Book lovers, creatives, and curious minds, mark your calendars. The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is back for its 18th edition, running from January 21 to 27 at InterContinental Dubai Festival City, and this year’s lineup is packed with powerful conversations, hands-on workshops, and immersive experiences.

Bringing together writers, thinkers, journalists, artists, and storytellers from around the world, the festival continues to be one of the region’s biggest cultural highlights. Organised by the Emirates Literature Foundation and supported by partners including Dubai Culture, Emirates NBD, Dubai Airports, and DEWA, the event celebrates creativity in all its forms, from literature and science to fantasy, poetry, and pop culture.

Whether you’re a writer looking to get published, a reader hunting for fresh perspectives, or just someone who loves a good story, there’s something here for everyone, including family-friendly activities, workshops, game nights, and even movie screenings.

From interesting conversations to creative workshops and immersive experiences, this year’s festival has something for everyone. Here are 10 standout events you won’t want to miss:

1. The Eyes of Gaza by Plestia Alaqad
Journalist Plestia Alaqad shares deeply personal accounts of life in Gaza, as documented in her debut book The Eyes of Gaza. The session offers a firsthand perspective on living through conflict and resilience amid destruction.
When: January 25 (from 2pm-3pm)
Tickets:  Dh75

2. Quick Pitches with Jemimah Forrester, Meredith Miller & Oli Munson
Three top literary agents. Three chances to get published. Aspiring authors can pitch their manuscript, including a synopsis and first five pages, to agents from United Talent Agency, David Higham, and A.M. Heath.
When: January 21 (Oli Munson & Meredith Miller); January 22 (Jemimah Forrester)
Time: 2:30pm–4:30pm; 11:30am–1:30pm; 10am–12pm respectively
Tickets: Dh240 per session

3. Nature’s Palette: Exploring Botanical Illustration by Sue Wickison
A hands-on masterclass blending botany and art. Sue Wickison guides participants through the techniques of botanical illustration, perfect for artists and nature lovers alike.
When: January 23 (9:30am–12pm)
Tickets: Dh300

4. What Will People Think by Sara Hamdan
Author Sara Hamdan discusses her debut novel and explores themes of integrity, identity, and societal stigma, particularly as they relate to Arab women and modern society.
When: January 23 (6pm–7pm)
Tickets: Dh50

5. The Science of Love and Happiness by Paul Dolan
Paul Dolan delves into the science behind love and happiness, unpacking the psychological, chemical, and physical responses that shape human emotions.
When: January 23 (7pm–8pm)
Tickets: Dh50

6. Qafia: Poetry at the Heart of the Cultural Economy by Abdullah Al-Marshad
A poetic and thought-provoking evening exploring how culture and creativity contribute to economic and social sustainability in the Arab world.
When: January 23 (7:30pm–8:30pm)
Tickets: Dh50

7. Ka-Pow! Create Your Own Comic Cover by Jane Pica
A fun, nostalgic workshop where participants design their own comic book covers with illustrator Jane Pica — perfect for all ages and skill levels.
When: January 24 (6pm–8pm)
Tickets: Free

8. Dungeons and Dragons: Epic Fantasy
Making its festival debut, this immersive D&D session invites participants into a world of mythical creatures and epic quests, led by Dungeon Master Simran Vora.
When: January 24 (8pm–9:30pm)
Tickets: Dh50

9. Murder Mystery Dinner: Highrise Homicide
Step into an exclusive penthouse and unravel a thrilling mystery filled with rival agents, scandal, and suspense during this interactive dinner experience.
When:January 23 (8pm–10pm)
Tickets: Dh425

10. Walk for Inclusion
Join Paralympian and author Jessica Smith for a 2.5km community walk promoting inclusivity and wellness, followed by the discussion Representation Matters with Tia Watson.
When: January 24 (8:30am–9:30am)
Tickets: Free

For more information and the full festival programme, visit emirateslitfest.com.

(By Shura Kola)