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World Poetry Day: Inspiring Emirati Poets to Acknowledge

  • Publish date: since 3 days
World Poetry Day: Inspiring Emirati Poets to Acknowledge

March 21st is World Poetry Day, a day to celebrate the beauty and power of words. This special occasion shines a spotlight on Emirati poets, whose verses capture the essence of the UAE’s rich culture and history. Emirati poets inspire with their creativity and passion, from timeless classics to modern expressions. 

Discover the Power of Words and Poetry of Emirati Poets 

Join us in exploring the world of Emirati poetry, where every word weaves a story of heritage, love, and the spirit of the nation. Let their words transport you into a realm where emotions run deep and every line leaves a lasting impact. 

  1. Habib Al Sayegh 

Habib Al Sayegh 

First, Habib al-Sayegh, born in Abu Dhabi, started his career in journalism at 15 and went on to become a renowned poet and translator. With a degree in Philosophy and Comparative Linguistics, he wrote classic Arabic poetry and prose, publishing numerous collections from 1980 onwards. His work, ranging from "Poems to Beirut" to "A Graph for Towers of Giraffes," earned him prestigious awards, including the Taryam Omran Award and Al Owais Cultural Award. A true pioneer in Emirati literature, al-Sayegh's words have left a lasting imprint on the cultural landscape. 

  1. Ousha Bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi  

Ousha Bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi  

Ousha (Fatat Al-Arab), born and raised in Al Ain and later relocated to Dubai, is one of the UAE's most prominent Nabati poets. Recognized at just 15 years old for her poetry recitals, she broke through a male-dominated poetry scene, influencing the development of Nabati poetry, particularly among young female poets. Her work, which draws on classical Arabic poets and local Nabati figures, covers themes of patriotism, love, wisdom, and nostalgia. In 1989, she was given the title Fatat Al Arab by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and her first poetry book was published in 1990. Ousha has been honored with numerous awards, including the Sharjah Festival of Classic Poetry and the Abu Dhabi Award. In 2011, an annual award for female Emirati poets was established in her name, and a section in the Dubai Women's Museum was dedicated to her. In 2022, Google celebrated her legacy with a special Doodle. 

  1. Shihab Ghanem  

Shihab Ghanem  

In addition, Shihab Ghanem, born in 1940 in Aden, is an Emirati poet and engineer. With degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Water Resources, and Industrial Development, he worked in key roles like Director of Engineering at DP World. Ghanem has authored 62 books, including poetry collections and translations. He’s been honored with awards such as the 2013 Tagore Peace Prize and the Rashid Prize for Scientific Excellence. Ghanem is a prominent figure in both engineering and literature, known for his contributions to peace and cultural understanding. He currently lives in Dubai with his family. 

  1. Nujoom Al Ghanem  

Nujoom Al Ghanem  

Al Ghanem, born in Dubai, is a renowned Emirati poet with a passion for mysticism, theology, philosophy, and poetry. She was inspired by Arabic poetry as a young girl and began her poetic journey, publishing eight collections, with Masaa Al-Janah (1989) marking her debut. Alghanem’s themes often explore longing, solitude, death, and human suffering. Influenced by poets like Mahmoud Darwish and Nizar Qabbani, she is an active member of the International Prize for Arabic Fiction and a regular at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. Alghanem has been honored with numerous awards, including the Pride of the UAE in 2019 and the L’Officiel Woman of the Year in 2010 for her contributions to literature. 

  1. Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum  

Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum  

Furthermore, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, also known as Fazza, is not just the Crown Prince of Dubai, but also a celebrated poet in the Arab world. Born on November 14, 1982, he writes poetry under the name Fazza, meaning "the one who helps." His poems often reflect his deep connection with his heritage, culture, and the world around him. Hamdan’s poetry is known for its rich imagery and emotional depth, often exploring themes of love, nature, and patriotism. His works have resonated with many, particularly in the UAE, and are cherished by both local and international audiences. In addition to his royal duties and equestrian achievements, Sheikh Hamdan has become an influential figure in the contemporary Arab poetry scene, using social media to share his verses with his millions of followers. His poetry continues to inspire and captivate, offering a window into his personal thoughts and emotions. 

  1. Khalid Al Budoor  

Khalid Al Budoor  

Khalid Albudoor, a renowned Arabic poet from Dubai, is a key figure in the UAE's modern poetry movement. Raised in Dubai, he studied mass communication at the United Arab Emirates University and earned a master's in screenwriting from Ohio University. Albudoor began publishing poetry in 1980, with his first collection "NIGHT" winning the Al-Khal Poetry Award in 1992. Beyond poetry, he has contributed significantly to preserving UAE's intangible cultural heritage, focusing on oral traditions, Nabati poetry, and traditional music. Albudoor is also a freelance researcher, writer, life coach, and cultural advisor at Hamdan Heritage Center in Dubai. 

  1. Adel Khozam 

Adel Khozam 

Last, but surely not least, Adel Khozam, an Emirati poet and columnist, has been a significant figure in the UAE press since the 1980s. With 14 poetry collections and 2 novels, Khozam's works have been translated into multiple languages. His most recent novel, Life Through the Third Eye, was translated into English. Apart from writing, he composed music for theater and television, earning multiple awards at the Shariah Festival of Child Theater. In 2022, Khozam received the Best International Poet Award for his anthology World Poetry Tree: An Anthology for Hope, Love, and Peace. He also contributed to various media committees, including the Dubai International Film Festival. His literary works include a range of poetry collections and studies on visual arts and theater in the UAE. 

World Poetry Day reminds us of poetry's profound impact on connecting cultures and preserving heritage. Emirati poets, through their powerful words, continue to shape the literary landscape and inspire future generations. From Habib Al Sayegh's timeless classics to Hamdan bin Mohammed's emotional verses, each poet highlights the rich cultural tapestry of the UAE. As we celebrate the beauty of language, we honor their contributions to poetry and the preservation of Emirati identity. 

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