What do you think?
Rate this book
The Red Island | The Gatekeeper: A Middle Eastern Literary Romance
A captivating blend of reality and fantasy, a love letter to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The Red The Gatekeeper is set in the forgotten ruins of Al Jazirah Al Hamra.
It is here that a young Emirati man must confront his deepest fears and the magic that binds his fate. As he seeks to rescue a friend and reunite with his lost love, whispers of jinns and dark magic challenge his very identity. Will he find the strength to face his demons, or will he be consumed by the darkness lurking within?
Immerse yourself in this rare English-language Emirati novel, a mesmerizing coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of the UAE in 2001, weaved with rich Arab culture and heritage, which delves into profound themes of love, identity, and cultural fears.
It is here that a young Emirati man must confront his deepest fears and the magic that binds his fate. As he seeks to rescue a friend and reunite with his lost love, whispers of jinns and dark magic challenge his very identity. Will he find the strength to face his demons, or will he be consumed by the darkness lurking within?
Immerse yourself in this rare English-language Emirati novel, a mesmerizing coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of the UAE in 2001, weaved with rich Arab culture and heritage, which delves into profound themes of love, identity, and cultural fears.
Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2024
3 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Adil Alzarooni
3 books6 followersDr. Adil Alzarooni is an Emirati leader of entrepreneurial teams, committed to lifelong learning.
With over two decades of experience in executive management, investments, sales, logistics, IT security and economic zone development, he has served in various leadership positions within UAE government entities as well as family-owned businesses. He has bolstered his portfolio with directorship positions in a number of firms in diverse sectors including healthcare, education, financial services, logistics, media, technology, food and beverage, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) and real estate. Currently, he operates two family offices.
Dr. Adil holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the Etisalat College of Engineering, a master’s in business administration from American University of Sharjah and a PhD in family businesses and business systems from the British University in Dubai. He is a passionate educator and an inspiring public speaker in the fields of economic zone development and sustainability of family businesses. He is the co-author of Economic Zones: The Essentials and the author of Sustaining Family Businesses: The Essentials.
With over two decades of experience in executive management, investments, sales, logistics, IT security and economic zone development, he has served in various leadership positions within UAE government entities as well as family-owned businesses. He has bolstered his portfolio with directorship positions in a number of firms in diverse sectors including healthcare, education, financial services, logistics, media, technology, food and beverage, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) and real estate. Currently, he operates two family offices.
Dr. Adil holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the Etisalat College of Engineering, a master’s in business administration from American University of Sharjah and a PhD in family businesses and business systems from the British University in Dubai. He is a passionate educator and an inspiring public speaker in the fields of economic zone development and sustainability of family businesses. He is the co-author of Economic Zones: The Essentials and the author of Sustaining Family Businesses: The Essentials.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 13, 2025
As a non-religious expat with limited knowledge of the history, religion, or cultural nuances of the UAE and the broader Middle East, The Red Island offered a refreshing and insightful window into local Emirati life. Though fictional, the story feels so grounded and realistic — almost as if it truly happened in Dubai — blending personal narratives with cultural layers in a way that’s both engaging and thought-provoking.
The novel intertwines several Emirati love stories, each with its own distinct tone and emotional depth, while also exploring the aspirations and personal growth of young local men.
Arabic phrases such as inshallah are woven seamlessly into the dialogue, adding a unique cultural texture. It creates an authentic and immersive atmosphere. For expats like me, encountering these expressions is often a first step toward understanding and engaging with the local culture.
I was especially fascinated by the jinns and would love to see more stories centered around them. Before reading this book, my only reference to jinns was the genie from Aladdin — a smoky, magical creature. But through this novel, I learned that jinns come in many forms, with their own thoughts and personalities.
After finishing the novel, I even set up some bakhoor at home — partly out of curiosity, and partly to imagine a more mystical connection with the world of jinns. That small ritual added another layer to my personal experience with the story.
The author’s storytelling is also sophisticated and well-crafted. The structure, pacing, and transitions between chapters make for a smooth and enjoyable reading experience.
The novel intertwines several Emirati love stories, each with its own distinct tone and emotional depth, while also exploring the aspirations and personal growth of young local men.
Arabic phrases such as inshallah are woven seamlessly into the dialogue, adding a unique cultural texture. It creates an authentic and immersive atmosphere. For expats like me, encountering these expressions is often a first step toward understanding and engaging with the local culture.
