cultural performances

Unique experiences include Desert Stanzas, a Highrise Homicide murder-mystery dinner, and a Scottish poetry night An Ode Tae Robbie Burns.

Tickets, Passes & Exclusive Member Benefits

Ticket prices start at AED 50
Conversations Pass – AED 400 for English & Arabic sessions
Bil Arabi Pass – AED 100 for Arabic-focused discussions
Foundation Friends receive:
- 20% discount on all tickets
- Reserved seating
- Priority booking
- Lounge access
- Invitations to exclusive year-round events