The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2026 will be held from January 21 to 27 in Dubai. This 18th edition of the festival is a major literary event and is considered one of the world’s top ten literary festivals. The festival will take place at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2026 will feature over 200 sessions and more than 190 speakers from 40 nationalities. Famous authors like RF Kuang, Ruth Ware, Samantha Shannon, and Ezzat Elkamhawi are confirmed to attend. Returning fan favourites include Shamma Al Bastaki, Oyinkan Braithwaite, Hoda Barakat, and Shashi Tharoor. The festival highlights Emirati creativity through the ‘Bil Emirati’ strand and celebrates translation as a cultural bridge.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. The festival offers sessions like State of Now, How To, Fantastic Fiction, and Writers’ Corner. Families can join LitFest Families, and there are special evening events under LitFest After Hours. Ticket prices start at Dh50, with passes available for wider access. Early-bird discounts and exclusive perks for Foundation Friends are also offered.
Dubai Culture supports the Literary Luminary Prize, honouring Emirati storytellers. Special panels celebrate renowned Arab literary prizes like the Sheikh Zayed Book Award and Saif Ghobash Banipal Translation Prize. The festival app helps attendees manage bookings, reminders, and itineraries in an eco-friendly way.
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2026 promises a rich cultural experience. It connects audiences with global authors, inspiring curiosity, imagination, and a love for reading. For book lovers and culture enthusiasts, this festival is a must-visit event in Dubai.
