Inside Kutubna: Dubai’s indie bookshop and creative haven
At this soulful space, books, art, and community come together in perfect harmony
What’s the first book you ever fell in love with?
Where’s Spot? - read to me in Arabic by my parents, it planted the first seed of wonder that led me to a life surrounded by books.
Your favourite spot inside Kutubna?
Café Kutubna: intimate, warm, with a mural of my late grandfather by Cholo Juan on the wall.
An Emirati or Kuwaiti author everyone should read.
Mai Al-Nakib (Kuwait) and Maha Gargash (UAE).
Book or art — what’s your current obsession?
Art that reflects philosophy, history, and forgotten or less known stories.
Describe Kutubna in one word.
“Belonging” because culture isn’t just observed here, it’s shared.
What’s the most unexpected thing about running a cultural centre?
That behind every poetic moment, there’s a hundred invisible decisions and yet, it’s always worth it.
Who would you dream of hosting at Kutubna for a talk?
Butheina Al-Issa, a voice that challenges and inspires.
A book you think is seriously underrated?
A Small Death by Mohammed Hasan Alwan: a quiet, brilliant novel that depicts the life of the historical figure of Ibn Al-Arabi.
What’s your go-to snack while reading?
Scrumptious chocolate-chip cookies from Cafe Kutubna.
If your daughter could describe Kutubna in a word, what would it be?
Magic.
One Gulf-based writer whose work blew your mind recently.
Shahd Alshammari, she is brave and strong and an excellent role model and educator.
What’s your secret to staying calm during chaos?
The people beside me give me strength and hope to face every storm.
Most beautiful thing someone’s said about Kutubna.
“It feels like home, even if it’s your first time.”
Bookshelves or blank walls?
Bookshelves, always.
The one rule you live by in work and life.
Do it with heart, or don’t do it at all.
If Kutubna were a painting, what would it look like?
The Cholo Juan writing mural of my niece at the entrance of Kutubna reflects the spirit of the centre. Kutubna is all about the people who make our community wonderful.
Coffee, tea… or something stronger during deadlines?
Espresso. If you haven’t tried the one at Kutubna, you’re missing out.
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