I was especially fascinated by the jinns and would love to see more stories centered around them. Before reading this book, my only reference to jinns was the genie from Aladdin — a smoky, magical creature. But through this novel, I learned that jinns come in many forms, with their own thoughts and personalities.
After finishing the novel, I even set up some bakhoor at home — partly out of curiosity, and partly to imagine a more mystical connection with the world of jinns. That small ritual added another layer to my personal experience with the story.
The author’s storytelling is also sophisticated and well-crafted. The structure, pacing, and transitions between chapters make for a smooth and enjoyable reading experience.
April 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐
I was about 5 chapters in and the book was un-put-down-able. I loved the fusion of real life and fantasy elements. The writing was pretty seamless, easy to read, and gripping, loved how Arabic terms flawlessly blended in with the dialogue, highlighting the Arab/Emirati culture being portrayed.
I really enjoyed this book because it contained a lot of elements like love, loss, secrets, betrayal, as well as religious and cultural identity. There were some amazing quotes about love that I couldn't help but highlight!
I especially enjoyed the plot-twist at the end! It was so great!!!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC of this book. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who'd wanna read a fantasy book with Arab culture elements!
I was about 5 chapters in and the book was un-put-down-able. I loved the fusion of real life and fantasy elements. The writing was pretty seamless, easy to read, and gripping, loved how Arabic terms flawlessly blended in with the dialogue, highlighting the Arab/Emirati culture being portrayed.
I really enjoyed this book because it contained a lot of elements like love, loss, secrets, betrayal, as well as religious and cultural identity. There were some amazing quotes about love that I couldn't help but highlight!
I especially enjoyed the plot-twist at the end! It was so great!!!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC of this book. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who'd wanna read a fantasy book with Arab culture elements!
November 23, 2024
The Red Island: The Gatekeeper is a wonderful exploration of the Emirati culture blended with fantasy, following Badr’s gripping journey through an eerie, jinn-haunted town. The story masterfully explores themes of love, betrayal, and cultural identity, while weaving a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern lore. I was captivated by the vivid imagery and the authenticity of the cultural backdrop—it felt like stepping into another world. This book is a great read for anyone who loves fantasy with a deeply personal and cultural twist.
January 3, 2025
The Red Island : The Gatekeeper has a beautifully narrated storyline with Badr's mystical journey which is a world full of truth and legends. The story is so amazingly narrated that I completed reading in no time. The story also explores the wonderful Emirati Culture which is so enthralling. It is a book which elevates us from our mundane life with its amazing storline full of love and faith which beautifully engages the readers. I enjoyed and loved reading such a beautiful book and would highly recommend it to everyone.
March 16, 2025
The Red Island Review
After 33 years in the UAE, this is the first English novel I have read that talks about the multifaceted culture here and the folklore stories we only hear from afar. This book explores a journey of self discovery underpinned by true love and true friendship. It delves into what it means to be an Emirati while it shows Badr the way he can become his own man while still respecting his local norms and culture. I loved the tempo of the novel and how quickly it sucks you in to keep reading. A must read for anyone living in the UAE!
After 33 years in the UAE, this is the first English novel I have read that talks about the multifaceted culture here and the folklore stories we only hear from afar. This book explores a journey of self discovery underpinned by true love and true friendship. It delves into what it means to be an Emirati while it shows Badr the way he can become his own man while still respecting his local norms and culture. I loved the tempo of the novel and how quickly it sucks you in to keep reading. A must read for anyone living in the UAE!
Currently reading
January 24, 2025Review of Chapters 1-16 of The Red Island: The Gatekeeper
The novel deals with Badr’s pursuit of goals versus family expectations set out for him which is an interesting combination of ambition, love, societal pressure, and mysticism. His romance with Dana goes against cultural norms set forth but at the same time, Rashid and Aicha highlight how obsession and fate can be toxic. Spirituality, themes of extremism and gender inequality further add to the depth of the story making it more complex. It is truly engaging and very thought provoking!
The novel deals with Badr’s pursuit of goals versus family expectations set out for him which is an interesting combination of ambition, love, societal pressure, and mysticism. His romance with Dana goes against cultural norms set forth but at the same time, Rashid and Aicha highlight how obsession and fate can be toxic. Spirituality, themes of extremism and gender inequality further add to the depth of the story making it more complex. It is truly engaging and very thought provoking!
February 9, 2025
This book is a fascinating blend of history, mystery, and imagination. It tells a compelling story with diverse characters while keeping an exciting sense of adventure. Though fictional, it beautifully reflects the richness of the UAE’s cultural landscape. A thought provoking read that stays with you…highly recommended!
