Noora Al Awadi brings Emirati stories to New York Comic Con

Emirati comic book writer Noora Al Awadi took two very different characters to New York Comic Con in October, using a curious cat and a parrot mafia boss to introduce international readers to life in the UAE. She presented her work through the Abu Dhabi studio Sandstorm Comics at the four-day convention.

Her first title, Tamtoom, co-written with Mo Abedin, follows a cat who notices that people around him appear to be dressed like clouds. The story explores the kandura, the traditional garment worn by Emirati men. Al Awadi told The National that the book was partly created for children unfamiliar with the UAE, but it has also resonated with young Emiratis. Her nephew, she said, became so attached to the story that he began insisting on wearing a kandura at home.

Her second comic, Mato, takes a less conventional route. Inspired by her pet parrot, Al Awadi imagines the bird as a mafia boss navigating friendship, betrayal and a rivalry with another bird named Bulbul. The action unfolds on the streets of Abu Dhabi, with local roads, clothing and surroundings woven into the story. She said she wanted a tale that could appeal to readers anywhere while quietly introducing Emirati elements.

Al Awadi admitted she was unsure whether her culturally specific work would find buyers internationally, but Mato turned out to be the stronger seller in New York. She also met Arab and Muslim families living in the city who were excited to find stories that could introduce their children to a culture they recognised. “We know Hollywood from the movies, so why not know UAE from our comics?” she said.

Her path to publishing was not straightforward. After studying management information systems and working in analytical corporate roles, she felt her creative side was “suffocated”. Meeting the Sandstorm Comics team changed her approach, allowing her to collaborate rather than manage every part of a project alone.