Sharjah: Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 20th Sharjah Nabati Poetry Festival will commence next Monday, running from 2nd to 9th February across Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Kalba. Organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture, the eight-day festival will bring together more than 70 poets from across the Arab world, alongside critics and media professionals, celebrating Nabati poetry as a vital pillar of Arab cultural heritage.
According to Emirates News Agency, Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture, highlighted that the festival reflects Sharjah's ongoing commitment to preserving Nabati poetry and supporting both established and emerging voices. He emphasized that sustained support has played a key role in reviving interest in this traditional art form and creating platforms for creative exchange.
Al Owais added that various cultural initiatives, including the revitalisation of the historic Al Hira area and the launch of Al Hira magazine dedicated to Nabati poetry, have contributed significantly to enriching the poetic landscape and strengthening Sharjah's cultural presence.
The festival will honour poets Saeed Boulahaj Al Rumaithi and Ali Juma Al Suwaidi in recognition of their contributions to poetry. Activities planned for the festival include eight poetry evenings and a dedicated discussion highlighting the literary journeys of the honoured poets.
The opening ceremony is set to take place at the Cultural Palace in Sharjah, featuring a documentary film on the two honourees, followed by poetry readings and discussions over the first six days. Poets Saeed Saif Al Tunaiji and Saeed bin Ghalita will participate in the opening poetry sessions.
On the final two days, festival activities will transition to Al Dhaid and Kalba, where local cultural centres will host poetry evenings. These events aim to highlight the cultural identity and heritage of the two cities and broaden community engagement with the festival.