Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), a part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, has unveiled the shortlists for the fourth edition of the Kanz Al Jeel Award. This announcement marks a significant step towards recognizing outstanding works of Nabati poetry and promoting related studies.
According to Emirates News Agency, the award was established by the ALC with the intent to celebrate exemplary Nabati poetry, revive the rich heritage and values of this art form, and encourage studies and research in the field. The Higher Committee of the Award, chaired by Ali Obaid Al Hameli, an Emirati writer and media professional, has approved a shortlist of 17 nominated works from nine Arab and foreign countries across four main categories.
This selection is a precursor to the announcement of the winners, which will be decided in the forthcoming meeting of the Board of Trustees. The categories include Arts, Poetic Publications, Poetry Matching, and Studies and Research, with six works in Arts, three in Poetic Publications, five in Poetry Matching, and three in Studies and Research. The Translation category was not included this year following a review by the Higher Committee members, who include Dr. Hamda Al Hammadi, Dr. Shakir Noori, poet Obaid bin Qadlan Al Mazrouei, and Dr. Abdullah Ghliss, with Waleed Alaaeldin serving as rapporteur.
This year, the Kanz Al Jeel Award witnessed a total of 830 entries across its six categories from 35 countries, including 19 Arab nations. This represents a 38 percent increase from the previous edition's 601 nominations, underscoring the award's growing reputation and the Emirati culture's influence in the domain of Nabati poetry both regionally and internationally.
The shortlisted works originate from nine countries: Egypt, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, and the United Kingdom. The selection was based on the works' adherence to award criteria, their connection to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and their potential to inspire future generations and strengthen cultural and heritage bonds. The award itself is named after one of Sheikh Zayed's enduring poems, reflecting its deep cultural significance.