Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has launched a comprehensive program of workshops and storytelling sessions across Dubai Public Libraries for Reading Month 2025. Held under the theme “UAE Reads,” this initiative aligns with the National Policy for Reading 2026, aiming to foster literary appreciation, enhance cultural engagement, and highlight the profound impact of reading on individuals and communities.
Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant creative ecosystem. He stated, “Reading Month is an annual literary and intellectual celebration that strengthens cultural values and promotes knowledge across society. It also honors writers, intellectuals, and thought leaders by encouraging initiatives that inspire an enlightened generation capable of shaping the nation’s future.”
Dubai Culture has curated an extensive calendar of events throughout the month, providing residents with opportunities to explore diverse literary fields and access valuable books that enrich minds and expand perspectives.
Dubai Culture: A Diverse Line-Up of Literary Events
Taking place from 20 February to 31 March, Reading Month will feature engaging literary discussions and storytelling events led by renowned authors and speakers. One of the highlights includes a session at Al Safa Art & Design Library, presented in collaboration with the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation. Noted writer and researcher Abdul Ghaffar Hussain will present his book Witness to the Era of Zayed, offering insights into the formative years of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in Al Ain. Additionally, author Obeid Ibrahim Bu Melha will discuss his novel The Soldier’s War in a dedicated session at the same venue.
Further enriching the program, journalist Ayesha Sultan will conduct a workshop on journalistic writing techniques titled Newspaper Article. Participants will visit the Burj Rashid art exhibition for inspiration before submitting their articles for the Arab Youth Media Creativity Award.
As part of the Library Talks series within the School of Life program, Al Safa Art & Design Library will also welcome filmmaker and creative director Mustafa Jawad for Animation Essentials: From Concept to Creativity. This workshop will guide attendees through idea development, scriptwriting, character design, animation techniques, and editing.
Dubai Culture: Interactive Learning for Young Readers
For younger audiences, Dubai Public Libraries has designed an engaging lineup of interactive sessions. At Al Twar Library, Ayesha Almarzooqi will lead The Pencil Who Found Himself, a workshop developed in collaboration with the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children. Additionally, library staff will introduce children to theatrical storytelling through the Theatre World workshop, highlighting theatre as a medium for cultural expression and dialogue.
At Al Rashidiya Library, young readers can enjoy a reading of My Friend, the Lion, a story by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which emphasizes the values of courage and resilience. Meanwhile, author Maitha AlKhayat and illustrator Hessa Almheiri will host a workshop on The Pearl Diver’s Necklace and the Cowrie Necklace, sharing insights into the creative process behind their award-winning book. In collaboration with the Dubai Women’s Association, the library will also present Mahra and the Pearls, where participants will design accessories using pearls.
Promoting Cultural Awareness and Accessibility
At Al Mankhool Library, author Ruba Younes will lead A Journey of a Book, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the book-writing process. Experts from Arabically will conduct Arabic in Nature: Pomegranate, exploring the linguistic and cultural significance of the fruit. Additionally, Umm Suqeim Library will host three interactive storytelling sessions, including A Long Eye and The Turtle Looks for Its Mother, engaging children in environmental awareness activities.
The Read Forum, hosted at Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Islamic Institute and Sakina bint Al Hussein School, will feature a series of workshops focused on literature and writing. Dubai Public Libraries will also showcase its diverse services and resources through a dedicated exhibition space.
Visitors to Al Safa Art & Design Library can join a reading of Memory for Sale with author Sarah Abdullah in collaboration with the Dubai Women’s Association. Meanwhile, at Hatta Library, young guests will celebrate Arabic language learning through the Letters Balloon workshop. The International Faces storytelling experience will introduce children to inspiring figures from both local and global contexts. Additionally, in partnership with the Kalimat Foundation, Dubai Public Libraries will organize a special Braille reading session for People of Determination at Al Khawaneej Majles.
Encouraging Sustainable Knowledge Sharing
In a parallel initiative, Dubai Culture, in partnership with Dubai International Financial Centre, will launch a Used Book Sale in conjunction with Zayed Humanitarian Day. This initiative will offer an extensive selection of books across various disciplines at prices ranging from AED 2 to AED 10, encouraging sustainable knowledge-sharing and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
Reading Month 2025 serves as a testament to Dubai Culture’s unwavering commitment to literacy, cultural engagement, and creative expression, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global center for knowledge and artistic excellence