February 12, 2025
The Red Island felt like a mirror reflecting my own experience growing up in a culture where freedom is a distant dream & choices are guided by tradition & beliefs. Its unvarnished exploration of fate, love, & identity pulled me into a journey where tradition & self-discovery clashes, reality is never absolute the only thing that is determined is the question the story leaves behind. The struggle between what we really are & what we would like to be is captured in Badr's journey. It demands us to live in the present, face the future, & accept the anxiety caused from uncertainty. This is more than just a story; it shapes our view on who we are & where we belong in the world, it remains with us after the last page. The Red Island isn't meant to be solved, but it meant to be lived. thank u for the unforgettable journey I look forward to reading your next book and witnessing where your work will take us next
December 16, 2024
The Red Island The Gatekeeper by Adil Alzarooni is an engaging story of faith, culture, and emotion. The author writes with symbolism and uses Middle Eastern culture and a real-life love story of today to write a story of love, loss, and transformation.
The story revolves around a man by the name of Badr and tackles love and grief as well. When driving, his car breaks down in Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a ghost town, and he finds out that he is in a world full of legends and truth.
When the man with the dark, abysmal eyes appears in his life, Badr enters a path of personal transformation that challenges his preconceptions, decisions, and destiny.
Readers who like to read stories about faith, love, and personal battles, this novel is the best. It is also great for anyone that wants to know more about the Middle Eastern cultures.
The story provides lessons on faith, humility, and the transition from pride to sin, its effects, and its consequences. It makes an eagerly awaited point that one has to look his or her history in the face, seek forgiveness, and begin to think of a new start.
I therefore recommend The Red Island | The Gatekeeper to anyone who is in search of a strong and heart-touching story. I actually had a great moment with it.
The story revolves around a man by the name of Badr and tackles love and grief as well. When driving, his car breaks down in Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a ghost town, and he finds out that he is in a world full of legends and truth.
When the man with the dark, abysmal eyes appears in his life, Badr enters a path of personal transformation that challenges his preconceptions, decisions, and destiny.
Readers who like to read stories about faith, love, and personal battles, this novel is the best. It is also great for anyone that wants to know more about the Middle Eastern cultures.
The story provides lessons on faith, humility, and the transition from pride to sin, its effects, and its consequences. It makes an eagerly awaited point that one has to look his or her history in the face, seek forgiveness, and begin to think of a new start.
I therefore recommend The Red Island | The Gatekeeper to anyone who is in search of a strong and heart-touching story. I actually had a great moment with it.
November 25, 2024
The Red Island: The Gatekeeper by Dr. Adil Alzarooni is a fascinating blend of mythology, spirituality, and personal struggles, set against the eerie backdrop of Al Jazirah Al Hamra, a ghost town in the UAE.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how it connects the mystical with the everyday. The jinn and their rituals feel deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, but they’re presented in a way that feels fresh and accessible. The ghost town setting is hauntingly atmospheric, and Abdulaziz’s backstory of heartbreak adds a layer of emotion to the supernatural elements.
The book also touches on relatable themes—Badr’s search for love and meaning, and his conflict between personal desires and societal expectations.
Overall, The Red Island: The Gatekeeper is an engaging and thought-provoking read. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys stories about faith, love, and the unseen world.
An unforgettable journey into the mystical and the human.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how it connects the mystical with the everyday. The jinn and their rituals feel deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, but they’re presented in a way that feels fresh and accessible. The ghost town setting is hauntingly atmospheric, and Abdulaziz’s backstory of heartbreak adds a layer of emotion to the supernatural elements.
The book also touches on relatable themes—Badr’s search for love and meaning, and his conflict between personal desires and societal expectations.
Overall, The Red Island: The Gatekeeper is an engaging and thought-provoking read. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys stories about faith, love, and the unseen world.
An unforgettable journey into the mystical and the human.
May 22, 2025
This book was really unique. I had never read a book before with such story telling elements. I was very pleased with the pace as I was never bored of a section or counting pages and time.
I enjoyed Badr’s story and the ending when he was finally able to marry the love of his life.
I wish the conclusion was a little more drawn out. It felt maybe a bit rushed. Abdul Aziz passing away whereas Badr was able to fulfill his love’s longing was definitely an emotional moment.
I wish there were more details on what happened to Aicha after Rashid had passed.
This storyline definitely required a bit of imagination. I did not mind at all as I can use some imaginative exercise.
