The year 2024 saw numerous prominent cultural events organised by the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, which successfully achieved its goals of spreading diverse culture and knowledge, while contributing to the fostering of a distinctive cultural dynamism that engaged various segments of society.

The Foundation achieved resounding success in organising over 40 events throughout the year, spanning arts, literature, and music. These events attracted a diverse audience, including both enthusiasts and the intellectual elite, who are considered key partners in enriching the Emirati cultural scene, both domestically and internationally.

However, the most prominent milestone was UNESCO’s designation of 2025 as the year to celebrate the centenary of the birth of poet Sultan Al Owais. In reaction, the Foundation allocated a special budget for this occasion. Coinciding with the event, the Sultan Al Owais Cultural Award value was increased from $120,000 to $150,000, bringing the total prize pool to $750,000, starting from the 19th edition.

Seminar about Book “Sheikha Al Nakhi: A Woman Who Shapes the Dream

The year’s cultural calendar began with a seminar about the Foundation’s release of the book “Sheikha Al Nakhi- A Woman Who Shapes the Dream”, authored by renowned Emirati writer and poet Salha Ghabish. During the event, the author. In the presence of the book’s protagonist, Sheikha Al Nakhi, the writer shared her journey in the realm of culture and her career, which inspired many Emirati women who made inspirational achievements, particularly in the fields of culture and literature. The seminar was followed by a book signing ceremony.

The award ceremony of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation-18th edition (2022-2023)

In its dazzling celebration of creative authors and intellectuals in the Arab world and its consistent support for the Arab cultural movement, the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation organised the awards ceremony for the 18th edition (2022-2023). This prestigious award, named after its founder, the late poet Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais, honours creative individuals who have made valuable contributions across various literary and intellectual fields. The ceremony was accompanied by a series of intellectual programs and seminars for the honourees, in partnership with cultural institutions in the UAE.

These events include:

The winners of the 18th edition of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Award are: Egyptian poet Hassan Talab, Bahraini storyteller and novelist Amin Saleh, Iraqi critic Dr.Abdullah Ibrahim, and Moroccan thinker and translator Abdul Salam Benabdelali. 

Monday & Tuesday-March 4-5, 2025

“Technology and Culture of Tomorrow Forum”

The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation organised the “Technology and Culture of Tomorrow Forum” at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai, bringing together an elite group of intellectuals, authors and decision makers. During the two-day event, the participating speakers focused on the cultural transformations driven by technology, their impact on ethical and creative concepts, and how to address these challenges in the future. 

This is particularly relevant as artificial intelligence has permeated every aspect of daily life, influencing even the smallest details with noticeable effects on society. The forum concluded with significant recommendations, following the presentation of research papers on ‘artificial intelligence, cultural simulation, and cybersecurity’ to a group of thinkers and researchers. These papers led to recommendations aimed at achieving a balance between technological development, cultural and social sustainability, and highlighting the importance of technological innovation for growth in all human and cultural aspects.    

In its dedication to celebrating culture makers and figures of enlightenment in the UAE, the Foundation hosted writer Abdul Ghaffar Hussain in a panel discussion entitled “Trade and Traders in Dubai – A Historical View Over Half a Century”, moderated by journalist Ali Obaid Al Hameli. During the session, Hussain discussed Dubai’s globally successful experience, which has placed it among leading global hubs of economic prosperity. Abdul Ghaffar Hussian highlighted national figures, companies and institutions that have contributed to Dubai’s growth from the founding of the UAE to the present day, transforming it into one of the most important global hubs for economy and development.

The book signing ceremony for “Witness to the Era of Zayed” by Abdul Ghaffar Hussain. The book highlights various aspects of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s personality. The session was moderated by writer Jamal Al Shehi.

 Cultural Programme associating Abu Dhabi Book Fair

As part of its continued role in supporting the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation participated in the ADIBF 2024 with a dynamic cultural programme covering various literary and intellectual fields, targeting broad segments of the public. The Foundation hosted an elite plethora of creative Arab individuals and thinkers, providing an important platform for fostering communication between the public and the creative community. Activities included seminars, lectures, book signing ceremonies, and dialogue sessions, as follows:

            Celebration of the “Emirati Writer’s Day”

As part of its most prominent cultural programmes and in celebration of the ‘Emirati Writer’s Day,’ observed on May 26 each year, the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation took the lead in revealing the treasures of its creative writers by organising an event that enriched cultural life and its landscape. 

