Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) is pleased to unveil the cultural programme of its Riwaq Al AdabWalKitab initiative at the 32nd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. Taking place from 22 to 28 May 2023 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), this year’s programme titled ‘Poems Do Not Die’ pays homage to the esteemed Emirati poet Habib Al Sayegh through the launch of 14 literary publications, engaging panel discussions, an educational workshop, and exclusive book signings featuring over 30 prominent writers and intellectuals from the UAE and the Arab world.
The engaging programme presents a diverse range of activities that celebrate the legacy of Habib Al Sayegh and promote the richness of Arabic literature. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with renowned authors, explore critical readings, and delve into the world of poetry through discussions and workshops. With the support of publishing houses Nabati, Al Dhabi, and Emirates Writers Union, this programme promises to be an enlightening and enriching experience for all participants.
Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, Founder and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, said:“We are pleased to partner with leading publishing houses Nabati, Al Dhabi and the Emirates Writers Union to present the talent and achievements of Emirati and Arab writers at the 32nd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. Now in its eighth year, our Riwaq al AdabWal Kitab initiative nurtures creativity through its support of local writers and poets, advancing AMDAF’s commitment to cultivating the literary landscape of the UAE and preserving the Arabic language and cultural identity. In addition to launching 14 new publications by rising and established writers, the return of our enlightening cultural programme celebrating this year the life of the late renowned Emirati poet Habib Al Sayegh reflects our mission to engage the community in thoughtful dialogue by providing a platform for knowledge exchange and critical thinking”.
The book signings will take place at the ADMAF Booth and Emirates Writers Union Booth, featuring established and emerging authors and poets presenting their latest works. These signings provide an excellent opportunity for literature enthusiasts to connect with their favorite writers and acquire signed copies of their books. Some notable book signings include:
- “Critical Readings on the Poetic Experience of Habib Al-Sayegh” (Arabic) with poet Abdallah Al Sabab, Dr. Youssef Hetteeni, and Emirati Poet Nasser Al Zaabi on Friday, 26 May from 6pm to 7pm at the ADMAF Booth.
- Four Arabic publications by Nabati Publishing, featuring Abdallah Al Sabab, Dr. Suroor Al Kaabi, Ateej Al Qubaisi, and Sheikha Al Jaberi on Friday, 26 May from 7pm to 8pm at the ADMAF Booth.
- Five Arabic publications by Al Dhabi Publishing, with Dr. Aisha Al Ghais, Mrs. Aisha Al Zaabi, and Mrs. Fatima Binamr on Saturday, 27 May from 6:15pm to 7:15pm at the ADMAF Booth.
- Emirates Writers Union Book Signing featuring various authors such as Samira Ali Al Shehhi, Lulwa Al Mansouri, Dr. Qusai Fayez Eid, and Huda Kamal Mahmoud at the Emirates Writers Union Booth on different dates and times.
In addition to the book signings, ADMAF will host two engaging panel discussions that shed light on the future of Arab poetry and the extraordinary accomplishments of Habib Al Sayegh. These discussions are a platform for intellectual discourse and celebration of the literary heritage. The panel discussions include:
- ADMAF Talk: The Future of Arab Poetry (Arabic) Date: Thursday, 25 May Time: 5:15pm-6pm Venue: Bursa Stage Speakers: Dr. Amani Fouad, Dr. Mariam Al Hashimi, Dr. Youssef Eid Moderator: Sameh Kaawach
- ADMAF Talk: The Poetry of Habib Al Sayegh (Arabic) Date: Friday, 26 May Time: 5pm-5:45pm Venues: Anmat Al Hayat Stage, Lifestyle Corner Stage Speakers: Emirati Poet Abdallah Al Sabab and Dr. Youssef Hetteeni Moderator: Emirati Poet Nasser Al Zaabi
Furthermore, ADMAF is organizing a special workshop titled “The Fundamentals of Creative Writing” conducted in Arabic. This workshop aims to introduce participants to the essential principles and characteristics of literature and creative expressions. Through the study of linguistic, visual, and creative techniques, attendees will gain insights into producing various literary works, including short stories, novels, and poetry. Presented by Sameh Kaawach and Ahmad Al Asam the workshop will emphasize the significance of Arabic language development and creative writing.
Workshop Details:
- Date: Thursday, 25 May
- Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm
- Venue: ADMAF Booth
ADMAF’s Riwaq Al AdabWal Kitab initiative at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair provides a unique platform for literary enthusiasts, scholars, and artists to come together and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the UAE and the Arab world. The programme showcases the importance of literature, poetry, and critical discourse, while honoring the profound contributions of Habib Al Sayegh.
