Dubai, Emirates

Dr Afra Atiq is an Emirati scholar and poet. She a PhD in Media and Creative Industries and a Master’s degree in diplomacy. Her research focuses on mapping the Arab literary sphere, education, literacy, social media effects and collective memory. She has won numerous awards for her poetry and has been featured on stages across the world. She writes and performs in a blend of English, Arabic, and French. She’s a founding member of Untitled Chapters – a community for Emirati women writers.

Danabelle Gutierrez is a multi-awarded writer, actress, and photographer. She is the author of poetry books I Long To Be The River and & Until The Dreams Come and chapbooks Eventually, The River Surrenders, and Softer. Born in Las Piñas and raised in Cairo, Vienna, and Muscat, Danabelle now lives in Dubai and is currently working on her next book Tears Across The Earth.

Born and raised in the UAE, with roots in Oman and Zanzibar, Arqam is a young Emirati Soul singer trying to make a difference with music and conscious entrepreneurship. His music reflects the embodiment of the UAE, where the old values meet the new and progressive – a mix of old school soul with neo-soul beats, with lyrics rooted in positivity, introspection, love, and search for purpose.

Ahlam Bolooki is the Director of the Emirates Festival of Literature - the Middle East’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word. With a mission of inspiring all, including non-readers, to read for pleasure, Ahlam is responsible for devising strategy and curating a diverse, inclusive and enlightening festival programme. With appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds, the festival attracts fresh ideas and forward thinking, promoting a more empathetic society. Ahlam has also worked as Head of Regional Campaigns at Dubai Tourism - the principal authority responsible for strengthening Dubai’s position as a world-leading tourism destination.