A total of 27 writers participated, contributing their intellectual and humanitarian works, elevating minds, and reinforcing the position of Emirati writers in community development. The event brought together the audience and writers under the roof of the Al Owais Cultural Foundation building for the largest signing ceremony of their publications. 

The special book signing event highlighted national values and served as a living testament to the prosperity of the cultural movement in the UAE, while emphasising the role of the Emirati writer in shaping national identity. The event was marked by lively interactions between the audience and writers, offering a valuable opportunity to meet Emirati authors, discuss their works and access signed copies. The books spanned various literary genres and catered to a wide range of tastes.

A music concert “Authentic Melodies” by the Spirit of Music Ensemble, led by Maestro Walid Shaban

Music remains one of the most powerful ways to bring the world together, expressing both originality and sophistication. The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation organised a memorable concert on its stage, one that will remain etched in the minds of the audience. The event offered an opportunity to experience the essence of authentic Arab music, with the “Spirit of Music” ensemble presenting a unique musical experience that transported the audience to a world of sensation and beauty. 

The concert featured a series of grand and magical musical moments, with lyrical pieces that blended the musical traditions of Egypt, the Levant, Qudud and the Arabian Peninsula. The performance was brought to life by a group of melodious voices—Sarah Darwish, Muhammad Abdul Azim, and Rahma Walid—and was masterfully led by violinist and composer Walid Shaban.

Theatrical performance “Arqoub Dates”, written and directed by artist Omar Ghobash  

The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation organised a theatrical performance titled “Arqoub Dates” at the stage of Deira Cultural Centre. The play, a monodrama and theatrical biography about the life of poet Mubarak Al Oqili, is written and directed by artist Omar Ghobash and produced by the Deira Cultural Centre in Dubai.

The play was previously showcased at the Kuwait International Monodrama Festival and presented at the Stuttgart International Theatre Festival in Germany.

In strengthening the integration of cultural institutions in the cultural landscape in the UAE, the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, in collaboration with the Ajman Tourism Development Department, hosted a signing ceremony for the book “Hamad Khalifa Abu Shehab… His Biography and Impact,” authored by Mohammed Abdullah Nooruddin, at Rashid Al Khader Museum.

Lecture and Musical Performance: “Sudanese Music… Unity in Diversity”

To explore the rich world of Sudanese music, the Al Owais Cultural Foundation hosted a special cultural evening titled “Sudanese Music… Unity in Diversity.” The event began with a lecture by critic Musab Al-Sawy, moderated by Dr. Rashid Bakhit, followed by live musical performances. The musicians and singers showcased the unique and diverse richness of Sudanese music, which reflects the country’s cultural variety. The harmony between rhythm, melodies, and the performance of its ancient heritage created a beautiful fusion of folklore and urban music, all set against the backdrop of a highly engaged audience.

Special Art Exhibition: “Coloured Hearts… Fingers with a Feather of Hope”

In line with the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation’s commitment to its holistic vision of the visual arts and its dedication to supporting creative people from all backgrounds, the Foundation organised a special art exhibition titled “Coloured Hearts… Fingers with a Feather of Hope” at its gallery. 

The exhibition, held in cooperation with the “Read and Enjoy” Centre featured over 118 paintings created by students with determination from the seven emirates, along with their able-bodied peers. The exhibition was overseen by Ms. Kawthar Sabri, an artist and pioneer in volunteer work, who provided invaluable guidance to the young artists. It reflected the spirit of challenge and determination of the participants, showcasing their unique experiences and creative visions. The exhibition also highlighted the Al Owais Cultural Foundation’s commitment to fostering community collaboration and supporting this important segment of society, which possesses remarkable capabilities and talents deserving of significant recognition and encouragement. 

A Retrospective exhibition by Abdul Rahim Salem  

In celebration and recognition of the pioneers of visual art in the UAE, the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Foundation organised a retrospective exhibition featuring dozens of remarkable paintings by veteran visual artist and sculptor Abdul Rahim Salem, one of the pioneers of contemporary art in the UAE. Abdul Rahim Salem received numerous honours and awards throughout his career, and his works are held in various museum collections and collected by many prominent figures interested in acquiring fine art. Alongside the exhibition, the Foundation released the book “Legends of Abstraction” by writer Abeer Younis.

Sharjah International Book Fair/ Seminar “Emirati Novel from Inception Until Today”

The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation made its remarkable annual contribution to the intellectual programme held alongside the Sharjah International Book Fair, a unique cultural event that strengthens collaboration between state institutions while reaffirming their commitment to fostering intellectual and creative dialogue. The Foundation’s participation also underscores the importance of promoting cultural and knowledge exchange between intellectuals and the audience of the Sharjah International Book Fair.

