Famous Emirati Writers

Farah Chamma is a Palestinian spoken-word poet based in the United Arab Emirates. She is known for her multilingual abilities, speaking Arabic, English, French, and more. Chamma is a prominent figure in the "Poeticians Club" and the founder of the Parea band, blending music with spoken-word performances. She has participated in various events and festivals, showcasing her talent on international stages. Chamma has also released popular YouTube videos of her recitations and has a podcast focused on Arabic poetry. Additionally, she holds a master's degree in performance and culture from Goldsmiths, University of London.

Dina Butti is a versatile Egyptian/Canadian TV presenter, content creator, and voiceover artist known for her work on Dubai One, where she co-hosted the celebrity program "That's Entertainment" and currently hosts the evening lifestyle show "DXB Today." She has gained popularity as a content creator through her #mushmusicals parody videos, showcasing the journey of motherhood. Dina has collaborated with various global brands in campaigns and has hosted social media lives for companies such as Samsung and Virgin Megastore.

Afra Atiq is an accomplished Emirati spoken word poet with a Ph.D. in Media and Creative Industries. She co-founded Untitled Chapters, a group of female Emirati writers, and has transitioned to working as a full-time poet. Atiq's talent and dedication have been recognized through accolades such as being named the "Best Performer" by Rooftop Rhythms in 2015 and winning the Abu Dhabi Music and Art Foundation Creativity award for her powerful poem "An Open Letter to Cancer" in 2017.

Najah Al-Masa’eed is a prominent Bahraini poet and media figure known for her lyrical and expressive work. She has made significant contributions to the cultural and artistic scene in Bahrain and beyond. Through her poetry, Najah has touched on various themes, capturing the essence of human emotions and experiences. In the media realm, she has been involved in projects that aim to promote Bahraini talent and creativity. Najah's professional journey reflects a deep passion for storytelling and a commitment to enriching the cultural landscape.

Dubai Abulhoul is an accomplished Emirati author and columnist with a prolific career spanning multiple facets of the literary and intellectual world. As the CEO of the Fiker Institute, she leads a global affairs and governance think tank, while also contributing insightful perspectives as a columnist for prestigious newspapers like "Al Bayan" and "Gulf Today." Abulhoul's expertise and influence extend to international forums, where she serves as a member of the World Economic Forum's Future of Geopolitics Council and the COP28 President's Advisory Committee.

Maryam Saqer Al Qasimi is an accomplished Emirati writer known for her work in children's and young adult literature. She has published eight short stories for children, with one of her stories, "Where Did the Letters Disappear?", receiving critical acclaim by winning the Sharjah Children's Book Award in the young readers category in English language in 2018. This success led to the story being adapted into a musical play, showcasing Maryam's creative storytelling abilities and her impact on the world of children's literature.

Salha Obeid is a prominent Emirati writer and novelist known for her impactful works in the literary world. With the publication of two novels and three short-story collections, she has established herself as a talented and versatile writer. Her novel "Alzheimers" gained international recognition when it was translated into German, showcasing her ability to connect with a diverse audience. In 2016, she received the prestigious Al Owais Award for Creative Writing for her book "An Implicitly White Lock of Hair," solidifying her reputation as a gifted storyteller.

Eman Al Yousuf is an accomplished Emirati writer known for her novels and short stories. She has published three novels, including award-winning "Guard of the Sun," which has been translated into multiple languages. Eman made history as the first Emirati woman to attend the prestigious Program of International Writers at the University of Iowa. Additionally, she is a regular columnist in Emirati print media and has expanded her creative portfolio by writing a feminist short film titled "Ghafa."

Nadia Al Najjar is an accomplished Emirati writer known for her compelling works of fiction. With a focus on short stories and novels, she has garnered recognition for her literary contributions. Notably, her short story "Cities of Passion" secured the prestigious first place in the Emirates Award for Fiction in the Short Fiction category. Additionally, her novel "Trio D" was honored as the Best Emirati Book by an Emirati Creative Writer at the esteemed Sharjah International Book Fair. Al Najjar's writing showcases her talent and dedication to the craft, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in Emirati literature.

Zabya Khamis al-Muslimani is an Emirati poet and short story writer known for her innovative and boundary-pushing work. She studied philosophy, political science, and literature in the United States and later in London. Al-Muslimani faced adversity in her career when she was arrested for publishing "transgressive poetry" in Abu Dhabi. This incident led her to relocate to Egypt, where she continues to write and be recognized for her contributions to Arabic literature. Her works have been featured in English anthologies, showcasing her talent on an international platform.

Hessa Al Muhairi is an accomplished Emirati writer known for her contributions to children's literature. She has published two notable books, "Whose Footprints Are These?" and "Dinoraf", which have garnered praise for their engaging storytelling and educational value. In 2018, her book "The Dinoraf" received the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Book Award in the Category of Children's Literature, highlighting her talent and dedication to creating captivating and meaningful works that resonate with young readers. Her professional life is characterized by a commitment to producing high-quality literature that inspires and educates.

Nujoom Alghanem is an accomplished Emirati poet, artist, and film director with a significant impact in the Arab world. She has published eight poetry collections and directed over twenty films. Alghanem is a well-respected figure in the arts, known for her contributions to the community. She is the co-founder of Nahar Productions, a prominent film production company in Dubai. Alghanem also works as a professional mentor in filmmaking and creative writing, and serves as a cultural and media consultant. Her work has been recognized nationally and internationally, earning her prestigious accolades such as the Pride of the UAE Medal.

Asmaa bint Saqr Al Qasimi is a prominent female poet and the founder/CEO of Sadana Foundation for Thought and Literature. She has published 5 poetry books and is a member of the World Poetry Movement in Chile. As a respected figure in the literary world, she sponsors the Encyclopaedia of Arab Poets and her works have been translated into multiple languages. In addition to her literary pursuits, she holds leadership roles in various cultural and literary organizations, both locally and internationally, showcasing her dedication to promoting literature and poetry.