Abdelkader Benali was born on November 25, 1975, in Morocco. At the age of four, his family, who were of Berber background, migrated from northern Morocco to The Netherlands. They settled in Rotterdam, where his father worked as a butcher. Despite being brought up in a Muslim tradition, Benali is a non-believer.
Benali started his writing career in 1996 with the publication of his work "Bruiloft aan zee" (Wedding by the Sea). Since then, he has established himself as a prominent Moroccan-Dutch journalist and fiction writer. He is known for his writing on running, both fictionally and journalistically, as well as his exploration of various genres including crime thrillers.
Aside from writing, Benali is an avid long-distance runner. He achieved a personal record of 2:52:19 in the marathon. He wrote a book titled "Marathonloper" (Marathon Runner) chronicling his failed attempt to improve his best result. His focus on running aligns him with renowned authors such as Haruki Murakami and Malcolm Gladwell.
Benali's family background and migration from Morocco to The Netherlands have had a profound influence on his life and work. Growing up in Rotterdam, he was exposed to diverse cultural influences which have shaped his writing style. His experiences as an immigrant have also informed his perspective on identity and belonging.
Benali's fiction is often compared to that of fellow Moroccan-born writer Laila Lalami. His nuanced portrayal of immigrant experiences and multicultural identity resonates with readers from diverse backgrounds. He continues to push boundaries in his writing, blending genres and themes to create compelling narratives.
In addition to writing about running and crime thrillers, Benali also explores themes related to art and culture in his work. His interest in these subjects adds depth to his storytelling, reflecting his passion for creativity and expression. Through his writing, he invites readers to engage with complex ideas and emotions.