Bil Emirati Strand Highlights Local Literary Talent At Emirates Airline Festival Of Literature

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority is backing the 'Bil Emirati' section at the 17th Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. This initiative aims to spotlight Emirati authors, support their creative paths, and encourage global engagement. The festival, featuring 43 writers in 36 sessions, continues until 3 February 2025 at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City.

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted their dedication to nurturing local talent. He stated: "The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature offers a dynamic space for writers and thinkers from around the globe to celebrate their contributions through events that build bridges between communities and encourage cultural exchange."

The 'Bil Emirati' segment showcases a diverse range of events celebrating local talent. Notable sessions include a discussion with HE Mohammed Al Murr and Faisal Abbas. Another session titled ‘Dubai: Home of Creativity’ features four authors with UAE Golden Visas: Mamdouh Hamada, Nabil Suleiman, Hawra Al-nadawi, and Amal Ismail.

In ‘Postmodern Prose,’ poets Khalid Albudoor and Asmaa Azaizeh lead discussions. ‘Collective Portrait of the Gulf’ explores regional culture with Emirati writer Salha Obaid, Saudi poet Abdulatif Yousef, and Omani novelist Mohamed Alyahyai. These sessions delve into the region's rich cultural narratives.

The agenda also includes ‘Blame it on Mum,’ where Haneen Al Sayegh and Rasha Samir explore motherhood's impact on identity. In ‘The Everlasting Walk,’ Dr. Mohammed Al Mansi Qindeel and Prof. Waciny Laredj discuss how cities influence literary works.

Celebrating Emirati Authors

The 'Bil Emirati' strand honours prominent Emirati writers like poet Adel Khozam, who introduced ‘Manseera: A Poetic Epic.’ Fatima Bint Ali presents her book ‘Contemporary Issue,’ while Rana Al Mutawa shares her work ‘Life In The Spectacular City.’ These presentations highlight significant contributions by local authors.

‘Mudun: Short Stories from the Arab World’ gathers notable regional writers. Lana Shamma joins editors Sultan Sooud AlQassemi, Faris Bseiso, Razmig Bedirian, and Reem Khorshid to present this anthology. The event underscores Barjeel Art Foundation’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent through the Mudun Short Story Prize.

Global Perspectives on Arabic Literature

In ‘Arabs Through Global Eyes,’ authors Sawsan Benarafa and Salha Ghabish examine Arabic literature’s worldwide influence. They discuss how it shapes global perceptions of Arabs. Meanwhile, ‘A Brave New World’ features Ahmed AlSadek, Hawra Al-nadawi, and director Nahla Al Fahad discussing technology's impact on creativity.

Additionally, the programme includes an 'Arabic Poetry and Qanoon Night,' showcasing poets like Abdulatif Yousef and Asmaa Azaizeh. The 'Emirati Publishers' Showcase' brings together pioneers such as Mohamed Almatrooshi to discuss publishing challenges and opportunities.

This cultural celebration is enriched by various sessions and artistic performances that enhance its appeal to audiences worldwide.

With inputs from WAM