MBRF Launches Workshop in Tunisia to Nurture Arab Children's Literature Talent
Part of the Dubai International Programme for Writing (DIPW), the initiative brings together 10 aspiring writers for a year-long series of in-person sessions focused on storytelling and illustration for children's books. Running until July 2025, the workshop is led by Dr. Wafa Thabet Mezghani, a professor and creative writing coach at the Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Sfax.
The programme aims to equip participants with both creative and technical skills, helping them develop stories that resonate with today's young readers while preserving the richness of Arab culture. 'This reflects our vision to empower young Arab authors and encourage innovation in specialised literary fields,'
said Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF. 'It's an investment in building a stronger Arab knowledge society.'
The sessions cover key aspects of children's literature, from narrative development to modern storytelling tools. By combining traditional themes with contemporary techniques, the initiative seeks to produce content that connects with new generations while maintaining cultural authenticity.
DIPW has become a cornerstone of MBRF's mission to advance Arabic literature, providing platforms for young writers to grow, publish, and share their voices across the region and beyond.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
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Time Out Abu Dhabi
2 hours ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Your guide to brunches in Abu Dhabi: Where to go and what to eat 2025
There's nothing we like more than spending our weekends gorging on never-ending food and drinks in the company of friends at some of the city's finest establishments, otherwise known as an Abu Dhabi brunch. That's why we've searched high and low to bring you our round-up of the ultimate feasts to suit all taste buds and budgets. We're nice like that. So, without further ado, dive into the wild world of Abu Dhabi brunch… The Abu Dhabi brunch bucket list 2025 Jump to: Family brunches White at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort Credit: White at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort Can you think of anything better than enjoying a weekend brunch with stunning views of Saadiyat's pristine white sandy beaches? Us neither. The White Brunch by Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort makes for a quintessential Abu Dhabi brunch experience complete with plenty of food to fill your boots, from Arabic and Asian food to live international cooking stations and island-themed delicacies. A particular highlight is the spectacular seafood station which is full to the brim with king crab, lobster, shucked oysters, salmon sashimi and a selection of deeply citrusy ceviche. Yum. All that alongside great drinks, live entertainment and family-friendly packages and it has all the makings of a perfect Saturday afternoon. Dhs350 including soft drinks, Dhs475 including house beverages, Dhs600 including premium bubbly or grapes, 50 per cent off for kids aged 6-11 years old, kids under 6 dine for free. Sat 1-4pm. Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort, (02 811 4342). Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant Credit: Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant Fun is at the top of the menu at the Acapulco table brunch at Mexican restaurant Amerigos, which takes place every Saturday at Park Inn by Radisson, Yas Island. Round up the family for a true feast of traditional dishes including shredded beef tostadas, tuna ceviche, quesadillas, grills and a bunch of tasty desserts, all served up alongside some excellent live music. There's even a piñata to keep both little and big kids who like hitting stuff with a stick entertained. That's all of us, right? Dhs169 (soft drinks), Dhs269 (house beverages).. Sat 12.30-pm3.30 pm. Park Inn by Radisson, Yas Island, (02 656 2000). Latest Recipe This popular Abu Dhabi brunch is a great option for families, groups of friends and couples alike, with a belly-busting buffet comprising all the traditional stations including Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern and more. We highly recommend filling up on freshly cooked plates from live cooking stations, but be sure to save room for pastries for dessert. Dhs139 including soft drinks, Dhs219 including house beverages. Sat 1-4pm. Le Méridien Abu Dhabi, Al Zahiyah, (056 