Session explores contribution of Emirati poets and authors

As part of the Cultural Programme of Al Ain Book Festival 2024, organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) in Al Ain hosted a panel discussion titled “Emirati Writers,” which was attended by a group of students who explored the contributions of Emirati authors and poets towards enriching the local literary scene.

Dr Noura Khalil, a Faculty Member in the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at the university, and the session moderator, asserted the importance of encouraging young people to read and take an interest in local literary production.

Meanwhile, UAEU student Mohammed Al Alawi spoke about Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, highlighting his role in developing the culture and knowledge sector in the UAE, as well as his various contributions, from establishing “Huroof Arabiya” magazine and the Cultural and Scientific Symposium, through his role as former Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), to his current position at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation.

Moreover, Al Alawi highlighted some of Al Murr’s writings, known for their linguistic simplicity and close connection to the community, such as “A Place in the Heart” and “People’s Words.”

For her part, Dhabiya Al Ketbi, also a student, gave a presentation on the poet Rabie Bin Yaqut, explaining that his poems addressed important social issues, such as the high cost of living and cultural shifts, while also celebrating the UAE’s heritage through his poems about the desert, the sea, and love for the homeland. Al Ketbi recited some selected verses that were admired by the audience.

Concluding the session, student and writer Sarah Al Shanqiti highlighted her writing experience, stressing the impact of her studies in Arabic Language and Literature on her literary style. She touched upon her first book “Crossing Through Hearts,” a collection of short stories centred around characters who lose something precious, and through their search for it, find wisdom.

The session closed with a dynamic dialogue between the speakers and the audience, who praised the festival, and this kind of event in general, for the role they play in strengthening young generations’ connection to Emirati literary production and engages them in efforts to preserve cultural identity.

Meanwhile, the book festival has seen a remarkable turnout from children eager to explore educational books and inspiring stories, reflecting the growing passion for knowledge and reading among younger generations.

In the vibrant halls of the festival, children roam between the booths of various publishers decorated with appealing colours and featuring books with stunning illustrations, allowing young visitors to carefully select stories that spark their imagination and educational books that open new doors for discovery.

The children exhibited an interest in classic stories that narrate the adventures of legendary heroes, as well as interactive books that blend learning with play, while books on topics such as technology and the environment recorded a spike in interest from older children.

Young visitors at the festival expressed their love for stories that take them to imaginative worlds, allowing them to learn valuable lessons in courage and friendship.

They also shared their preference for interactive books that combine education and entertainment, particularly those that explore topics related to nature and space.

Bassem Salim from Scroll Education Books, and a participant in Al Ain Book Festival, asserted that the significant turnout of children purchasing books “reflects a growing awareness among families.”

“We have prepared a special collection of educational books and illustrated stories suitable for all ages, and we have received a warm welcome from both children and their parents,” he added.

For his part, Fouad Ali from Dar Al Qalam noted that books combining education and entertainment are highly popular among children. “Throughout our participation at Al Ain Book Festival, we made sure to offer content that sparks children’s curiosity and motivates them to discover their world through stories centred around scientific and environmental adventures,” he explained.

WAM