Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch of the 20th Sharjah Arabic Poetry Festival at the Cultural Palace. The event, organized by the Department of Culture, featured over 70 poets, critics, and media figures from various Arab countries. The festival, running for seven days until January 14, began with a video showcasing the honored poets’ lives and achievements.
The ceremony included recognition for two winners of the Sharjah Award for Arabic Poetry in 2024: Ali Al Shaali from the UAE and Arif Al Saadi from Iraq. Additionally, the Sharjah Award for Arabic Poetry Criticism saw Tunisian critic Al-Moncef Al-Wahaibi in first place, followed by Moroccan critics Anouar Benyaish and Al Hussein Benbada.
His Highness honored the awardees and listened to poetry readings by Ali Al Shaali and Arif Al Saadi. The festival’s diverse events include poetry evenings, sessions, book signings, and discussions by Arab critics on the development of Arabic poetry. The festival concludes with a poetry evening in Khorfakkan.
The Sharjah Arabic Poetry Festival plays a crucial role in preserving poetic traditions and nurturing the poetic heritage. It enriches the literary landscape by hosting poets, critics, and poetry lovers, illuminating the Emirates’ nights with poetry and enhancing the festival’s intellectual program. Notable attendees included Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Rashid Ahmed bin Al Shaikh, and other prominent figures from various fields.
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