Haitham bin Saqr attends Wadi Al Helo Days for folk poetry
In the presence of Sheikh Haitham bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the Deputy Head of the Ruler's Office in Kalba, the Department of Culture in the Eastern Region organised the Wadi Al Helo Days for folk poetry in its eighth edition on Saturday.
The opening ceremony was attended by Khamees Al Mazrouei, the Wadi Al Helo area governor, Dr. Ahmed Saeed Al Mazrouei, Director of Kalba Municipality, Rashid Al Zaabi, Director of the Eastern Region at the Department of Culture, along with a crowd of officials, representatives from government departments, dignitaries, and local residents.
Participation of elite poets
Shamsa Al Mazrouei, head of the Wadi Al Helo Office at the Department of Culture, mentioned that the events featured the participation of a distinguished group of poets from the country and beyond, who competed in reciting various types of poetry, including shala, ardha, wanah, and other forms of poetry.
Distinct participation of folk and folkloric arts groups
In an interview with "Sharjah 24," she clarified that the new edition of the Wadi Al Helo Days for folk poetry included remarkable participation from folk and folkloric arts groups. Additionally, there was an art exhibition titled "Rock Garden," and a large number of departments and institutions participated in the events, each allocated with diverse stalls in the accompanying village.
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Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah builds cultural bridges between Africa and the Arab world
Amid a time when Arabic poetry faces marginalisation in parts of Africa, Sharjah's forward-thinking initiatives have restored Arabic literature to its rightful place—as a vessel of identity, a tool for dialogue, and a platform for human expression. Coordinators praised the vision behind the Arabic Poetry Forums in Africa—an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah—which has marked the beginning of a new cultural era across the continent. These forums have given hundreds of poets opportunities for visibility, documentation, and publication through structured programmes led by Sharjah's Department of Culture in collaboration with local cultural bodies. Coordinators in nine African nations—Mali, Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Benin, and Côte d'Ivoire—shared updates on preparations for the fourth edition of the poetry forums, set to begin this month. Plans are underway for expanded poet participation and accompanying cultural events. Reviving the Arabic language through poetry Dr Abdelkader Idriss Mega, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Mali, described Sharjah's initiative as a pioneering model that reflects the wide-reaching cultural vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He noted that the initiative is more than just a poetry festival—it is a genuine platform for reviving the Arabic language in historically Arabic-speaking communities. Dr Mega highlighted the forums' role in elevating poetry as a cultural force in Mali, a country where African depth intersects with Arab-Islamic heritage. 'Sharjah's support represents a living example of Afro-Arab cultural integration, and a genuine embodiment of His Highness's vision for building literary bridges across the region,' he said. 'It has granted African poets a worthy platform, embraced their talents, and nurtured creativity in a respectful, professional atmosphere.' He emphasised the clear impact: a vibrant poetry movement, an interactive cultural space blending authenticity and openness, and a rejuvenated local cultural scene that had long suffered from stagnation. Looking ahead to Mali's fourth poetry forum Dr Mega stated that Mali's Arabic Poetry Forum continues to grow in terms of organisation, content, and participation. The number of poets has doubled this year, drawing a rich mix of emerging and established voices from across the country. The fourth edition will welcome between 15 and 20 poets from Bamako and other regions. What sets this edition apart is the broader participation and more diverse poetic styles, alongside growing public interest. The forum has drawn the attention of prominent figures, intellectuals, academics, university students, and media professionals, giving it greater cultural and institutional weight. The accompanying programme includes poetry readings, literary discussions, and workshops on Arabic poetic techniques, in addition to interactive sessions between poets and the public—fostering cultural exchange and deepening aesthetic appreciation for poetry. Cultural renewal through Sharjah's literary vision Dr Ahmed Abou El Fath Othman, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Chad, described Sharjah's support for Arabic poetry in Africa as a shining example of Arab cultural integration. He praised the leadership of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for reinforcing the Arabic language and culture across both Arabic-speaking regions and beyond. He noted that the poetry forums, organised by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, have contributed to shaping a renewed cultural landscape by creating spaces for creative exchange and restoring poetry's role as a tool of expression, awareness, and identity-building. