DUBAI: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the ninth edition of the Reading Box, set to take place from 9th to 18th October at City Centre Mirdif. This event aims to expand the reading culture among children and adults, encouraging them to explore the world of books. It is part of Dubai Culture’s efforts to support the National Literacy Strategy 2016–2026, promoting cultural values and making reading a daily habit in society.

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The Reading Box, part of the School of Life initiative, will feature 55 inspiring sessions, including poetry evenings and creative workshops. These activities will help participants develop skills in storytelling, literary writing, and Arabic calligraphy, as well as engage in discussions with prominent writers, poets, and intellectuals from the UAE and beyond.

Eiman Al Hammadi, Manager of Libraries Affairs at Dubai Culture, emphasized the importance of this initiative, calling it a vital platform that encourages individuals to access knowledge, build creative thinking skills, and explore the rich literary scene of Dubai. She noted that the Reading Box aligns with Dubai Culture’s mission to build an educated generation that contributes to sustainable development and strengthens Dubai’s position as a global cultural hub.

The programme includes various workshops and sessions aimed at different age groups. For example, children aged 6 to 9 can join Emirati author Sara Galadari for the “What is Home?” session, a whimsical adventure exploring friendship and belonging. Additionally, Afreen Nizam will host a “3D Paper Craft Activity” for children aged 7 to 12, sparking creativity through designing characters inspired by beloved tales like Aladdin.

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Other workshops include Arabic calligraphy sessions for adults and youth, led by Hazem Kurdali, and a session on healthy eating habits for parents by nutrition coach Nouf Al Watban. The event will also feature a panel discussion on “The Power of Poetry,” where Emirati poets will explore the emotional depth and personal expression in poetry.