A group of students from the University of Birmingham, who learn Arabic alongside their main subject of study as part of the university’s ‘Languages for All’ programme, recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to the Emirates Literature Festival in Dubai. Accompanied by their course leader, the students, who flew from Birmingham, U.K., represented the university as Youth Ambassadors at the International Youth Programme from January 29th to February 3rd, 2025. There they engaged in literary discussions, networking, and a variety of social and cultural exchange activities alongside over 150 other Arabic-speaking university students from across the world.

The festival opened with an impressive line-up of speakers which included U.A.E.’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Chief Operating Officer of Investment Corporation Dubai, and their Minister of Youth Affairs, who also happens to double as an astronaut. All speakers welcomed active dialogue and engaged in thought provoking discussion on the intersection of technology, investment, AI, and youth leadership. Their insights highlighted the U.A.E.’s commitment to innovation and the development of a new generation of leaders who are equipped to navigate an evolving global backdrop. One of the most perspective-shifting discussions was delivered by Professor Yasir Suleiman, University of Cambridge, who examined the role of literary criteria in Arabic awards, the challenges of Arabic publishing, and the ways in which the International Prize for Arabic Fiction shapes the literary landscape.

Beyond the panels, students ventured into the vibrant atmosphere of Global Village, an international cultural hub where they embraced a diversity of cuisine, performances, and traditions from around the world.

Youth Ambassadors were also offered an insight into novel learning methodologies for language acquisition. A workshop hosted by the WikiMedia Foundation highlighted how Wikipedia and other WikiTools can support in practicing, improving and applying Arabic language. A programme highlight was the student’s participation in the ‘Connectathon’. This was a ceremony where students exchanged cultural items from their hometowns. In celebration of the University’s 125th anniversary, UoB students proudly presented a three-dimensional miniature model of ‘Old Joe’ to students of King Abdulaziz University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A.), and shared its historical significance with the audience. In exchange, UoB was kindly gifted an ‘Al Mangabi’ stone. This is material deeply embedded within the architecture of Jeddah, K.S.A. The stone has a played a pivotal role in the city’s heritage and also reflects Jeddah’s enduring connection to the Red Sea.
In addition to this, the programme invited a highly anticipated session with the Editorial Team of Mudun: Arab Short Stories from Around the World, a unique literary project born during the pandemic. The panel provided valuable insights into the selection process and shed light on the themes that emerged organically, as well as the criteria used to curate the final collection. The Editors shared their experiences of collaborating across borders, the challenges of capturing contemporary Arab experiences in fiction, and the significance of storytelling in preserving cultural identity. The session offered a fascinating glimpse into the creative journey behind Mudun, celebrating the power of literature to connect communities and transcend geographical boundaries.

Students were all ears to a compelling discussion headed by renowned journalist and author Hala Gorani, a former CNN anchor and writer of But You Don’t Look Arab And Other Tales of Unbelonging. Her session explored the complexities of identity, belonging, and media representation, offering an intellectually enriching analysis of how the Arab world is portrayed in global media. Drawing on her 24-year career as a Syrian woman in international journalism, Gorani shared deeply personal reflections on traversing an industry often fashioned by Western narratives. A key lesson from her discussion was the importance of reclaiming one’s own narrative. Gorani encouraged the audience to challenge simplified or negative portrayals by amplifying authentic voices and stories from the region. She also spoke about the role of media literacy, stressing that audiences must actively seek out multiple sources to form a well-rounded understanding of global events but do not necessarily need to agree with all perspectives. Before concluding the programme, students observed a cultural visit to the Emirate of Fujairah. Steeped in rich history, the region enthralled visitors with its with its ancient forts, charming villages, and the U.A.E.’s oldest mosque dating back to 1446 AD. The visit to the Fujairah Philosophy House added another layer to the experience for students. A blend of historical insights with modern reflections was complimented with delightful al fresco dining in the gardens of Philosophy House.

The festival culminated in a bittersweet closing ceremony that marked the proud end of the programme. The evening was blended with celebration and nostalgia as participants reflected on the experiences and relationships they had formed. Everyone involved found this once in a lifetime experience deeply impactful. The students strengthened their appreciation for Arabic language and literature in the heart of the Arab world, improved their language skills and cultural awareness, and forged international connections that have left an enduring imprint on their outlooks and aspirations.

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