If you think literary festivals are all about stiff collars and hushed whispers over dog-eared classics, think again. The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, one of the world’s top ten literary festivals, is back with a bang from 29 January to 3 February 2025, and it’s about to redefine your weekend plans. Whether you’re a bookworm, a board game champ, or just someone who loves free music and good vibes, there’s something for everyone. And when the sun goes down, LitFest After Hours takes the stage at InterContinental Dubai Festival City to serve up a night to remember—without breaking the bank.
Let’s talk details. AED 50 for contemporary talks, plus a buffet of free entertainment that includes comedy, music, dance, mystery shows, and even board game battles? Throw in some delicious bites, and we’re basically talking a festival that moonlights as the ultimate weekend party. Ready to dive in?
Friday: Starting the Weekend Right
Had a rough week? Shake it off with a Friday lineup that’s as eclectic as your Spotify playlist. Kicking things off is Subhadra Das, the historian-comedian who’s here to roast the concept of Western civilization. Think TED Talk meets stand-up comedy—a masterclass in entertaining education.
For heartbreak warriors and self-love advocates, Harshita Gupta will dish out some serious wisdom on reclaiming your power. And for our Arabic-speaking friends, literary heavyweights Ahmed AlSadek, Hessa Abdullah, and Rasha Samir are set to explore the magical intersections of fantasy, history, and mythology. Fancy a coffee date? Majed Alahdal is hosting an immersive tasting experience while spilling the (coffee) beans on its rich history.
As the sun dips below the horizon, prepare for a bubble show that’ll make you feel like a kid again, followed by soulful musical performances by talents like Adam Mezi, Zarooni & Friends, and Indian folk musicians Shrimant Dhol Tasha Pathak, who’ll keep your feet moving well into the night.
Saturday: Games, Crime, and Radical Conversations
Saturday starts with a twist—literally. Neuroscientist Kelly Clancy will reveal how games have shaped everything from wartime strategies to AI. Feeling competitive? Join Superheated Neurons for a board game battle featuring over 300 titles tailored for every skill level.
Crime junkies, this one’s for you. Watch screenwriter MJ Arlidge and friends whip up a crime novel live on stage. Meanwhile, cultural critic Emma Dabiri will tackle the rollercoaster of body image with her empowering perspective.
Need a laugh? Catch a comedic crew, led by Danabelle Gutierrez, offering hilariously unqualified advice on life’s trickiest dilemmas. And for lovers of “black comedy,” Mamdouh Hamada and Ahmed AlSadek will peel back the layers of humor in life’s darkest moments.
Still have energy? Dance the night away with a dabke folk performance or groove to tunes by Ibby VK, Wet Grass Music Collective, and Phat G. Pro tip: Save room for comedy and music—Shaddy Gaad, Salman Qureshi, and friends are ready to leave you in stitches.
Sunday: A Grand Finale
The festival closes with a symphony of sights and sounds. Start the day with a march to the beat of the Dubai Police Band and end it with a soulful performance by vocalist Junior Brown and guitarist Paolo, blending rock, soul, and R&B like a fine cocktail. It’s the kind of night that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear—and maybe even planning your outfit for next year’s festival.
So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re here for the books, the banter, or just a good excuse to dance under the Dubai sky, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature has your name written all over it. See you there—bubbles, beats, and all!
