Mohammed Bin Rashid Library Explores Emirati Presence in International Prize for Arabic Fiction

Dubai, UAE, 25 June 2026: In collaboration with Al Muntada, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, organised a panel discussion titled Emiratis in the International Prize for Arabic Fiction. Moderated by Ayesha Sultan, the session featured Salha Obeaid, Nadia Al Najjar, Dr. Maryam Al Hashmi, and Zaina Al Shami. With a large turnout, the session reflected strong interest in the Emirati literary scene and its ongoing evolution.

 

The discussion examined the notable presence of Emirati authors in the International Prize for Arabic Fiction (IPAF), commonly known as the Arabic Booker Prize, as an indicator of the maturity of the Emirati novel and its growing prominence within the Arab literary landscape. It also highlighted the development achieved by Emirati fiction in artistic structure, language, and subject matter.

 

Participants addressed the ability of this narrative achievement to reflect the social and cultural transformations taking place in Emirati society, while preserving its local character and drawing inspiration from its environment and identity. Simultaneously, Emirati novels have increasingly engaged with universal human issues and questions, giving Emirati literature a broader international dimension and expanding its influence and reach.

 

Furthermore, the session explored the cultural implications of this achievement. This presence was viewed as a valuable addition to both the Emirati and Arab literary scene,  as an expression of the vitality of the country's literary movement and its growing visibility within prestigious Arab literary awards. The discussion also noted that such recognition contributes to reshaping perceptions of Emirati fiction across the Arab region, and offers larger opportunities for readership, critical engagement, and translation.

 

Attendees emphasised the importance of transforming these experiences into a source of knowledge and creativity by sharing expertise, expanding interaction between literary generations, and providing broader opportunities for mentorship and critical reading. They also stressed the need to promote writing workshops and initiatives that nurture emerging narrative talents, thereby helping to ensure the continuity and renewal of the Emirati novelistic project.

 

The session concluded by affirming that the Emirati presence in the Booker Prize marks a milestone in the development of local fiction, and reflects its transition to a more influential position within the Arab literary sphere.