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Chad, according to Dr Abou El Fath, marks a significant milestone. While 32 poets participated last year, this year's forum is expected to feature over 40 poets, selected from more than 200 submissions. The selection criteria focus on high-calibre classical Arabic poetry. This year's edition is noteworthy for bringing together poets from various regions of Chad on a single platform to share their work with an engaged and appreciative audience. The forum has also opened doors for emerging voices, with many young and aspiring poets seizing this opportunity to prove their talent. Dr Abou El Fath highlighted that some of these poets, after participating in the Chad forum, went on to take part in international poetry gatherings—raising their country's profile on broader cultural stages. He affirmed that none of this would have been possible without Sharjah's generous and strategic support for Arabic culture in Africa. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Sharjah, a beacon of knowledge and creativity, for continually championing Arab literary excellence and broadening its horizons,' he said. A deep encouragement for African Arabic poetry Dr Kaba Imran, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Guinea, expressed how African Arabic poetry is now "breathing freely" again, receiving recognition and honour from an Arab nation—specifically from His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. 'This is a profound source of encouragement for a form of poetry that had long been absent from the African cultural scene,' he said. He noted that the fourth edition of the forum will welcome many new poets. Previously, participation was limited to poets from the capital region, but now, the event draws poets from across all regions of Guinea and even from outside the country. Thanks to the forum, many poets have gained new confidence in their talent and literary voice—especially first-time participants. Dr Imran confirmed that these gatherings have inspired poets with ambitious new horizons and a growing cultural awareness with meaningful impact. Celebrating poetic beauty in Niger Dr Amadou Ali Ibrahim, cultural coordinator in Niger, hailed Sharjah as a cultural capital that continues to celebrate the enduring power of poetry, thanks to the unwavering support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He said the Arabic poetry forums in Africa have been a resounding literary success from the start, leaving a clear cultural imprint across the continent and growing stronger with each edition. Dr Ibrahim expressed hope that this year's forum in Niger will spotlight new poetic talents and attract a larger audience, particularly among Arabic language students in the country. As in previous years, the event will feature two poetry sessions enriched by critical commentary—offering aesthetic insights into the poems—and a literary lecture exploring the Arabic language and its social dimensions within Niger. He is optimistic that this edition will see a stronger poetic presence, not only in the number of poets attending from across the country but also in the strength and beauty of the Arabic poems being shared. 'The forum has become a stage for Niger's promising poetic voices to shine and grow,' he said. Enrichment and empowerment in Nigeria Dr Omar Adam, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Nigeria, highlighted the profound impact of Sharjah's support—under the guidance of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah—on enriching the cultural scene across Africa. Through the forums, a deeper appreciation for the Arabic language and its literary traditions has taken root in multiple African nations. He noted that this support has enabled poets to refine their craft, moving beyond traditional forms to embrace modern poetic techniques aligned with global literary currents. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Nigeria marks a significant cultural moment, building on the success of previous editions and further promoting Arabic poetry and cross-cultural dialogue. Thanks to financial and institutional backing from Sharjah's Department of Culture, several Nigerian poets have published Arabic poetry collections—many for the first time—showcasing a flourishing literary presence in the country. 'This year, we've witnessed an unprecedented number of applications, surpassing those of all previous editions combined,' said Dr Adam. 'It's a clear sign of how deeply these forums have energised the creative spirit and helped develop local poetic talent.' He added that the forum, supported by Sharjah, has spotlighted poetic voices from all regions of Nigeria. 