This review is all over the place. But to sum it up it was a great book and I enjoyed it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
I enjoyed Badr’s story and the ending when he was finally able to marry the love of his life.
I wish the conclusion was a little more drawn out. It felt maybe a bit rushed. Abdul Aziz passing away whereas Badr was able to fulfill his love’s longing was definitely an emotional moment.
I wish there were more details on what happened to Aicha after Rashid had passed.
This storyline definitely required a bit of imagination. I did not mind at all as I can use some imaginative exercise.
This review is all over the place. But to sum it up it was a great book and I enjoyed it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2025
The Red Island" by Adil Alzarooni is a fascinating and rare English-language novel that masterfully blends Emirati culture and history with fantasy and folklore.
Set primarily in the abandoned town of Al Jazirah Al Hamra (The Red Island) in Ras Al Khaimah in 2001, the story follows a young Emirati man named Badr. He must confront his deepest fears and the whispers of jinns and dark magic that haunt the forgotten ruins as he attempts to rescue a friend and reunite with a lost love.
The novel is described as a Middle Eastern Literary Romance and a mesmerizing coming-of-age tale. It offers an intimate, insider's view of Emirati culture and traditions, exploring profound themes of love, identity, cultural fear, and the clash between heritage and modernity. For those interested in Arabian mythology and a rich cultural backdrop, this book is an immersive and gripping read.
Set primarily in the abandoned town of Al Jazirah Al Hamra (The Red Island) in Ras Al Khaimah in 2001, the story follows a young Emirati man named Badr. He must confront his deepest fears and the whispers of jinns and dark magic that haunt the forgotten ruins as he attempts to rescue a friend and reunite with a lost love.
The novel is described as a Middle Eastern Literary Romance and a mesmerizing coming-of-age tale. It offers an intimate, insider's view of Emirati culture and traditions, exploring profound themes of love, identity, cultural fear, and the clash between heritage and modernity. For those interested in Arabian mythology and a rich cultural backdrop, this book is an immersive and gripping read.
June 29, 2025
The Red Island is a book of its own legacy. Its a read of around 5-7 hours which takes us through a roller coaster ride of mixed emotions, a parallel world of Angels, Jinn and exorcism and much more than that a romantic cinematic experience. It portrays Emirati culture, islamic traditions and human bonding like friendship, parenthood in a very emotional touch. Anyone who wish to submerge into the depths of book reading and a detox from social media, this is the sure first choice. The author Dr Adil has structured the book in the best way to create a visual effect of a movie. The last page will leave you feel like you watched a emotion filled movie. To be true . I am reading the second time. Its such a good read. Happy Reading.
November 22, 2024
The Red Island: The Gatekeeper is like stepping into an Emirati fever dream where jinns, dark magic, and family drama collide. Badr’s journey through Al Jazirah Al Hamra is spooky, surreal, and downright addictive—I couldn’t stop flipping pages! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Middle Eastern legends meet a badass coming-of-age story, THIS is your answer. Grab some gahwa (Arabic coffee) and get ready to be blown away! 🕌✨📖
September 15, 2025
It starts out as a romance but becomes an adventure full of jinns, hauntings and dark magic. I was completely engrossed and this is also a great palate cleanser as it is a mix of multiple genres and is a very quick easy read, you could finish it in a day. I absolutely loved reading a book based in UAE as finally I could visualise the places being described! It's also a great one for westerners to read for a great story + insights into modern Emirati culture.
April 14, 2025
The Red Island was a thoroughly enjoyable read, which kept me constantly engaged and wanting to know what further twists the story has ready for me. It does all that while giving deep insights into Emirati society. For tourists or residents who want to experience an exhilarating dive into a culture that they might not be so familiar with, this Middle Eastern romance novel is the perfect entry point. Passages from the Quran introduce each chapter beautifully and invite comparisons with one's own belief system.
The story is tightly told and the pace is fast, yet leaves many passages for contemplation. One of the central questions of the book on the nature of love is treated with lots of understanding. Especially the end of the story is very raw yet told with empathy. I can highly recommend the book as an insightful introduction into Emirati society and as a fast-paced romance novel.
The story is tightly told and the pace is fast, yet leaves many passages for contemplation. One of the central questions of the book on the nature of love is treated with lots of understanding. Especially the end of the story is very raw yet told with empathy. I can highly recommend the book as an insightful introduction into Emirati society and as a fast-paced romance novel.
June 22, 2025
An easy read and easy to follow narrative if you are familiar with the region and the religion. A lot of nuances are not explained.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews