22nd Arabic Poetry Festival Kicks Off in Sharjah

Sharjah has once again demonstrated its cultural significance in the Arab world as His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi inaugurated the 22nd Sharjah Festival of Arabic Poetry on Monday night at the Cultural Palace.

This week-long festival has attracted more than 80 poets, critics, and media figures from across the Arab regions, along with participants from several African countries. The grand opening emphasized Sharjah’s dedication to safeguarding the Arabic language, poetry, and literary tradition.

During the inaugural event, a recorded presentation titled “Years of Poetry” was showcased, highlighting a decade of poetry houses initiated under the patronage of the Ruler of Sharjah. These institutions have become vital cultural hubs, fostering poetic talent, sparking literary discussions, and strengthening ties between poets and critics.

The ceremony also honored remarkable literary achievements. Dr. Ahmed Balboula secured the Sharjah Prize for Arabic Poetry, while the Sharjah Prize for Poetry Criticism was bestowed upon Mahrez Ben Mohsen Rachdi from Tunisia (first place), Al Mahdi Al Araj from Morocco (second), and Al Hassan Mohamed Mahmoud from Mauritania (third).

The night also featured poetry readings from Emirati poet Najat Al Dhaheri, Egyptian poet Dr. Ahmed Balboula, and Iraqi poet Hazbar Mahmoud, presenting the audience with a rich variety of poetic forms and styles.

Throughout the festival, attendees can look forward to a week filled with poetry readings, cultural events, and interactive discussions aimed at fostering open dialogue. A designated book-signing area will allow fans to connect directly with poets, and the work of 12 recipients of the Golden Rhyme Award, to be featured in the magazine's 2025 issues, will be spotlighted.

The opening ceremony was graced by senior officials, including Sheikh Dr. Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Office, alongside leaders from various cultural and administrative sectors in Sharjah, poets, critics, and fans, all uniting to celebrate the timeless essence of Arabic poetry.