'What began as a symbolic initiative has now become a dynamic platform for Nigerian poets, including those who are not native Arabic speakers, to share their work and connect with the wider Arab literary world. This effort not only preserves heritage but also drives forward a new wave of poetic creativity rooted in rich literary traditions.' Beyond boundaries: Côte d'Ivoire celebrates Arabic verse Dr Bamba Issiaka, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Côte d'Ivoire, said Sharjah's cultural initiative transcends borders and languages, empowering genuine creativity through sustained support, openness to new voices, and a dynamic blend of literary creation and critique. He affirmed that the forums serve as a model for cultural collaboration, showing that poetry still holds the power to build bridges and reshape collective awareness. 'The Arabic Poetry Forum has become a major annual cultural event in Côte d'Ivoire, eagerly anticipated by the public,' he said, citing strong participation from university students and the emergence of talented young poets. According to Dr Issiaka, Sharjah's support does more than offer financial assistance—it maps out a long-term vision for Arabic poetry in Africa. The fourth edition of the forum, he noted, will mark a qualitative leap in the country's cultural scene, with new voices and cities taking part, reflecting the forum's continued growth and expanding reach. A cultural continuum in South Sudan Dr Mohammed Maj Riak, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in South Sudan, described Sharjah's backing of Arabic poetry in Africa as part of a broader cultural vision that embraces creativity in all its forms. This support, he said, helps reaffirm the value of poetry as a means of expressing identity and collective memory. He noted that the forums have added significant value to South Sudan's cultural landscape. 'For this year's edition, we've widened participation to include poets from different generations and schools of thought, with a discerning and appreciative audience engaging closely with the sessions,' said Dr Riak. The accompanying events will include literary workshops, critical forums, and public discussions to enhance interaction between poets and audiences. He stressed that the initiative has played a pivotal role in bringing attention to lesser-known voices and given them opportunities to connect with leading figures from the Arab literary world—broadening their cultural horizons and artistic growth. Tangible momentum in Senegal Dr Mohamed El Hadi Sall, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Senegal, described Sharjah's patronage of Arabic poetry in Africa as a pioneering initiative rooted in a genuine belief in the power of words and their role in bridging cultures. He noted that the support went beyond financial assistance—it was a powerful moral boost that helped elevate local cultural identity and revive interest in Arabic poetry. 'The forums supported by Sharjah created real cultural momentum,' Dr Sall said. 'They opened new spaces for expression and dialogue, allowing a broader audience to engage with poets and their work.' He added that the fourth edition brings greater energy and diversity, with poets from various schools and experiences, along with a rich cultural programme including poetry readings, critical discussions, and parallel artistic performances. 'This year's audience is more engaged and informed than ever, which reflects a growing connection between the public and poetic expression. The event has also drawn strong attention from the cultural community, media, and social networks—clear proof that the forum has become a major annual cultural highlight.' Sustained support in Benin Dr Ibrahim Ogboun, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Benin, said that no discussion of Arabic poetry in Africa today would be complete without acknowledging the vital role of Sharjah. Through its thoughtful cultural initiatives, the emirate has consistently supported the written word and strengthened its presence in the public sphere. He explained that Sharjah's support has evolved into a comprehensive cultural project, offering renewed energy to literary platforms across the continent. 'The poetry forums held under Sharjah's patronage are not seasonal events,' Dr Ogboun stressed. 'They have become a genuine driver of the poetic scene, offering space for experimentation, dialogue, and public engagement.' Speaking about the fourth edition, he added: 'With strong attendance and a wide variety of participants, the forum in Benin is moving confidently toward establishing itself as a leading cultural event in the country. This year's edition will stand out in both format and content, with a larger number of poets and a dynamic series of events including poetry evenings, critical sessions, and open dialogues between creators and a poetry-hungry audience.' Sharjah's initiative, he said, has opened new doors for local poets and introduced fresh voices to the broader Arab poetic tradition. 'The forum has become a true platform for discovering talent and exchanging experiences. Many poets have spoken about how this opportunity transformed their work—whether through new publishing avenues or invitations to take part in Arab literary festivals.'
