Isobel Abulhoul
Founder, Advisor and Trustee
Emirates Literature Foundation
Isobel Abulhoul OBE is a prominent cultural leader in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), best known as the founder of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, the region’s largest celebration of books and storytelling. She co‑founded Magrudy’s bookshop chain in 1975 and has been a driving force behind promoting reading and literacy across the UAE. She also serves as a trustee and former CEO of the Emirates Literature Foundation, and holds several influential cultural and literary roles, including positions with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library and the International Prize for Arabic Fiction.
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Parents, You Matter!
Reading isn't just for school - in fact reading begins from the earliest possible days of a child's life when they are read to. Enjoy an interactive session that delves into the myriad ways of engaging with children through books and reading.
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Establishing Book Clubs - Triumphs and Tribulations
This panel explores how book clubs are formed, sustained, and leveraged to build reading communities across educational and social contexts.
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Welcome Address: Isobel Abulhoul, Emirates Literature Foundation
Isobel Abulhoul OBE, founder, trustee and advisor of the Emirates Literature Foundation, will open the conference and share her life-long love of reading.
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Reading for Pleasure School Awards
Join us as we honour our Reading for Pleasure partner schools.
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