In the old neighborhoods of Dubai, stories were once passed from elders to children under the open desert sky. This tradition, known as “Hakawati” in Arabic, remains alive through modern storytelling events that continue to captivate listeners. While the city races forward in design and technology, there’s a quiet reverence for oral heritage that hasn’t faded. These stories aren’t just entertainment—they’re memory, wisdom, and shared identity. Across Dubai, people of all ages gather to listen, reflect, and reconnect with the past. From historical tales to poetry recitals, the storytelling scene here is both timeless and relevant.
Where to find storytelling today in Dubai
Traditional storytelling has found new homes in cultural centers, cafes, and literature festivals throughout the city. Places like Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz occasionally host evenings centered around heritage and oral performance. Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) sometimes features multimedia-enhanced storytelling, blending visuals with spoken word. Jameel Arts Centre is another venue where intimate storytelling sessions are held, especially during special cultural events. Community cafés in neighborhoods like JLT and Downtown also host informal “open story” nights. These modern venues retain the intimacy of a traditional majlis while adding a contemporary touch. The best part? Many of them are open to both Arabic and English speakers.
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is a key annual event
Each year, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings global storytellers to Dubai. Held at the InterContinental in Dubai Festival City, the event features talks, readings, and performances across multiple languages. Storytellers from the UAE, South Asia, Africa, and Europe come together to celebrate narrative in all forms. There are sessions dedicated to Emirati folklore, children’s bedtime stories, and oral poetry. Audiences range from schoolchildren to academics, making the event both accessible and inspiring. This festival is one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East, and it serves as a meeting point for cultures through the lens of storytelling.
Dubai’s heritage villages host seasonal storytelling under the stars
If you’re looking for authenticity, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is the place to be. During winter evenings, especially around National Day or Ramadan, outdoor storytelling sessions take place in inner courtyards. These often involve traditional attire, coffee rituals, and sometimes even oud music in the background. Storytellers—many of whom are elders from Emirati families—share tales of desert life, pearl diving, or family honor. These events are free to attend and usually include audience interaction. It’s an ideal way to experience storytelling as it once was, surrounded by the architecture and rhythms of old Dubai.
How to participate in storytelling events
To join these events, you don’t need to be an expert or performer. Many sessions are designed for listeners who simply want to engage. Some events accept walk-ins, while others require prior registration through platforms like Dubai Calendar or event-specific apps. Arriving early helps you find a good seat, especially in popular venues. If you’re unsure where to start, follow community pages that promote cultural happenings. Several local Instagram accounts post regular updates about heritage and literature gatherings. Volunteering at cultural events can also offer backstage access and deeper connection with the organizers.
Storytelling isn’t just traditional—it’s also multilingual and contemporary
While many storytelling events are rooted in Arabic tradition, Dubai’s cosmopolitan nature means you’ll also find multilingual formats. English, Urdu, Malayalam, French, and Farsi sessions are often held depending on the theme or organizer. Events like Jashn-e-Rekhta celebrate Urdu literature and ghazal storytelling, bringing poetic rhythm to the stage. Other evenings feature African fables, Filipino myths, or contemporary immigrant tales told by residents of Dubai. The city’s diversity gives its storytelling a layered, cross-cultural richness that few places in the world can offer.
Dress, etiquette, and cultural awareness matter
While storytelling events are relaxed and welcoming, they still carry cultural weight. It’s important to dress modestly, especially for events hosted in heritage sites or during religious holidays. Photography is usually discouraged unless permission is given. Attendees are expected to be respectful—this means switching phones to silent, listening without interruption, and avoiding side conversations. During Ramadan, evening events may begin later to accommodate Iftar. We suggest bringing a light shawl if the event is held outdoors in winter months. Respect for space and tradition goes a long way in these gatherings.
Families and children are welcome in many storytelling sessions
Several events are designed with families in mind, especially at libraries and community parks. Venues like Mohammed Bin Rashid Library or Children’s City often host sessions where storytelling is mixed with drawing, music, or interactive play. These gatherings aim to foster creativity and curiosity among young listeners. In some sessions, children are even invited to share their own short stories. It’s a beautiful way for kids to build confidence, language skills, and a sense of belonging. And for parents, it offers a peaceful, enriching way to spend the weekend.
Storytelling is a wellness practice, too
In a fast-paced city like Dubai, sitting still and listening to a story can be grounding. Many residents attend storytelling nights as a form of emotional recharge. There’s a meditative quality in oral narrative—the way a voice rises and falls, the rhythm of words, the space between silences. This is especially true in poetry-focused events or those themed around personal growth. Some wellness centers have begun integrating storytelling into their mindfulness offerings. Whether you’re listening to tales of survival or self-discovery, the process of being present with a story can be deeply healing.
Storytelling in Dubai reminds us that every voice matters
Perhaps the greatest value of traditional storytelling in Dubai is this: it gives space for all voices. Whether you’re an artist, a student, a traveler, or a parent, there’s room for you to listen, reflect, and perhaps one day share your own story. In a city known for ambition and innovation, these quiet evenings of shared memory remind us of something older and softer—connection. Through story, we preserve identity, celebrate heritage, and build bridges between hearts. And in Dubai, those bridges are open to everyone.
This guide was prepared by the www.few.ae team.
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