10 Must-Read Books by Emirati Authors

The UAE’s literary scene has been flourishing in recent years, with Emirati authors bringing unique perspectives and compelling stories to the world stage. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just dipping your toes into Emirati literature, here are ten must-read books by Emirati authors that you shouldn’t miss.

كونار by Hend Saif Al Bar

The story is about Kunar, a mischievous genie, is trapped in a lantern by the king of the jinn and banished to the human world. When the young woman Ruqaya erases the lantern, Kunar appears and forces her to sign a contract to work as a maid in his palace for a year. Her life changes dramatically as she crosses into the world of the jinn, where she faces many challenges, experiences love, and endures both happy and sad moments.

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You, Me, & All The In-Betweens: This is who we are by Shaikha Humaid Al Bakhit

This book offers a poetic journey through life’s highs and lows, tugging at your heartstrings and provoking deep thought. The author’s open-ended approach allows each reader to have a unique, personal connection with the poetry. Fair warning prepare for a couple tears to shed!

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The Sand Fish by Maha Gargash

This novel is a captivating tale set in 1950s Dubai, following the life of Noora, a fiercely independent girl, who flees her brother’s demands for marriage. Heartbroken after a failed romance, she returns home to an arranged marriage, feeling trapped and fearing her inability to conceive. A secret affair with her husband’s apprentice finally leads to a pregnancy she must protect at all costs.

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Dubai Tales by Mohammad Al Murr

In these 21 stories set in Dubai, Al Murr explores the complexities of domestic life amid rampant materialism and hypocrisy. With concise prose and a keen sense of humor, he depicts characters navigating deceitful relationships and unexpected twists of fate. While the stories offer compelling situations, their brevity and focus on plot twists sometimes limit deeper insights into human nature.

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Desperate in Dubai by Ameera Al Hakawati

In “Desperate in Dubai,” the stakes are higher than designer handbags. Leila seeks a wealthy husband, Nadia’s sacrifices for her husband are unappreciated, Sugar flees her past in the UK, and Lady Luxe rebels against her culture. Amidst luxury and opulence, these women search for truth and love, facing personal challenges that threaten to unravel their lives.

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The Black Book Of Arabia by Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi

Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi weaves captivating tales of love, betrayal, and heroism from the Arabian Gulf, revealing the personal lives of a diverse cast of characters, from princesses to paupers and sultans to sorcerers. Meet a princess betrayed by her best friend, a bride who goes blind on her wedding day, a woman with an ill-fated Parisian honeymoon, and a jealous wife setting a trap for her husband. These engaging, candid stories are sure to resonate with readers globally.

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البلوش وبلادهم في دليل الخليج 1908-1515 by Ahmed Yaqoub Almaazmi

This book explores the history of the Baloch people, who have significantly influenced the Gulf and Southwest Asia. Despite limited Arab and international attention, their history remains hidden among the mountains and deserts of Balochistan. The book compiles crucial chapters from this history, presenting a comprehensive account of the Baloch and their homeland.

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Love, Death, Fame by Al-Māyidī Ibn Ẓāhir

“Love, Death, Fame” showcases the poetry of al-Māyidī ibn Ẓāhir, considered the earliest poet of the UAE. His work blends wisdom and romance with vivid scenes of clouds, rain, desert migrations, seafaring, and pearl diving. As a prime example of Nabaṭī poetry, it merges the vernacular of the Arabian Peninsula with ancient Arabic imagery, providing a unique glimpse into life in the region four centuries ago.

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الحي الحي by Ali AlShaali

The dream of reincarnation has long fascinated many. In a sharp critique of a society that rose from poverty to global elegance, Ali AlShaali’s fast-paced novel takes us from Jumeirah Beach to the life of a beauty hospital owner. He promises his clients enhanced beauty, but life surprises him with something far more profound.

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خيرة by Aisha Sultan Abu Shabs

This book explores the idea of fate and resilience, questioning how we react when life presents unexpected challenges. It delves into whether we stick to our paths, abandon them, or face them head-on, and reflects on the belief that our destinies, written by a higher power, may be better than we can imagine. Life’s unpredictability and our responses to it are central themes.

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So, whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the poetic beauty of Ali Al Shaali’s verses or the historical narratives of Ahmed Yaqoub Almaazmi, these ten books are a great starting point. Happy reading!

Lead image courtesy of Goodreads