688 5361). The Grand Brunch at Fairmont Bab al Bahr Credit: Fairmont Bab al Bahr The Grand Brunch is a perfect weekend indulgence – tuck into into a delicious al fresco brunch, complemented by the breathtaking views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Set off on a culinary journey through the best of Asian, Indian, Mediterranean, Japanese, Italian, and British cuisines. It features over 145 dishes and more than 18 live stations. And a pastry station with 20 varieties of artisan desserts and cakes, all completed with perfect mixed drinks prepared by mixologists. To finish the experience, you can hop over to the Bridges Bar to enjoy a special happy hour from 4pm onwards. Dhs345 (soft drinks), Dhs495 (house drinks). Sat 1-4pm. Fairmont Bab al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta, (02 654 3333). Sidekicks Credit: Sidekicks A great option for any DC-obsessed sprogs (the fun starts with a Batmobile parked outside on arrival), The WB's family-friendly brunch boasts a colourful feast for both adults, with a menu that includes spaghetti meatballs, mini burgers and sweet potato fries, along with separate stations for doughnuts, cotton candy and popcorn. It's not the food that's the star of the show here though – that would be the army of stars from the animated annals of the Warner Bros. back catalogue that are also in attendance, including the likes of Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Robin. 10/10 for experience. Dhs185 including soft drinks, Dhs290 including house beverages, Dhs130 per child for the Birthday Brunch Package, kids under 6 dine for free. Sat 1-4pm. The WB, Yas Bay, Yas Island, (02 815 0000). Viaggio in Italia Brunch at Café Milano Credit: Café Milano Café Milano's foodfest takes diners on a tour of Italy's very best culinary regions including Sicilia, Campania, Lazio, Toscana, Emilia-Romagna and Piemonte. Introducing lesser-known signature dishes inspired by distinct flavours and culinary traditions, unlike traditional buffets, dishes are served tableside, reminiscent of the Italian passion for food, social interaction and hospitality, all with stunning views of the iconic Abu Dhabi skyline. Drink pairings are taken just as seriously as the food here, so you're in for a real treat. Dhs240 including soft drinks, Dhs340 including house beverages and prosecco. Sat. Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi – Al Maryah Island (02 333 2444). Party brunches B.I.G Brunch at Garage Credit: Garage Epic is the only word we can think of to describe the award-winning B.I.G Brunch at the W Abu Dhabi. Promising stylish décor, party vibes and plenty to fill even the biggest appetite – not to mention a stunning outdoor terrace that overlooks the racetrack – expect five culinary hubs including the Steam Table serving Dandan chicken noodles, wok-fried shrimp and chicken wonton soup, Meat Vault for a selection of meats including roast prime rib, and Nikkei Seafood Bar with Fin De Clair oysters, classico ceviche and sea bass. There's also 11 different beverage taps and endless fun complete with DJs pumping out all your favourite tunes, roller-skaters zooming past and a saxophonist to keep you dancing all day long. Be sure to wear your dancing shoes for this one. Dhs390 including soft drinks, Dhs475 including house beverages, Dhs590 including bubbly. Sat 1-4pm. W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, (02 656 0000). Broadway Brunch at Broadway Prepare for an immersive experience at the Broadway Brunch – a fusion of gastronomy, live music, and an electric atmosphere. Influenced by French and British flavours, the menu features everything from lobster omelette with glazed Hollandaise and escargot with garlic butter to steak frites, roasted sea bream and spinach and ricotta agnolotti, all designed to be washed down with an extensive selection of craft hops and cocktails. Not forgetting the live entertainment and performances that set the stage for an unforgettable afternoon, this is an all-rounder. Dhs295 including soft drinks, Dhs365 including house beverages, Dhs495 including bubbly. Sat 12.30-3.30pm. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental West Corniche Road, (02 690 7999). Hakkasan Night Brunch on the Terrace Credit: Hakkasan Unlike your average Abu Dhabi brunch, Hakkasan's offering takes place in the evening and it's only held on the first Friday of every month. Meaning reservations are like gold dust. If you're lucky enough to bag one (we recommend booking well in advance) you'll be treated to a sharing menu comprising the likes of the hotspot's popular Peking duck, soups, dim sum and salads. Bigger dishes are on the menu as well, including jasmine tea smoked Wagyu beef ribs and almond soft shell crab. The DJ really amps up the volume as the evening goes on, so don't be surprised if you find yourself calling an Uber only in the early hours o the following morning. Dhs538 including house beverages, Dhs728 including house beverages and premium bubbly. First Friday of each month 8pm-11pm. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, (02 690 7739). Ibiza Bliss Brunch at Café Del Mar Credit: Café Del Mar If you're currently craving a long lunch at a chic Ibizan beach club then thankfully you don't have to wait until your next Mediterranean break – Abu Dhabi's own Café Del Mar promises plenty of foam-fuelled fun, live beats, refreshing drinks, unlimited plates from the barbecue, pool access, towels and a lounger, all for just Dhs349 on Fridays and Dhs399 on Sundays. While you can indulge in the likes of burgers, hot dogs, jumbo prawns, chicken fillets, steaks, veggie skewers, salad, fries and mash potatoes, the food is secondary to the party – this is this is Cafe Del Mar, after all, and you'll be transported directly to the White Isle as the DJ spins chilled out beats as the sun sets on the horizon. Lovely jubbly. Dhs349 including house beverages. Fri1-4pm. Dhs399 including house beverages. Sun 1-4pm. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (050 402 2283). JamRock at Ting Irie For a true taste of the Caribbean, Jamaican restaurant Ting Irie is where it's at. Partygoers can revel in four hours of bacchanal beats, flamboyant dancers and bottomless punch to kick start the weekend, while on the food front you'll dig into Jamaican patties, chickpea curry, oxtail and beans and, of course, jerk chicken. Save room for desserts like the grater cake – you won't regret it. Dhs199 drinks only, Dhs244 including house beverages, Dhs444 including premium beverages. Sat 2pm-6pm. Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, (02 886 7786). McCafferty's Irish Pub Credit: McCafferty's There's no doubt the Irish know how to party, and you'll definitely be in for great craic down at McCafferty's Irish Pub's buzzy Friday brunch. Line your stomach with the likes of classic pub grub like chicken wings, battered sausage and bangers and mash alongside carvery items like pepper crusted beef before dancing it all off to the tunes of its in-house live band. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for this one as we predict you'll be on your feet well into the evening. Dhs199 including house beverages. Sat 5pm-8pm. Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, (058 598 3623). Sunday brunches La Vie en Rosé Brunch at LPM Restaurant & Bar Abu Dhabi Credit: LPM Restaurant & Bar Abu Dhabi If you're looking to end your weekend on a high, make a beeline for Abu Dhabi's favourite French restaurant LPM. Sure to make you say ooh la la, kick things off with a bread and viennoiserie basket before egg dishes such as baked eggs with tomato and basil, or poached eggs with crab on toast, make their way to the table. For mains, we're particularly fond of the roasted Wagyu beef or pan-fried sea bream, and we're 100 per cent certain you will be too. Dhs390 including soft drinks, Dhs465 including house beverages, Dhs640 including French bubbly. Sun 12-4.30pm. The Galleria – Al Maryah Island, (02 692 9600). Dino's Bistro Italiano Credit: Dino's Bistro Italiano For a more casual take on Sunday brunch, round up the family and head to Dino's for a true Italian feast, all served a la carte. While kids will love the likes of a cheesy pepperoni pizza and hand-rolled pasta, there's also a selection of more sophisticated mains like roasted sea bream and a veal scaloppini to tickle all taste buds. Desserts come served family-style, which is a fancy way of saying free-for-all, just how we like it. Dhs220 including soft drinks, Dhs280 including bubbly. Sun 12-4pm. Pearl Rotana, Al Rawdah, (02 307 5551). Eat, Paradiso and Love brunch at Paradiso Credit: Paradiso For a quintessential Italian dining experience in the sun, look no further than Paradiso. Taking place outside on the expansive terrace of the vibrant waterfront dining destination, in addition to a mouthwatering menu of all your Mediterranean favourites (think chicory salad, beef carpaccio, burrata, crab croquettes, ribeye steak, grilled gambas and roasted cockerel), live