Gulf Today
01-06-2025
- Gulf Today
Sharjah honours four Jordanian writers in Amman Forum
Under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 22nd edition of the Sharjah Cultural Honours Forum was launched in the Jordanian capital, Amman. The forum celebrated four Jordanian literary figures: translator Prof. Dr Mohammad Al Bakhit, critic Dr Nabil Haddad, academic and critic Mahmoud Al Shalabi, and poet Mohammad Samhan. The forum was held in line with the directives of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to honour literary figures who have significantly contributed to contemporary Arab culture. This marks the fifth time the forum has taken place in Jordan, having previously recognised 16 Jordanian creatives in earlier editions. The honouring ceremony took place at the National Library Department in Amman, in the presence of Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Department of Culture; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department; Hamad Al Matroushi, Chargé d'Affaires at the UAE Embassy in Jordan; Dr. Nidal Al Ayasrah, Secretary-General of the Jordanian Ministry of Culture; National Library Director Rouba Al Shamaila; and a large audience of Jordanian and Arab writers, intellectuals, and cultural figures. STRONG HISTORIC TIES In his speech, Abdullah Al Owais expressed joy at the continued fraternal gatherings that enhance bonds of affection, particularly when united by shared Arab values and cooperation. He highlighted that this spirit is embodied in the strong historic ties between the United Arab Emirates and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, under the leadership of both nations. He said, "Today we are presenting a living example of these principles through the Sharjah Cultural Honours Forum, which aims to recognise cultural figures who have enriched the Arab world with their literary creativity in various fields. After travelling across the Arab world, the forum returns for the fifth time to Jordan to honour a new group of distinguished Jordanian writers who have remained true to their craft and offered a wealth of diverse literary contributions.' Al Owais extended sincere thanks to the Jordanian Ministry of Culture for its ongoing cooperation, which has led to the successful organisation of numerous cultural activities. In his address, Dr Nidal Al Ayasrah welcomed the attendees, "Welcome to Amman, which sends its warmest greetings to Sharjah through this rich cultural tapestry, representing a model of collaboration between Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. It is a great occasion to honour a distinguished group of our nation's creatives across diverse literary fields, who have shown commitment, determination, and a luminous vision in their cultural projects.' He added, "Writers, poets, critics, and historians offer their insight so that others may benefit, often sacrificing their time and energy for the greater cultural good. The moments that bring them joy are those when words come alive, when wisdom and philosophy are shared, when poetry is in the air, and when younger generations connect with their rich Arab heritage.' 'NOBLE CIVILISATIONALS INITIATIVE ' Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Professor Dr Mohammad Al Bakhit said, "On behalf of myself and my fellow honourees, I extend our sincere gratitude to His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, for his noble civilisational initiative to recognise those who have served culture in their communities, countries, and among their audiences-particularly in these challenging times facing the Arab world and its intellectuals. These circumstances call for creative initiatives capable of transforming reality and overcoming obstacles, so that intellectuals may play an active role in enriching civilisational life.' The honouring ceremony was accompanied by an exhibition showcasing a range of publications from the Sharjah Department of Culture. Among the featured titles were Sharjah Cultural Magazine, Al Rafid, Al Qawafi, Theatre Magazine, Al Heera from Sharjah, and a collection of books across various literary genres. The exhibition attracted a large audience, with many keen to browse and acquire these culturally rich titles. The ceremony was moderated by Jordanian poet Iman Abdel Hadi, who opened by praising Sharjah's pioneering role in promoting Arab cultural life and noted that the emirate has become a leading model for cultural initiatives across the region. WAM
Sharjah 24
31-05-2025
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah honours four Jordanian writers in Amman Forum
The forum celebrated four Jordanian literary figures: translator Prof. Dr. Mohammad Al Bakhit, critic Dr. Nabil Haddad, academic and critic Mahmoud Al Shalabi, and poet Mohammad Samhan. The forum is held in line with the directives of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to honour literary figures who have significantly contributed to contemporary Arab culture. This marks the fifth time the forum has taken place in Jordan, having previously recognised 16 Jordanian creatives in earlier editions. Ceremony held at National Library in Amman The honouring ceremony took place at the National Library Department in Amman, in the presence of His Excellency Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Department of Culture ; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department; Hamad Al Matroushi, Chargé d'Affaires