Sharjah: H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch of the 20th edition of the Sharjah Nabati Poetry Festival, which runs from 2 to 9 February. The event features the participation of more than 70 poets, alongside a select group of critics and media professionals from across the Arab world. The festival is being held at the Cultural Palace.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Ruler of Sharjah honoured poets Saeed Boulahaj Al Rumaithi and Ali Jumaa Al Suwaidi for their cultural and literary efforts in the field of Nabati poetry. Their contributions have been recognized for preserving authentic poetic heritage, enhancing its cultural presence, and enriching the literary scene with works that embody national identity and societal values.
H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan and attendees viewed a presentation that highlighted the journeys of the two poets, showcasing key literary milestones and their contributions to Nabati poetry. The honoured poets expressed their gratitude to His Highness for the recognition and for his continued support.
The Sharjah Nabati Poetry Festival is a significant cultural event that unites poets, critics, and audiences, fostering the development of Nabati poetry. It reaffirms the status of Nabati poetry within Emirati society, emphasizing cultural identity and exploring its aesthetic dimensions while documenting the poetic scene in the Emirati, Gulf, and Arab contexts.
This year's festival offers a programme of activities, including eight poetry evenings and a critical seminar discussing the honorees' literary journeys. The festival will extend to the cities of Al Dhaid and Kalba, highlighting geographical and cultural diversity and allowing participants to explore the cultural, heritage, and historical aspects of these cities.
The ceremony was attended by Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler's Office; Rashid Ahmed bin Al Shaikh, Head of the Amiri Diwan; Abdullah Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture; Ali Salem Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah International Airport Authority; Dr Mansoor bin Nassar, Chairman of the Legal Department of Sharjah; Hamad Ali Al Mahmoud, Chairman of the Sharjah Economic Development Department; Major General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police; along with senior officials, poets, and media professionals.