The timeless beauty of poetry took centre stage in Edinburgh last week as Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and the Emirates Literature Foundation (ELF) brought together leading voices from the United Arab Emirates and Scotland for Footprints on the Sand of Time, a unique celebration of the poetic heritage shared by both nations.
The event is part of the Exporting Local Literary Talent project by Dubai Culture and ELF, designed to empower Emirati creatives and UAE-based talent by presenting their work on prestigious international forums. Falling under the Dubai Cultural Grant programme, it creates pathways for poets, authors, and artists to engage with audiences abroad, build networks, and represent the UAE’s flourishing literary scene. The initiative supports Dubai’s vision of positioning the emirate — and the nation — as a hub for creativity and cultural diplomacy, while equipping participants with the skills and resources to succeed globally.
Held during Edinburgh’s renowned month-long festival season – a global gathering for music, drama, literature, and performance – the programme featured two exclusive events highlighting the enduring poetic traditions of both countries. The afternoon session at the Poetry Library of Scotland welcomed an audience of senior cultural figures, including Dr Harriet MacMillan, Director, Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust; Claire De Braekeleer, incoming Director, British Council Scotland; and Norah Campbell, Head of Arts, British Council Scotland.
The UAE’s literary heritage was represented by celebrated poets Dr Afra Atiq, Ali Al Shaali, and Shamma Al Bastaki, whose works were performed alongside prominent Scottish figures, including Peter Mackay, Makar (Poet Laureate) of Scotland; Michael Pedersen, Edinburgh Makar; and Janette Ayachi, the Scottish-Algerian poet.
Poems were shared in English, Scottish Gaelic, Scots, and Arabic, reflecting the deep oral traditions, musical rhythms, and intimate connections to land and language cherished in both cultures.
In the evening, an exclusive private reading was hosted at Gleneagles Townhouse, offering select guests an intimate experience of this rich poetic exchange.
