Overview

Our goal is to introduce the rich cultural, literary and historical heritage of the Arab world to the public through a variety of events including exhibitions, live entertainment, and food tasting.

In a Nutshell

Event: Edinburgh Arab Festival
Type of Event: Outreach, cultural and awareness raising event.
Events: Exhibitions, galleries, language taster workshops, seminars, lectures, panel discussions, film screenings, food tasting, etc…
Organised by: Islamic & Middle Eastern Department, University of Edinburgh
Venue: 50 George Square, School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures, University of Edinburgh, University of Edinburgh, EH8 9LH.
Audience: Edinburgh Arts Festival visitors, general public, students/teachers of Arabic.

Marhaba! Welcome!

We invite you to experience the beauty, diversity and richness of the Arab world, right here in Edinburgh! This vibrant two-day cultural festival provides visitors with a unique opportunity to gain an insight into Arab culture through a wide array of open and scheduled events including music, poetry, fashion, film screenings, photography, calligraphy, exhibitions, language taster classes, authentic traditional cuisines and more. Here is your chance to experience the famed Arab hospitality! With something for everyone, this is truly an event not to be missed!

Overview

As part of the internationally renowned Edinburgh International Arts Festival, known as the Fringe Festival, the Islamic & Middle Eastern Studies Department at the University of Edinburgh has launched the first ever Edinburgh Arab Festival in Scotland back in August 2015.

The event usually takes place at a University venue in the heart of the city of Edinburgh, during the most popular time of the Fringe festival.

During the vibrant two-day event, our goal is to introduce the rich cultural, literary and historical heritage of the Arab world to the public. The programme usually includes a variety of events including a keynote speech by a high-profile speaker, exhibition and art galleries, live entertainment, food tasting and multiple live workshops in language, poetry, storytelling and art.