The music scene in the United Arab Emirates is growing fast. Behind every hit song is a powerful story, often written by songwriters who spend hours crafting the right words. These lyricists bring emotion, rhythm, and soul to the melodies we hear across radio stations, streaming platforms, and social media.
This feature takes a closer look at the lives and stories of some of the UAE’s most respected and rising songwriters. We uncover what inspires them, the challenges they face, and what it really means to write music in a country where creativity is blooming.
Songwriting in the UAE has come a long way. Once heavily influenced by imported music, the country now boasts homegrown talent writing lyrics in Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu, and other regional languages. Thanks to government support for the arts, music festivals, talent shows, and recording studios, lyricists now have a platform like never before.
But while singers often get the spotlight, the people behind the words stay in the background. That’s beginning to change as audiences become more interested in the stories behind the songs.
One of the standout voices in the local songwriting scene is Fatima Al Mazrouei, an Emirati poet turned lyricist. Fatima has written lyrics for several viral pop tracks blending Arabic traditions with modern beats.
“My lyrics are personal,” she says. “They come from love, heartbreak, and culture. I want people to feel the truth behind every word.”
Another top name is Jay Singh, an Indian-born songwriter based in Dubai. Jay has collaborated with UAE-based singers and producers, penning English and Hindi lyrics that have reached audiences across the Gulf region.
“I write songs that reflect our life here,” he shares. “From late-night drives on Sheikh Zayed Road to the quiet moments of prayer and family. These are our stories.”
Many UAE songwriters say that being heard hasn’t been easy. At first, there was little support or recognition for lyricists. Most studios preferred to work with singers and composers from abroad. But social media changed everything.
Now, songwriters like Reem Khalid, a Bahraini-Emirati artist, use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to post original lyrics and spoken-word performances. Her emotionally raw poetry has connected with thousands of followers, many of whom have become fans of her full songs.
“There’s no filter anymore,” Reem explains. “If people like your words, they’ll support you—whether you’re in a studio or just recording on your phone.”
Streaming platforms like Anghami, Spotify, and YouTube have also opened the door for independent lyricists to promote their work. Some even team up with singers online, creating music that crosses borders.
One unique thing about the UAE’s songwriting scene is its mix of cultures. Lyricists often blend languages and styles. A single track might combine Arabic poetry, Western pop structure, and Indian melody.
Zayed Al Noor, a Sudanese lyricist who lives in Sharjah, says this is what makes UAE music special.
“We have a global ear but local hearts,” he says. “I can write a verse in Arabic and follow it with English. The emotion is what connects it all.”
This fusion not only attracts local fans but also builds bridges to listeners around the world. Music becomes a tool of cultural exchange, showing how stories from the UAE can reach global charts.
While songwriting may sound glamorous, it is often filled with long hours, rewrites, and emotional energy. Most lyricists say the process starts with a feeling or message they want to express.
“I’ll write twenty lines and throw away fifteen,” says Jay Singh. “You have to be tough on yourself. Every word must count.”
Some songwriters use traditional poetry forms. Others write freely and shape the lyrics later to fit a melody. Collaboration is common, with lyricists often working alongside composers, singers, and producers to create a final track.
Reem Khalid adds, “You’re not just writing for yourself. You’re writing for someone else to sing it and for thousands to feel it. That’s a big responsibility.”
Many top UAE songwriters are now helping new talent. Workshops, songwriting camps, and university programs are becoming more common. Organizations like Dubai Media City and Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation are creating more platforms for creative development.
Fatima Al Mazrouei mentors teenage girls in Abu Dhabi through poetry and lyric writing workshops.
“I want young girls to know they can turn their emotions into power,” she says. “Our stories matter. Our voices matter.”
This growing support system could lead to more global hits coming straight from the Emirates.
UAE becomes a regional music hub, the role of lyricists will only grow. With a diverse population, strong tech support, and rising interest in authentic storytelling, the conditions are perfect for lyricists to thrive.
Listeners are no longer just dancing to the beat they’re paying attention to the words. And behind those words are talented artists whose stories are just beginning to be told.
For now, UAE’s top songwriters are writing more than just lyrics. They are writing a new chapter in the region’s creative future one powerful line at a time.
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