Dubai’s celebrated Emirates Airline Festival of Literature returns from 29 January to 3 February 2025, bringing book enthusiasts together for its 17th edition at the newly renovated InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Organized by the Emirates Literature Foundation, this festival is a must-attend for readers, writers, and families, offering an impressive lineup of over 150 sessions that span workshops, talks, and unique cultural experiences. This year’s theme promises to delve into the art of storytelling, with events tailored for every age and interest.

For those keen on an immersive experience, the LitFest 2025 will feature renowned authors, intriguing workshops, and exclusive sessions. Headliners include the celebrated Abraham Verghese, Emmy-winning journalist Hala Gorani, and Jeff Kinney, author of Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Literary fans can also look forward to conversations with Booker Prize nominee Chigozie Obioma and acclaimed travel writer Dr. Mohamed Mansi Qandil, making this event a literary pilgrimage for fans worldwide.

Must-Attend Highlights at Emirates LitFest 2025

  • Desert Stanzas: Picture a night under the stars, where poets from around the world recite their verses in the serene desert landscape, creating an evening to remember.
  • All That Glitters: An exclusive dinner event that combines mystery and storytelling, enhancing each course with a hint of literary intrigue.
  • Qanoon and Poetry Night: Set at the stunning Madinat Jumeirah, this event blends musical performances with poetry, offering a deep dive into the rhythms of language and verse.
  • LitFest After Hours: Late-night conversations with literary stars, including Abraham Verghese and Chigozie Obioma, promise engaging discussions on the power and purpose of storytelling.

Family-Friendly Fun with LitFest Families

Families can enjoy dedicated sessions tailored for young readers at LitFest Families. With entertaining shows by Diary of a Wimpy Kid creator Jeff Kinney and an interactive cooking demonstration by young chefs Darryl Gadzekpo and Ella Phillips, there’s no shortage of fun. Other highlights for young bookworms include enchanting story sessions from beloved authors Samar Mahfouz Barraj, May Chebaklo, and Noura Al-Khoori, making reading an unforgettable experience.

Honoring Young Writers and Inspiring Future Talent

The festival also shines a spotlight on young writers in the Emirates through its prestigious competitions. The Chevron Readers’ Cup and Emirates NBD Poetry for All will showcase the literary talents of UAE students. The First Chapter: ELF Seddiqi Writers’ Fellowship highlights ten emerging writers beginning their literary careers, while the Voices of Future Generations book launch will present youth-authored, sustainability-themed stories that encourage a brighter future.

The LitFest’s Emirati Strand, in partnership with Dubai Culture, celebrates UAE’s literary richness by featuring Emirati authors, poets, and thinkers. This segment emphasizes Dubai’s role as a dynamic cultural hub, encouraging dialogues that blend Emirati heritage with global perspectives.

How to Buy Tickets and Join Emirates LitFest 2025

The Emirates LitFest offers both free and ticketed events, including conversations, family activities, and workshops. Book enthusiasts can also benefit from exclusive passes like the Bil Arabi pass, granting access to Arabic-language sessions at up to 90% off, and the Festival Friends loyalty program, offering perks such as priority booking, reserved seating, and VIP invitations.

To secure your place and see the full lineup, visit Emirates LitFest Tickets.