Emirates LitFest 2025: A literary extravaganza with global icons and captivating experiences

Book lovers, rejoice!

One of Dubai’s most anticipated literary events, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, will run from Jan. 29 to Feb. 3, 2025. Returning for its 17th edition at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, the festival promises another year of enriching discussions, inspiring workshops, and bookish delights.

With heavily discounted books and a 2025 program designed to captivate even the most discerning bibliophiles, the festival boasts everything from insights by major authors to hands-on sessions for aspiring writers.

Key Speakers

A hallmark of Emirates LitFest is its lineup of literary superstars, bringing fresh perspectives and riveting stories to the stage. Here are some of the highlights:

Abraham Verghese

The celebrated American writer will be a major draw this year. His latest book, The Covenant of Water—a sweeping saga spanning three generations of a Kerala family—spent 37 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. He will take the stage solo on Jan. 31 and join Australian author Pip Williams for a conversation on Feb. 3.

Abdulrazak Gurnah

Nobel Prize-winning author of After Lives will feature in a special event on Feb. 1, reflecting on his incredible journey. On Feb. 2, he will join Chigozie Obioma, award-winning author of The Fishermen, for a panel exploring how fiction fosters empathy and bridges human divides.

Nobel laureate Abdulrazak Gurnah will be a visiting speaker at Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2025 in Dubai.mirateslitfest.com

Hala Gorani

The Emmy-winning former CNN journalist will share insights from her memoir, But You Don’t Look Arab, in a thought-provoking session on Feb. 2. She will also join a panel discussion, Media and the Middle East, exploring the intersection of journalism, culture, and identity.

Lemony Snicket

Fans of A Series of Unfortunate Events are in for a treat as the enigmatic author, also known as Daniel Handler, makes a rare in-person appearance. Catch him in sessions on Feb. 1 and Feb. 2, where he’ll bring his trademark wit and creativity to the festival.

Jeff Kinney

The author and illustrator behind the beloved Diary of a Wimpy Kid series promises a fun-filled experience with Hot Mess, an interactive show for children. Join him on Jan. 31 and Feb. 2 for an unforgettable literary adventure tailored for young readers.

Find the full list of visiting guests here. https://litfesttickets.emirateslitfest.com/author?...

Special events

Emirates LitFest is more than just books; it’s an experience for everyone—from literature aficionados to casual attendees!

• Desert Stanzas: Held under the stars at Caravanserai Desert Camp in Jebel Ali, this much-loved event returns, blending poetry, storytelling, and a buffet dinner in a magical desert setting.
• Qanoon and Poetry Night: For a city-based alternative, head to the Theatre of Digital Art for an evening celebrating poetry and music.

LitFest After Hours, a music, poetry and storytelling event at Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2024 in Dubai.WAM

Family fun

• Darryl Gadzekpo and Ella Phillips will teach kids how to grow ingredients without a garden and turn them into delicious meals.
• Ross Welford, known for his imaginative time-travel adventures, will lead a session to inspire young readers.
• Helen Farmer, UAE radio personality and children’s author, will present her debut book, adding a local flair to the family-friendly lineup.

While some events are free, many are ticketed, so it’s wise to book early. Check out ticket prices here.

Whether you’re a die-hard bibliophile or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2025 promises to be an unmissable event!