The Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival kicks off today under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This cultural event highlights its significance in enhancing cultural identity and Arabic poetry through a variety of activities that will continue until February 11. The festival reflects the capital’s commitment to supporting the arts and literature, bringing together poets and creators with the public in a celebration that blends tradition and innovation.
Diverse Activities Throughout the Festival
The Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival spans a week and includes a range of cultural events, such as seminars and discussion sessions. The first day of the festival features various sessions, including “Our Blessing,” dedicated to senior citizens, and the seminar “Poetic Transformations in Gulf Music,” which showcases pioneering literary experiences. Interactive sessions will also be held for students from Mohammed bin Zayed University of Humanities to present their research projects, highlighting the importance of research and creativity in the literary field.
Highlighting Poetry’s Role in Society
The dialogue about poetry’s role in society is a central theme during the festival, with intellectual sessions addressing diverse topics such as “Why Do We Read Poetry Today?” and “The Role of Poetry in Documenting Events.” Through the participation of researchers and specialists, the cultural and social impacts of poetry are illuminated. The program is complemented by poetry evenings that bring together poets of both classical and Nabati poetry, along with traditional Emirati performance arts.
Celebrating Popular Poetry and Modernity
The second edition of the Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival continues its strategy to enhance the status of poetry in Emirati culture. To nurture new talents, a “Young Poet Corner” has been established to teach children the arts of poetry and Arabic calligraphy. Specialized seminars will also address the future of Arabic poetry, focusing on the relationship between poetry and media in light of contemporary changes.
Conclusion and Continuity of the Cultural Experience
The Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival concludes with a poetry evening that brings together participants, in addition to offering a daily cultural podcast documenting all events. Through these activities, the festival reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to enhancing the role of poetry in society, affirming its position as an Arab cultural hub that bridges heritage and modernity.