Dubai Exporting Local Literary Talent programme supports 28 Emirati and UAE-based writers across 17 global literary platforms.
DUBAI: Dubai Exporting Local Literary Talent programme has enabled 28 Emirati and UAE-based writers to participate in 17 international literary platforms, reinforcing the emirate’s growing cultural footprint worldwide.
Led by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority in partnership with the Emirates Literature Foundation, the initiative operates under the Dubai Cultural Grant. Since its launch in June 2024, the programme has opened new global pathways for homegrown voices while strengthening Dubai’s creative economy ambitions.
Most recently, Dubai Culture supported writers including Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Ali Al Maazmi, Nadia Al Najjar and Salha Obaid at the Cairo International Book Fair, running until 3 February. Officials say the Dubai Exporting Local Literary Talent initiative is designed to foster intellectual exchange and international collaboration.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector, said the programme creates meaningful opportunities for writers to engage with global institutions and cultural forums. She noted it allows creatives to refine their voices while advancing Dubai’s broader cultural goals.
Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of Emirates Literature Foundation, added: “Writers from Dubai have stories the world needs to hear. They speak from a place that has undergone a transformation unlike anywhere else, in an extraordinarily short span of time.” She said the initiative ensures UAE authors are active contributors to global literary dialogue.
Between mid-2024 and late 2025, participants appeared at major festivals in the UK, Canada, Australia, India, Cyprus and Morocco. The Dubai Exporting Local Literary Talent programme also supports the emirate’s Quality of Life Strategy by nurturing sustainable creative careers.
Cultural leaders say the initiative positions Dubai as a dynamic hub where local narratives connect with international audiences, strengthening the UAE’s presence on the global cultural map.
