The second edition of the Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival, titled “بركتنا” لكبار المواطنين, has officially launched today, organized by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. Running until February 11 at the ADNEC venue, this cultural event convenes poets, artists, and the public to celebrate Arabic poetry as a vital part of cultural identity.
The festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, reflects the vibrant cultural scene in the city. It aligns with the 2026 Family Year initiatives, showcasing poetry’s role in enhancing societal values and fostering connections among generations. The second edition builds on the success of its inaugural event, which attracted over 1,000 poets and 15,000 attendees, establishing itself as a cultural hub for poetry enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds.
Engaging Sessions and Discussions
The first day of the festival features a series of seminars and discussions centered around poetry’s presence in society. Notably, the “بركتنا” لكبار المواطنين session, organized by the Family Development Foundation, aims to encourage participation from senior citizens. Other discussions include “Poetic Transformations in Gulf Music,” featuring scholars and experts in folk literature, along with research presentations from graduate students at Mohammed bin Zayed University of Humanities.
A Rich Evening of Poetry
Evening sessions will dive into topics such as “Why Do We Read Poetry Today?” and “The Role of Poetry in Documenting Events,” led by various researchers and specialists. Poetry evenings will serve as a focal point, with a lineup of poets reciting both Nabati and classical Arabic poetry. The opening day will also highlight Emirati performing arts, showcasing traditional forms like rababah, shalla, mankous, and other folk arts.
Continuing the Cultural Journey
On its second day, the festival will offer a diverse array of cultural and informative programs, including a session on folk storytelling, a dialogue titled “Millionaire Poet Between Season One and Twelve,” which will evaluate the program’s impact on the Arab poetry landscape, and a seminar on popular media and Nabati poetry. The day’s activities will also include a special poetry morning for individuals with determination.
Celebrating Heritage and Modernity
The Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival honors Nabati poetry as a crucial element of Emirati and Gulf culture while also providing a platform for classical poetry. The festival embodies a vision that merges tradition with innovation, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s commitment to supporting Arabic poetry and preserving cultural heritage. The second edition symbolizes the ongoing cultural project that Abu Dhabi champions, establishing the emirate as a vibrant cultural center that harmonizes tradition and modernity.
For those interested in the vibrant realm of poetry and cultural heritage, the upcoming events offer a wonderful opportunity to experience this unique festival. Words are a bridge connecting people and history.