Emirati writer Shamma Al Bastaki unveils new book at Taobuk Festival in Sicily

Emirati poet and writer Shamma Al Bastaki took part in the Taobuk Festival in Taormina, Sicily, presenting her distinctive multilingual, cross-genre poetry to international audiences and contributing to a growing cultural dialogue between the UAE and Europe.

Shamma’s interdisciplinary practice moves between poetry and visual art. Drawing inspiration from the Dubai Creek, her latest publication weaves together poetry, oral histories, and photo collages to preserve everyday memories passed down through generations. Al Bastaki’s participation as an author at Taobuk marked the launch of a new partnership between the Sicilian festival and the Emirates Literature Foundation, establishing the first collaborative initiative between the two organisations under the umbrella of the Global Association of Literary Festivals.

During the festival, Shamma opened an exhibition by renowned artist Anish Kapoor with a poetry reading. Following her remarks, Kapoor referenced a line from her work in his own remarks, highlighting its resonance with his artistic process. Shamma later presented the artist with a copy of her book. She also participated in a panel discussion at the historic San Domenico Palace hotel in Taormina, where she spoke about her latest publication House to House, followed by a book signing.

Copies of Shamma Al Bastaki's new book, House to House.

Shamma Faisal Al Bastaki is an award-winning poet and writer from Dubai. A graduate of Harvard University, she is also an alumna of the Salama Bint Hamdan Emerging Artists Fellowship and holds a PgD in Diplomacy. Her work has been featured in platforms globally, including the Venice Biennale, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Natural History Museum London, the Seoul International Book Fair, and other cultural forums.

Shamma’s participation was supported through Dubai Culture & Arts Authority’s (Dubai Culture) Exporting Local Literary Talent programme, delivered in partnership with the Emirates Literature Foundation. Since its launch in June 2024, the initiative has enabled more than 30 Emirati and UAE-based authors, poets and literary professionals to participate in over 20 international literary events, helping showcase local creative talent on the global stage while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a hub for the creative economy.

Shamma Al Bastaki’s flight to Sicily was made possible thanks to Flydubai, which operates direct flights from Dubai to Sicily, fostering cultural and people-to-people ties between the UAE and one of the most celebrated destinations. Known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene and stunning Mediterranean coastline, Sicily provided a fitting backdrop for international literary exchange.