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Exploring local arts, coffee, music and more, A Journey Through the Five Senses at Kutubna Cultural Center kicks off this week.

It may have landed quietly on the city’s culture scene, but in less than a year, Kutubna Cultural Center has become a vital community space for artists, writers, and avid readers alike. Now, the homegrown independent bookstore is inviting both expats and locals to connect further with the UAE’s heritage through A Journey Through the Five Senses, an immersive cultural programme that will explore Emirati arts, coffee, music, and fragrance from 21 November to 19 December. Through themed sessions focusing on taste, sound, sight, smell, and touch, participants can engage in Emirati culture through vivid narratives, live demonstrations, and visual storytelling. Here are all five at a glance.

Touch: The Timeless Craft of Theatre with Naji Al Hai, Theatre Expert and Playwright

21 November

Award-winning Emirati playwright and theatre director Naji Al Hai will lead an exclusive session on the rich tradition of Emirati theatre. With a legacy of contributions to international festivals, he will guide participants through the emotional depth of Emirati folklore, revealing untold stories and connecting audiences to the country’s cultural heritage.

Sound: The Voices of UAE with Al Anood Bukhammas, Graphic Design Instructor

28 November

Al Anood Bukhammas, a graphic design instructor who hails from the UAE, merges her design expertise with a deep understanding of Emirati music to bring UAE’s soundscapes to life. Through her unique approach, she will guide participants on a journey through the rhythms and stories of Emirati heritage, offering a fresh and visually immersive perspective on local musical traditions.

Taste: The Art of Hospitality with Medina Ilyas, Arabic Coffee Expert

5 December

This original session, led by Medina Ilyas, will immerse participants in the heritage and cultural significance of Arabic coffee. Through fascinating history, engaging storytelling, and expert insights, Ilyas reveals the traditions, techniques, and flavours that make this beverage a cherished emblem of Arab hospitality and community.

Sight: Capturing the Beauty of UAE with Hussain AlMoosawi, Emirati Designer, Photographer, and Storyteller

12 December

Hussain AlMoosawi, Emirati storyteller and photographer, presents his journey through the UAE’s architectural landscape, offering an insightful perspective shaped by his profound connection to the region. Through this visual exploration, he reflects on how his travels influence his understanding of urban identities, city navigation, and the evolving cultural narratives within his work.

Smell: The Art of Fragrance with Mike Metzger, Bukhoor Expert

19 December

Led by Mike Metzger, an experienced bukhoor expert, this exclusive session immerses participants in the captivating world of Emirati fragrance — a cherished tradition in Emirati homes. Attendees will engage in a hands-on mixing experience, discovering the rich cultural heritage and depth behind these iconic scents.

“The Five Senses programme is not just an event, but a step toward building a community that will carry forward a deeper understanding of Emirati values and heritage,” explains founder and director Shatha Almutawa. “Kutubna aspires to lead the way in cultural exchange in Dubai, setting a new standard for engaging and impactful cultural programming. The programme is designed to encourage shared experiences that open doors for intercultural conversations and build bridges in ways that typical presentations or static exhibitions cannot. We have tailored these activities for Dubai’s vibrant and diverse communities. We aim to transform perspectives and bridge cultural gaps with powerful and memorable experiences that connect deeply with participants.”

DSCVR: A Journey Through the Five Senses. Kutubna Cultural Center, Madina Avenues Shop 17A, Nadd Al Hamar, Dubai. @kutubnadubai