- “The Sand Fish” by Maha Gargash: This novel follows the story of Noora, a young girl living in 1950s Dubai, as she navigates through love, cultural restrictions, and societal changes.
- “The Dove’s Necklace” by Raja Alem: Set in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this novel explores the mystery surrounding the murder of a Sudanese maid and the complex social dynamics of the Arabian Gulf region.
- “Henna House” by Nomi Eve: Although primarily set in Yemen, this novel also features the United Arab Emirates as the protagonist must leave her homeland due to political unrest and seeks refuge in Dubai.
- “City of Veils” by Zoë Ferraris: This crime novel is set in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and delves into the city’s underbelly as a female medical examiner investigates a series of murders.
- “The Hidden Light of Objects” by Mai Al-Nakib: This collection of short stories explores various themes including family, love, and identity in Kuwait and neighbouring Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates.
- “The Bamboo Stalk” by Saud Alsanousi: This award-winning novel tells the story of half-Filipino, half-Kuwaiti Isa, who faces cultural challenges and identity crises growing up in Kuwait and later moves to the United Arab Emirates.
- “The Sand Fish: A Novel from Dubai” by Maha Gargash: Set during the mid-20th century in Dubai, this novel portrays the tension between tradition and change through the experiences of a young Emirati woman navigating societal expectations.
- “Temporary People” by Deepak Unnikrishnan: This book is a collection of stories about the lives of migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates, delving into their struggles, dreams, and experiences in the Gulf region.
- “The Circle of Happiness” by Warda Al-Jawahiry: Based in Dubai, this novel explores the lives of five Western expatriates, each searching for happiness in a city of opulence and contrasts.
- “The Architects’ Club” by Youssef Rakha: This novel presents multiple narratives set in Cairo, but also features sections that take place in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Gulf cities, exploring themes of disillusionment and searching for meaning.
WANDERLIST: Ten novels set in the UAE
0
Share.
