The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation wrapped up its participation at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) with a poetry evening featuring poet Hassan Al Najjar. Following the poetry recital event, Al Najjar signed copies of his book “We Leave Our Shadows at the Doorstep” at the Foundation’s Stand on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

In the presence of a gathering of poetry enthusiasts and the Foundation’s friends, Al Najjar recited several poems from his collection, recently issued by Takween publishing house in Kuwait. This marks the fourth book released by Al Najjar over the course of his poetic journey, following his previous works: “On His Pillow Lies an Aura of Anxiety” (2017), “Soul Bath” (2011), and “Nostalgia of Mirrors” (2007). His latest collection, “We Leave Our Shadows at the Doorstep,” was longlisted for the Sheikh Zayed Book Award 2024.

Al Najjar autographed numerous copies of his book for visitors to the Foundation’s stand, many of whom eagerly snapped commemorative photos with him and with various cultural figures, who were also present at the Foundation’s stand.

During the one-week ADIBF, the Foundation organized a rich cultural programme featuring a number of its award winners whose books issued as part of its “Winners” series.  Among these books are “The Question of Ethics in the Modernity Project” by Dr. Ahmed Zayed, “War in the Land of Egypt” by novelist Yusuf Al Qa’id, and “Hamad Khalifa Bu Shehab: His Biography and Legacy” by Mohamed Nour El-Din.

The programme also featured poetry readings by poet Sawsan Dahneem, accompanied by the signing ceremony of her book “In the Interpretation of the Negation of Something”, and the signing of book “Nasheej Al Doduk” (The Duduk’s Whimper) by Jalal Barjs.