The Emirates Literature Foundation has finally revealed its lineup and programme highlights for the 2026 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. As revealed in a report of the Dubai Media Office, this happened at an exclusive event at the Theatre of Digital Art at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, it is the 18th edition of one of the world’s top 10 literary festivals.
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature Returns To Dubai
During an event, as revealed by Dubai Media Office, it was revealed that the new edition of the festival would take place at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. And this will take place from January 21st to 27th, 2026. Hosting a VIP panel, this will celebrate the book, ‘Life Taught Me’, which is authored by Sheikh Mohammed.
Several Recognisable Names To Be A Part Of The Event
Talking about the line-up, Several recognisable names such as RF Kuang, who is the author of Yellowface, Ruth Ware – the author of ‘The Woman in Cabin 10’ and Samantha Shannon, the author of ‘The Bone Season’ to name a few. You will certainly want to make your way to the event. Other renowned names that you can expect are as follows:
Ezzat Elkamhawi
Omar Taher
Dr. Shahla Ujayli
Rachel Clarke
Caleb Azumah Nelson
Writer Curtis Jobling
Ali Al Mazmi
Plestia Alaqad
Big Manny
MC Grammar
Asma Khan
Fan Favourites Make A Return
Fan favourites are also making a return to the LitFest stage. These include Shamma Al Bastaki, Oyinkan Braithwaite, Hoda Barakat, and, Saud Al Sanousi. Besides them, notable authors and poets will also be taking the centre stage here, including Shihab Ghanem, Al Owais Creativity award-winner; Nadia Al Najjar, Reem Al Kamali, and Fatima Al-Mazrouie. LitFest has rolled out an app for a seamless visitor experience. This includes everything from booking to check-in, which allows users to personalise their festival journey in an environmentally friendly way.
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More About LitFest!
Not to mention, it also gives access to itinerary reminders and special offers, all in a single place. With more than 200 sessions categorised into programmes into strands, and activity types, attendees will get to choose from events on the basis of their varied interests. There will be a writer’s corner that will be dedicated to storytellers of every kind. Additionally, Fantastic Fiction, which celebrates masterful storytelling in all its forms.
LitFest Families would offer a world of fun and excitement, while LitFest After Hours returns with a magical mix of music, comedy, and one-of-a-kind experiences. The tickets start at AED50, and there are also two passes that are available for visitors to enjoy. With the Conversations Pass, priced at AED400, it offers people a range of sessions in both English and Arabic. It is perfect for people who wish to explore a variety of discussions and literary perspectives.
As it happens, make sure to purchase your ticket before December 28th, as you can enjoy 15% off on the session price, using the Early Bird discount. With more than 200 speakers from 40 different countries, it’s truly an event that you absolutely cannot think of missing out. So go ahead and make plans already.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/DXBMediaOffice
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