The Al Owais Cultural Foundation hosted a symposium titled “The Emirati Novel: From Inception to Today”, featuring distinguished panellists such as Dr. Shukri Al Mabkhout, Dr.Saleh Huwaidi, writer Reem Al Kamali, and storyteller Salha Obaid Hassan. The session was moderated by Islam Abu Shakir.

• Sunday, November 24 and Monday, November 25, 2024:

Retrospective Poetry Forum: From First Fathers to the New Millennium

In cooperation with Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation/Amman

The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation places great emphasis on fostering collaboration with prominent Arab institutions, including the Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation. As part of its efforts, the Foundation organised the “Retrospective Poetry Forum: From First Fathers to the New Millennium” over two days at the Shoman Foundation building in Amman.

The event gathered a distinguished group of Arab critics, poets, and writers who presented insightful research papers exploring the current state and prospects for the future of Arabic poetry.

The forum also shed light on poetry in the new millennium, examining its modernity within the context of earlier poetic concepts and the legacy passed down by successive poetic generations. The discussions featured contributions from distinguished scholars and critics, including Dr. Charbel Dagher, Dr. Musleh Al Najjar, Dr. Ali Jaafar Al Alaq, Dr. Ziad Al Zu’bi, Dr. Fatima Qandil, Dr. Mubarak Al Jabri, Dr. Habib Bouhrour, Dr. Imad Al Dmour, Dr. Jamal Maqbala, Dr. Sultan Al Amimi, Dr. Saeed Yaqtin, Dr. Nasser Shabana, Dr. Abdul Wasa’a Al Humairi, Sobhi Hadidi, Dr. Hayel Al Talib, and Dr.Mohammed Obaidullah.

Additionally, two poetry evenings were held, featuring a diverse group of poets, including Ghassan Zaqtan, Ibrahim Mohammed Ibrahim, Hussein Darwish, Sawsan Dahneem, Saad Eddin Shaheen, Maha Attoum, Salha Yaqoub, Omar AlSaray, Hassan Najmi, Mohammed Al Ghamdi, Ibrahim Al-Hashemi, and Wafaa Jaabour.

Press Conference to Announce the Activities Celebrating Sultan Al Owais’s Centenary

The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation has unveiled its programme to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Emirati poet Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais (1925–2025). The announcement was made during a press conference held by the Foundation’s Secretary-General, Abdul Hamid Ahmed, at the Dar Sultan building on the Foundation’s premises. The event was attended by Dr.Mohammed Al Mutawa and Dr. Fatima Al Sayegh, both members of the Board of Trustees, along with Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Foundation.

The Foundation has launched a culturally rich programme to celebrate the centenary of Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais. This initiative follows UNESCO’s designation of 2025 as the year to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of the esteemed Emirati poet Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais and to honour his remarkable literary legacy.

To mark this special occasion, the Foundation’s Secretary-General announced an increase in the value of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Award to Dh150,000 for each category, starting with its 19th edition. This raises the total prize amount to $750,000, distributed across the following categories: Poetry; Short Story, Novel, and Play; Literary Studies and Criticism; Humanities and Future Studies; and the Cultural and Scientific Achievement Award.

        Music concert “Sung Poems”

In celebration of World Arabic Language Day, observed annually on December 18, the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation hosted a concert titled “Sung Poems” that was performed by the Rahala Music Ensemble. The performance showcased the talents of young artists Hala Trad, Rand Naddaf, Laith Atassi, and Ali Al Sheikh, accompanied by an outstanding ensemble of musicians. Together, they delivered a captivating musical experience that beautifully merged classic Arabic poetry with exceptional artistry.

The young musicians brought the world of Arabic poetry to life, paying homage to legendary poets whose timeless verses were transformed by iconic singers into unforgettable melodies. The concert featured beloved classics such as “Aghadan Alqak” (Will I Meet You Tomorrow) and “HathehiLailaty” (This Is My Night) by Umm Kulthum, “Zahrat Al Mada’en” and “Aatini al-Nay wa-Ghanni” (Give Me the Flute and Sing) by Fairuz, and “Ya Jarat Al Wadi” (The Neighbour of the Valley) and “Madanak” by Mohammed Abdel Wahab.

The programme also included Andalusian Muwashahat and other cherished melodies, offering a performance imbued with charm, sentiment, and the enduring beauty of Arabic music.