- Emirates LitFest 2026 runs from January 21 to January 27.
- Scott Walker shares high pressure decision making tips for business leaders.
- Chef Asma Khan hosts a seasonal six course Indian dinner.
- Journalist Plestia Alaqad discusses humanity and resilience in her debut.
January in Dubai usually brings perfect weather, but this year it also brings a flood of creative energy as the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature returns. From January 21 to January 27, the InterContinental at Dubai Festival City will host a week dedicated to the power of the written and spoken word. This isn’t just a quiet library gathering, it is a vibrant hub where culinary stars, hostage negotiators, and global journalists collide.
Modern audiences are moving away from passive consumption toward experiences that offer genuine personal growth or cultural connection. The 2026 lineup taps into this trend by offering a “Business Breakfast” featuring former Scotland Yard negotiator Scott Walker. He will break down how to stay calm and perform when the stakes are at their highest, providing a masterclass in leadership that goes far beyond the typical boardroom lecture.
For those looking to blend intellectual curiosity with social connection, the “LitFest After Hours” sessions provide a perfect evening escape. Behavioral psychologist Paul Dolan will dive into the science of love and happiness, exploring the chemistry that keeps us in sync. Meanwhile, foodies can join Netflix star Asma Khan for a six-course journey through the seasons of Bengal. She uses her heritage and personal story to demonstrate how food acts as a universal language for resilience and unity.
The festival also ensures that the next generation is just as engaged. MC Grammar is set to take the stage with a high-energy session that turns spelling and punctuation into a rap and rhythm performance for kids. It is an innovative way to make learning feel like a concert rather than a classroom. Additionally, the festival provides a platform for urgent global voices, such as journalist Plestia Alaqad, who will share her lived experience documenting humanity in Gaza.
Whether you want to catch free performances at the Fringe or dive deep with a Conversations Pass, this week promises to challenge your perspective and spark new ideas. The event reflects Dubai’s commitment to being a global cultural crossroads where every story finds a home.
Explore the full schedule and secure your tickets at litfesttickets.emirateslitfest.com.