music will take you on a trip to Tuscany where the inspiration for this playful brunch was derived. Dhs300 including soft drinks, Dhs450 including house beverages and Dhs450 including bubbles. Sun 1pm-4pm. Yas Bay Waterfront, (050 437 2869). Yum Cha brunch at Dai Pai Pong Credit: Dai Pai Pong We're huge advocates of a weekend Chinese, so don't be surprised if you spot us indulging in Dai Pai Pong's legendary brunch on a Sunday. All about the dim sum with everything from steamed shrimp and crispy vegetable rice rolls to beef wontons, salads, soups, roasted duck and barbecued meats, don't be surprised if someone has to roll you out of there – it's been known to happen to us a time or two. Dhs298 including soft drinks, Dhs398 including house beverages, Dhs528 including bubbly. Sun noon-4pm. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, (02 813 5588). Outdoor brunches Riviera Brunch at Mika Credit: Mika For brunch with unmatched views of Yas Marina, Mika brings a taste of the Mediterranean to our shores with its trendy Riviera Brunch. Embracing a Middle Eastern perspective on European cuisine, Chef-Patron Mario Loi and team whip up a delectable selection of small plates and sharing platters that come paired with handcrafted seasonal cocktails and a boutique grape offering, with a menu that evolves seasonally to ensure all ingredients are as fresh as possible. Trust us, you can tell. Dhs299 including soft drinks, Dhs449 including house beverages, Dhs595 including bubbly. Sat 1.30-4.30pm. Yas Marina, Yas Island, (056 433 1422). Social Saturday Brunch at Alba Terrace Credit: Alba Terrace Make the most of this lovely terrace season with an alfresco brunch at the swanky Abu Dhabi EDITION. Another brunch destined to help us forget our longings for a quick trip to St Tropez, chefs dish up a saucy selection of Mediterranean specialities direct to the table. This includes a mix of Alba Terrace classics, new seasonal creations and items from the poolside wood-fired oven including braised lamb shank, prawn risotto and a marvellous truffle pulled beef pizza (oh my). Elsewhere expert mixologists craft carefully-curated cocktails to match the mood of he place, while Del Mare-styled DJs spin some tunes. Don't mind if we do. Dhs265 food only, Dhs395 including house beverages. Sat 1-4.30pm. The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen, (02 208 0000). Brunches to impress Baikingu Brunch at Zuma Credit: Zuma Abu Dhabi Looking to treat the in-laws? Brunch at Zuma should do just that. The perfect excuse to dig into a jaw-dropping range of dishes from the Japanese restaurant's tantalising tasting menu, take inspiration from the izakaya style of informal eating and indulge in an array of starters including the renowned shrimp tempura with yuzu chilli mayo, crispy fried squid and plenty of sashimi, nigiri, and maki. Next up comes the live robata cooking featuring the likes of beef yakiniku with tahoon mayo, while for mains you can enjoy grilled Chilean sea bass with green chilli and ginger dressing, spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chilli or sweet soy, roasted lobster with shiso ponzu butter. Finish on a sweet note with sorbets, ice creams, chocolates and exotic fruits. Prices start from Dhs545. Sat 12:30pm-4pm. The Galleria Al Maryah Island, (02 401 5900). Butcher & Still Credit: Butcher & Still Award-winning steakhouse Butcher & Still is must-visit for those who prefer the finer things in life, the gorgeous venue, which was inspired by a 1920s Chicago steakhouse, is a part buffet set-up with live cooking stations, and part à la carte with chef Marshall's specials delivered straight to your table. There's also live music throughout the afternoon for those who fancy dancing off the calories. Dhs425 including soft drinks, Dhs550 including house beverages. Sat 1pm-4pm. Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, (02 333 2444). The Director's Club brunch at The WB Credit: The Director's Club A far cry from the hotel's family-friendly Sidekicks brunch, this sophisticated meatery throws a much fancier affair complete with premium cuts, the finest beverages and live entertainment to boot. Upon arrival you'll be greeted with a tower of bubbly and, once seated, sit back and relax as a selection of sharing-style appetisers, including The Director's Club signature beef tartare, burrata, truffle, and old bay prawn po' boys and oysters Rockefeller, are all served directly to the table. Exactly how the other half live. Dhs275 including soft drinks, Dhs399 including premium drinks, Dhs599 including bubbly. Sat 1pm-4pm. The WB, Yas Bay, Yas Island, (02 815 0000). You might also like… Abu Dhabi ladies' nights: 40 deals and offers you need to know about Enjoy a night out for less at these brilliant bars and restaurants Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted Old Abu Dhabi: 15 best spots to uncover the history of the capital Peel back the layers of time
