The Shelf
Every author here is a member of AlRaff, part of a growing community of authors living and working across the UAE. Browse to discover their books, what they offer, whether that's storytelling, workshops, talks or something else, and the age groups and languages they write for.
We don't publish members' direct contact details, but you'll find links to their website and social media on each profile. If you'd like a proper introduction, for a visit, a partnership, or anything else, get in touch with us at hello@alraff.com and we'll connect you directly.
Our Founders
Ebtisam Al-Beiti is an Emirati children's author and Senior Specialist in Quality Improvement at KHDA, championing early literacy through storytelling and school visits.
Giselle Onanian is the author of Alfie & Oak, drawing on a lifetime as a "grown up expat" in Dubai to help children and families navigate life far from home.
A passionate storyteller and advocate for early literacy, Kathy’s books are rich in imagination, curiosity, and the small wonders of the world children inhibit.
Our Founding Members
Dr. Yasmin El-Rouby is the author of the Misty Mole Children's Books. She has combined medical expertise with public health advocacy, education, and storytelling to raise awareness of early vision intervention and myopia management while improving access to quality eye care in underserved communities.
I’m JC Menon, a UAE-based children’s author and published writer, with training in Story Writing from the London School of Journalism. I’m passionate about creating meaningful and engaging stories for young readers.
An early years educator and leader from the UK and living in Dubai for the past twenty years. Having recently submitted my manuscript for publishing I am excited about my journey as a new author. Reading for pleasure and sharing stories with children is one of my passions. Spreading a love for reading amongst the early years is my goal.
Novel and short story writer.
Maheen Zeeshan is a primary teacher and children’s author who creates engaging stories that inspire curiosity, kindness, imagination, and a lifelong love of reading in young learners.
Rhuar is a poet and writer from London, currently living and working in Abu Dhabi. He hopes he will never grow up. His poems and fiction have appeared in a number of magazines and collections, including in Litro, the Interpreter's House, Crannog, Open Pen and the Londonist. His stories have also been performed in London, Leicester and New York.
Aprajita Ramsagar Singh is a writer, social impact leader and coach whose work spans international development, storytelling and strategic partnerships. Based in Dubai, her stories draw on nature, community and cultural memory, and are written for the children we are raising and the children we once were.
Sara Taher is a lively children’s author and storyteller who brings plenty of laughs, energy and interaction to stories that help children explore mindfulness, self-awareness and their wonderfully busy minds.
I am a trilingual (English, Arabic, Italian) storyteller, a certified Parenting and Kids Life Coach and a creative arts facilitator.
I’m an early childhood education specialist and passionate storyteller who believes stories come alive when children are invited to participate, imagine, and explore. I’m currently in the process of publishing my first book, bringing my passion for interactive storytelling to young readers.
Katya Carrington is an author and illustrator based in Abu Dhabi.
Giuliana Giardina is a first-time children’s book author whose greatest inspiration has been learning to see the world through her children's eyes. In her books, she hopes to capture that sense of wonder and remind young readers and their parents that the world can feel enchanting when we take the time to see it truly.
Saira Arian, winner of Editor's Choice (Edinburgh Short Story Award), writes minimalist short fiction rooted in her Pakistani heritage. She's also completed a children's series full of folklore, humour and heart.
I am Charlotte Emily Jones ... a primary school teacher, children's author and business owner calling Dubai home for the past 9 years.
Soukaina is the founder of NEYA (نية), an author and early childhood advocate creating stories and practical tools that help children build social-emotional skills, resilience and confidence to thrive across home, school and community.
Welcome to ‘The Starling Adventures’ series, which follows the Starling family as they navigate new friendships, exciting journeys, and unforgettable life experiences.
Michele is an archaeologist and a children’s book author. Her son, Suhail, who is autistic, inspired her books. The themes of her books focus on kindness and inclusion.
Morgane Thuret is a children's author, entrepreneur, and intercultural specialist renowned for her captivating educational series, The Babel Corner (Age 6-12). With a wealth of international experience across six countries, she crafts immersive storytelling that bridges cultures, languages, and history.
A whimsical, fun way to learn more about your inner self in Arabic! Welcome to the Life-kit series with Maha.
Stephanie Robert has a degree in psychology from the University of Ottawa, Canada. She has a passion for learning about and understanding the effect of positive psychology on the child’s mind.
With over 12 years of experience working for publishing companies in the UK, Sabrina Shah now focuses writing her own children's books. From picture books to spooky middle grade novels and young adult thrillers.
Early Years Consultant, CPD Trainer and children’s author helping parents and educators transform story time into language-rich learning that inspires confident, curious readers and a lifelong love of books.
Passionate about the Arabic language and focused on instilling love and connection to the Arab identity, heritage and culture.
Policy consultant, trainer, educator, lifelong learner and former eclectic homeschooler. Passionate about inspiring a new generation of readers, F. G. Qiyara blends technology, investigation and fast-paced storytelling to engage today's screen- aware generation whilst rekindling the joy of reading.
Ayesha N. Rahmaan is an award-winning American author, educator, and founder of Alif2Yaa Publishing. Through her engaging children's books, educational toys, and learning resources, she inspires young hearts, nurtures strong character, and helps children develop a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Award-winning children’s author and founder of The Wadi Tribe, Saniya creates adventurous, culturally rich stories filled with unforgettable characters, imagination and heart.
A storyteller at heart, Lina traded MRI scans for storyboards - her books turn hard truths into gentle, honest conversations that resonate with children and adults alike.
Author of Leaving Sherwood House and Leaving the Nest. Rania is a certified Mindful Parent Educator, life coach and mother of five, with over two decades supporting families internationally.
Evisa Simpson is a Dubai-based children’s author who writes magical stories that inspire kindness, creativity and confidence, inviting children to imagine, join in and have fun.