at the UAE Embassy in Jordan; Dr. Nidal Al Ayasrah, Secretary-General of the Jordanian Ministry of Culture; National Library Director Rouba Al Shamaila; and a large audience of Jordanian and Arab writers, intellectuals, and cultural figures. The ceremony was moderated by Jordanian poet Iman Abdel Hadi, who opened by praising Sharjah's pioneering role in promoting Arab cultural life and noted that the emirate has become a leading model for cultural initiatives across the region. Creativity and contribution In his speech, Abdullah Al Owais expressed joy at the continued fraternal gatherings that enhance bonds of affection, particularly when united by shared Arab values and cooperation. He highlighted that this spirit is embodied in the strong historic ties between the United Arab Emirates and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, under the leadership of both nations. He said: 'Today we are presenting a living example of these principles through the Sharjah Cultural Honours Forum, which aims to recognise cultural figures who have enriched the Arab world with their literary creativity in various fields. After travelling across the Arab world, the forum returns for the fifth time to Jordan to honour a new group of distinguished Jordanian writers who have remained true to their craft and offered a wealth of diverse literary contributions.' Al Owais extended sincere thanks to the Jordanian Ministry of Culture for its ongoing cooperation, which has led to the successful organisation of numerous cultural activities. He also conveyed the congratulations of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi to the honourees, in appreciation of their dedication and cultural contributions, along with His Highness's warm regards and best wishes for their continued success. Shaping cultural action In his address, Dr. Nidal Al Ayasrah welcomed the attendees: 'Welcome to Amman, which sends its warmest greetings to Sharjah through this rich cultural tapestry, representing a model of collaboration between Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. It is a great occasion to honour a distinguished group of our nation's creatives across diverse literary fields, who have shown commitment, determination, and a luminous vision in their cultural projects.' He added: 'Writers, poets, critics, and historians offer their insight so that others may benefit, often sacrificing their time and energy for the greater cultural good. The moments that bring them joy are those when words come alive, when wisdom and philosophy are shared, when poetry is in the air, and when younger generations connect with their rich Arab heritage.' Al Ayasrah emphasised that such efforts gain immense value when supported by a generous hand like that of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. 'It is then that we feel reassured that literature, thought, and history are alive and well, lighting the path forward and opening the doors of Islamic Arab civilisation to reflection, learning, and aspiration.' He continued: 'In Jordan, His Majesty King Abdullah II has consistently championed culture and intellectual development. And when Jordanian creatives join hands with their counterparts from the UAE, we see the embodiment of a shared Arab project and an ambition to explore new horizons in literature, arts, science, and thought.' Sharjah: A beacon of Arab culture Al Ayasrah went on to say: 'Sharjah has truly become a destination for intellectuals and a shining jewel in the crown of Arab culture. It stands today as a model for cultural work in all its dimensions, thanks to the vision of its ruler, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi—a scholar, writer, historian, and thinker whose generous support for culture, artists, intellectuals, and scientists knows no bounds.' 'In Sharjah, hardly a day passes without a lecture, conference, festival, or cultural gathering. The emirate has rightly earned its title as Capital of Arab Culture. We take this opportunity to say: thank you, Your Highness, for your noble humanity.' Reflecting on the forum itself, Al Ayasrah said: 'We deeply value the symbolic significance of the Sharjah Cultural Honours Forum and the powerful motivation it offers. Now in its fifth edition in Jordan and 22nd across the Arab world, it is a journey deserving of respect. It confirms Sharjah's enduring role in shaping and inspiring Arab creativity.' He concluded by highlighting the broader impact of Sharjah's cultural initiatives—from the founding of Arabic poetry houses to critical awards in poetry and visual arts, as well as festivals of arts and Arabic calligraphy. 