The 2012 Programme is now live! Click here to view it.

The Main Programme lies at the heart of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature - a rich and diverse array of panel discussions, indepth interviews, poetry readings, debates, workshops & masterclasses featuring authors from all over the world. It's a chance to meet your favourites authors - or to discover someone new. Both the number of events and their ambition has grown exponentially since the first Festival just four years ago (2009) and in 2012 we have more than 150 events - kicking off with a special Opening Night at Al Mamzar Theatre (Tuesday 8 March) and then a wonderful Heritage Evening (Wednesday 9 March) at the InterContinental Hotel, but in a special new venue. Thursday to Saturday sees the huge core of  events - with many new elements including a Literary Tea and a topical Round Table Discussion - plus all your favourites.

In response to feedback, we've greatly expanded the number of events for Young Adults/children, too.

So, whatever your age, whatever your interests, we're sure you'll find something to enjoy over the five days of the Festival - and look foreward to welcoming you.

As ever with large events like this, there will be changes and late additions, so check back often. You can also subscribe to our email newsletter, subscribe to our blog or follow us on Twitter and Facebook. If you like what you see you can even become a Festival Friend and get discounts on tickets along with other benefits.