Broadcast Pro
14 hours ago
- Broadcast Pro
Star-studded premiere of ‘Darwish' lights up Vox Cinemas Egypt
The film is a co-production between One to One, Film Clinic, Vox Studios and Film Square. The Egyptian feature film Darwish premiered in Egypt with a red-carpet event at Vox Cinemas, Mall of Egypt, immersing guests in the movie's nostalgic world. The celebration brought together the film's stars – Amr Youssef, Dina El Sherbiny, Tara Emad, Khaled Kamal, Mostafa Gharib, Ahmed Abdel Wahab and Mohamed Shahin – alongside the production teams, media figures, influencers and celebrities including Tarek El Erian, Saba Mubarak, Sedky Sakhr, Hana Shiha, Tamer Habib and Yasmina El Abd. Directed by Walid El-Halfawy and written by Wissam Sabry, Darwish tells the story of a charismatic con artist whose carefully crafted life unravels when a job goes wrong. Caught between stolen jewels, shady deals, and a tangled love triangle, Darwish finds danger closing in from every direction as two women pull him in opposite ways. Produced by Vox Studios, One 2 One, Film Clinic and Film Square, Darwish will open in cinemas across Egypt on August 13, followed by a wider release across the Arab region on August 28.
Broadcast Pro
15 hours ago
- Broadcast Pro
Power League Gaming, TikTok and Visit Saudi team up for MENA esports broadcast
The inaugural event will coincide with the second edition of the Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia this summer, making it the first-ever esports tournament produced in collaboration with TikTok LIVE, the platform's dedicated livestreaming feature. Fans across the region will be able to watch the high-stakes action in real time as 16 of MENA's top teams, including RA'AD, Falcons, Al Qadsiah, Twisted Minds and battle for a share of the $10,000 prize pool. Matches will take place on August 11 and 13, streaming exclusively on TikTok LIVE from PLG's state-of-the-art studios in Dubai Production City. Mathew Pickering, CEO of Power League Gaming, said: 'We're proud to partner with TikTok LIVE and Visit Saudi to deliver high-quality, mobile-first esports content that speaks directly to the next generation of MENA gamers. Our purpose-built, 10,000sq ft studio in Dubai – featuring 360-degree gaming content production capabilities, advanced broadcasting hardware and robust IT Infrastructure – gives us the agility and scale to deliver fast, immersive, and culturally relevant esports experiences. Together, we're raising the bar for how live gaming content is produced and experienced in the region.' Yahya Munir, TikTok LIVE Trust & Experience Manager for MENA, added: 'At TikTok, we're committed to shaping the future of digital entertainment by creating meaningful opportunities for communities to connect through culture, creativity, and shared passion points. Through TikTok LIVE, we're proud to collaborate with Power League Gaming to spotlight the region's thriving gaming and esports scene. We also thank Visit Saudi for their partnership in bringing this experience to life. Together, we're delivering immersive, mobile-first experiences that empower local talent and bring fans closer to the moments that matter most.' PUBG Mobile remains one of the most popular mobile games in the region, with an Ipsos-PLG study showing 52% awareness and 41% usage in Saudi Arabia, and 59% awareness with 51% usage in the UAE. The game enjoys strong engagement among female gamers, young adults aged 20 to 29 in KSA, and Gen Z players in both countries. Under the agreement, PLG will oversee every aspect of the tournament, from esports management and live commentary to innovative mobile-first formats, leveraging TikTok LIVE to expand reach and fan engagement. With TikTok gaining ground as a hub for gaming and esports content—used by 51% of Saudi gamers and 44% in the UAE—the partnership represents a significant advance in regional esports broadcasting and brand connection with young Arab audiences. The PUBG Mobile Pro Invitational will stream live on TikTok from 7 PM to 11 PM KSA (8 PM to 12 AM UAE) on both August 11 and 13.
