Luxor Celebrates a Decade of the Arabic Poetry Festival

Under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Egypt recently marked the 10th anniversary of the House of Poetry in Luxor, which was founded in 2015. This significant milestone aligned with the launch of the 10th Luxor Festival of Arabic Poetry, organized by the Sharjah Department of Culture in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. The festival, spanning four days, gathered more than 140 creatives, including Egyptian and Arab poets, artists, and critics.

The festivity commenced at the Luxor Conference Centre Theatre, attended by prominent figures including Abdullah bin Muhammad Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture; Muhammad Ibrahim Al Qasir, Director of Cultural Affairs; Abdel-Muttalib Amara, Governor of Luxor; and Dr. Khaled Abu Al-Leil, Chairman of the Egyptian General Book Organisation. A diverse audience of academics, students, and cultural enthusiasts participated as well.

Hussein Al-Qabbahi, Director of the Luxor House of Poetry, reflected on the achievements of the House over the last decade, stating it has become a key platform for young talent and has propelled many creatives to the forefront of Egyptian, Arab, and international arts and culture. The House has collaborated with various public and private entities, nurturing a spirit of cooperation based on a mutual appreciation for culture and creativity.

Al-Qabbahi underscored the significance of the festival's opening night, which showcased four poets aged under 25, reaffirming the House's commitment to uplifting youth. He expressed that the initiative promotes universal human values, love, and belonging, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arabian Gulf.

Abdullah Al-Owais lauded the accomplishments of the House of Poetry, sharing that, “This cultural event has become a radiant beacon within the Arab literary landscape. In its 10th edition, it continues its journey of excellence and varied cultural contributions.” He further mentioned how the House provides opportunities for budding poets, enriching the Arab poetic movement through a blend of tradition and modernity.

Dr. Khaled Abu Al-Leil, representing Egypt’s Minister of Culture Ahmed Fouad Henou, expressed that H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's patronage has played a pivotal role in Arab culture. He highlighted how the House of Poetry initiative embodies robust and enduring cultural collaboration between Sharjah and Egypt.

Governor Abdel-Muttalib Amara remarked that Luxor is proud to host the Poetry House, which organizes this annual gathering, connecting poets and creatives from across the Arab world.

Throughout its first ten years, the House of Poetry has orchestrated over 600 cultural events with nearly 3,000 poets participating. Additionally, it has conducted over 250 critical seminars featuring 480 critics, organized 25 training courses, showcased 20 exhibitions of Arabic calligraphy and visual arts, and published more than 50 books.

During the event, both Al-Owais and Al-Qasir were acknowledged for their invaluable contributions. Dr. Mohamed Abu El-Fadl Badran, an esteemed Egyptian critic and academic, was honored as the Cultural Personality of the Year for this edition, recognizing his profound impact on Arab poetry and culture.

The festival and the House of Poetry remain committed to advancing Arab literature, fostering young talent, and enhancing cultural connections throughout the region, celebrating a decade full of artistic excellence and inspiration.