UAE Minister of Culture and Youth Noura Al Kaabi, director-general of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority Hala Badri, Rafia Ghubash, founder of the Women’s Museum, and president of the International Publishers Association Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi. These are just a few of the women shaping Emirati culture today.
The creative sector is replete with inspiring examples of Emirati women who are helping the country’s cultural scene flourish. and this is especially true when it comes to literature.
Ahlam Bolooki, director of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, says there is no better time to highlight the contributions and impact of female Emirati writers than on Emirati Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually on August 28.
We sat down with the festival director to learn more about five of the female Emirati authors shaking up the literary scene.
Reem AlKamali
“When it comes to literary talent, Reem AlKamali’s runs through her veins,” Bolooki says. The author and journalist won the 2015 Al Owais Creativity Award for Saltanat Hurmoz and the 2018 Sharjah Award for Creativity for Statue of Delma.
“Both books are rich in history and culture, with deeply interesting and original characters in breathtaking story settings,” Bolooki says. “With her noticeable production and participation in the local and international cultural society, AlKamali is definitely a name to remember.”
Maytha Al Khayat
“Author and illustrator Maytha Al Khayat is a special kind of superhero who takes her love for storytelling to another level with 160 books published in less than 10 years,” Bolooki says.
“Through her captivating writing and illustrating skills, Maytha has beautifully introduced the culture of the GCC to both children and adults. Books like…