'All of this makes Sharjah a vibrant space for culture and enlightenment.' A cultural renaissance Hamad Al Matroushi delivered a speech in which he said: 'It is a great honour to participate in the 22nd edition of the Sharjah Cultural Honours Forum, held at the National Library in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and to be among this distinguished and creative group of intellectuals and writers.' He added: 'The directives and vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, have played a major role in advancing the cultural renaissance in the UAE and the Arab world at large. His Highness has consistently supported and followed up on the work of both Emirati and Arab intellectuals and writers through pioneering intellectual and cultural initiatives, including the Sharjah Cultural Honours Forum, which is closely overseen by the Department of Culture in Sharjah. The emirate's significant contributions and its dynamic cultural and literary movement at both the local and regional levels have earned admiration and appreciation from all, rightfully securing Sharjah's title as the Capital of Culture.' He concluded: 'Finally, I would like to take this remarkable and renewed cultural event as an opportunity to express with pride the deep fraternal ties between our two countries across all fields—relations that stand as a model of excellence in international cooperation.' A civilisational initiative Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Professor Dr. Mohammad Al Bakhit began his speech by saying: 'This is the fifth time that His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has honoured a group of Jordanian intellectuals who have contributed to Arab culture in the modern era. Over the years, His Highness has graciously honoured many figures across the Arab world.' He continued: 'On behalf of myself and my fellow honourees, I extend our sincere gratitude to His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, for his noble civilisational initiative to recognise those who have served culture in their communities, countries, and among their audiences—particularly in these challenging times facing the Arab world and its intellectuals. These circumstances call for creative initiatives capable of transforming reality and overcoming obstacles, so that intellectuals may play an active role in enriching civilisational life.' Al Bakhit added: 'Once again, we thank the Ruler of Sharjah for this initiative. Our thanks also go to the organisers of this event and to the staff of the National Library, which preserves our national memory, images, and cherished aspirations.' Snapshots of the honourees Dr. Mohammad Adnan Al Bakhit , translator and President of the Jordanian Academy of Arabic Language, holds a BA in Arts/History from the American University of Beirut (1963), an MA in Islamic History from the same institution (1965), and a PhD in Islamic History from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London (1972). Dr Al Bakhit is proficient in Arabic, English, and Turkish, and has had a long academic career in research and translation. He founded the Centre for Documents and Manuscripts at the University of Jordan and has published numerous studies and books. Dr. Nabil Youssef Haddad , born in Beisan in 1948, holds a post-doctoral certificate in writing and editing from the University of Missouri-Columbia (USA), sponsored by Yarmouk University, and a PhD in modern Arabic fiction from Ain Shams University (Egypt). Among his publications are The Novel in Jordan: Spaces and Foundations , Writing with the Pains of the Present: Textual Studies in Jordanian Fiction , Perspectives on the Egyptian Novel , Journalism in Jordan , and several works on journalistic styles, skills, and issues. Mohammad Samhan is a poet, critic, historian, writer, and journalist who has actively worked in these fields for more than fifty years. His published poetry includes Two Melodies on a Broken String , Hymns of the Canaanite Knight , and Trinities , among other works and unpublished manuscripts. His poetry has been translated into English, Serbian, Swedish, and Spanish. Dr. Mahmoud Al Shalabi , critic and academic, was born in Danna/Beisan in 1943. He holds an MA and PhD in literature and criticism from Al-Azhar University in Egypt. Warm atmosphere The honouring ceremony was attended by the families of the honourees, who came to share in the celebration. Their presence added a unique human touch to the event, filling it with warmth, pride, and heartfelt gratitude. Attendees expressed their joy at this recognition, viewing it as a well-earned reward for the honourees' dedication and cultural mission. In addition to the strong family turnout, university students and representatives from local cultural institutions were also present to celebrate the honourees. Many expressed appreciation to Sharjah for its consistent focus on writers, who are seen as mentors and guiding figures for future generations. Certificates of recognition At the end of the ceremony, Abdullah Al Owais, Mohammed Al Qaseer, Hamad Al Matroushi, and Nidal Al Ayasrah presented certificates of recognition to the four honourees. These were signed by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah as a tribute to their literary and intellectual contributions to the Arab cultural scene. Documentary tribute Attendees viewed a short documentary highlighting the personal and creative journeys of the four honourees. The film offered glimpses into their achievements and lasting impact in the fields of culture and creativity, portraying their careers as missions of purpose that transformed challenges into opportunities—making them truly deserving of celebration. The audience found the screening an opportunity to learn more about the honourees, both culturally and personally. Publications on display The honouring ceremony was accompanied by an exhibition showcasing a range of publications from the Sharjah Department of Culture. Among the featured titles were Sharjah Cultural Magazine , Al Rafid , Al Qawafi , Theatre Magazine , Al Heera from Sharjah , and a collection of books across various literary genres. The exhibition attracted a large audience, with many keen to browse and acquire these culturally rich titles.
