- A gripping tale blending Emirati folklore, history, and the supernatural.
- Explores identity, spirituality, and the unseen forces shaping destiny.
- Immersive storytelling brings Al Jazirah Al Hamra’s ghostly legends to life.
- A must-read for fans of cultural fantasy and Arabian mythology.
Few books master the delicate balance between reality and myth as seamlessly as The Red Island: The Gatekeeper by Adil Alzarooni. Set against the eerie backdrop of Al Jazirah Al Hamra in Ras Al Khaimah, this gripping novel takes readers on a journey through Emirati history, folklore, and the supernatural. More than just a fantasy story, The Red Island delves into personal struggles, the weight of tradition, and the timeless battle between good and evil—all while showcasing a side of the UAE rarely explored in literature.
The novel follows Badr, a young man who finds himself drawn to the abandoned town of Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a place steeped in ghostly legends and whispers of the supernatural. What starts as a simple visit soon spirals into an intense confrontation with jinns, dark magic, and forces beyond his comprehension. As Badr is thrust into a world where the lines between the real and the mystical blur, he is forced to confront his own fears, insecurities, and the heavy burden of his past.
Alzarooni masterfully weaves elements of Emirati culture into the narrative, incorporating Islamic spirituality, old Bedouin myths, and the region’s deep-rooted belief in the unseen. The novel does not just tell a story—it immerses readers in a world where ancient traditions still hold power, and where unseen forces shape the fate of individuals.
Beyond its supernatural elements, The Red Island is a deeply introspective novel. Badr’s journey is more than just a battle against dark forces—it is a search for identity, a confrontation with personal demons, and a reckoning with the expectations placed upon him by family and society. Alzarooni paints a poignant picture of a man caught between the old and the new, between heritage and modernity, between logic and faith.
For those unfamiliar with Emirati culture, the novel serves as a fascinating glimpse into the region’s traditions, values, and spiritual beliefs. From the practice of ruqyah (Islamic healing) to the local folklore surrounding jinns, The Red Island offers a window into an aspect of the UAE rarely explored in mainstream literature.
What makes The Red Island stand out is its immersive storytelling. Alzarooni’s writing is atmospheric, bringing the abandoned ruins of Al Jazirah Al Hamra to life with vivid descriptions and a hauntingly beautiful setting. The tension builds at just the right pace, keeping readers engaged without overwhelming them with information. The novel’s blend of history, spirituality, and horror creates a uniquely captivating experience—one that feels like stepping into an ancient legend passed down through generations.
If you enjoy books that mix cultural heritage with supernatural intrigue, The Red Island: The Gatekeeper is a must-read. It offers a refreshing departure from Western-centric fantasy by rooting its mystical elements in the rich and often-overlooked folklore of the Arabian Peninsula. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is more than just a thrilling read—it is a cultural experience.
Adil Alzarooni has crafted a novel that not only entertains but also preserves and reintroduces the oral traditions of the UAE to a modern audience. Whether you are a lover of historical fiction, paranormal tales, or deeply personal narratives, The Red Island will leave a lasting impression.
Grab your copy now at Magrudy’s and Kinokuniya across the UAE!
You can explore more about the book here.