The Sharjah Arts Foundation’s “Dialogues” programme continues its exploration of significant cultural and artistic experiences, both locally and across the Arab world. On Saturday, 15 August 2026, the foundation will host its second session featuring Dr. Yusuf Eidabi, the cultural advisor at the Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies. The event will take place at 6:00 PM in the Flying Saucer building.
From Poetry to Cultural Oasis
Entitled “From the Corner of Poetry to the Oasis of Culture,” this session will be moderated by Ismail Al Rifa’i, the head of the Arabic content and translation department at the foundation. The discussion will shed light on Dr. Eidabi’s extensive career, spanning decades of creativity, cultural planning, and his significant contributions to the development and establishment of various cultural institutions and projects.
A Journey Through Cultural Milestones
The session aims to revisit the enriching journey of Dr. Eidabi, highlighting key phases of his career—from poetry to theatre, journalism, and cultural programs. It promises to uncover many facets of his rich experiences and insights that connect with essential moments in cultural life. Dr. Eidabi’s legacy in Sharjah serves as a vital memory and offers a wealth of experience, making the emirate a haven for creators, dreamers, and intellectuals from all walks of life.
Dr. Yusuf Eidabi: A Cultural Influencer
Dr. Yusuf Eidabi is a prominent figure in the Arab cultural scene, celebrated as a poet, playwright, film critic, and academic. Since 2009, he has served as the cultural advisor at the Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies. He previously held the position of Dean at the Institute of Music and Theatre in Khartoum, as well as a university professor in Sudan, Romania, and the UAE.
Published Works and Recognition
Among Dr. Eidabi’s numerous publications are notable titles such as “Al-Wafi in the History of Theatre in Sudan” (Arab Theatre Authority, 2025), “The Folklore of the UAE” (Sharjah Institute for Heritage, 2014–2024), “Gulf Sound Art” (Sharjah Institute for Heritage, 2022), and “New Art in the UAE” (2018). Along his journey in the cultural realm, Dr. Eidabi has received various accolades, including the Honor Award at the Carthage Theatre Days (2024), recognition from the Damascus Theatre Festival (2010), the Cultural and Media Pioneers Award from the Tareem Omar Foundation in the UAE (2010), and the Key to the City of Sharjah from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi (2009).
Ismail Al Rifa’i: The Moderator
Ismail Al Rifa’i, the moderator of the session, is an artist and writer who delves into the inner world of human experience. He sees artistic creation as a reveal of the unknown, instead of merely mimicking the visible world. Al Rifa’i currently manages the Arabic content and translation department at the Sharjah Arts Foundation and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Damascus. His works have gained significant recognition both locally and internationally, and he has held several solo exhibitions while participating in various biennials and international events. Notable literary and critical works by Al Rifa’i include “A Promise on a Closed Lip” (2002), “Mud Stairways” (2006), “At the River Bend” (2021), “Narratives of Place” (2022), and “Carvings on the Wood of the Cross” (2025).