The Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival 2026, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stands as a powerful celebration of the UAE’s rich literary heritage and its enduring commitment to cultural development. By placing both Nabati and Classical poetry at the heart of its programme, the festival reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision of preserving traditional art forms while encouraging creative expression across generations.
Nabati poetry, deeply rooted in Bedouin culture and oral tradition, occupies a central place in the festival, highlighting its role in documenting history, values, and social identity. Alongside it, Classical Arabic poetry represents the intellectual depth and linguistic beauty of Arab literary heritage. By presenting these two forms together, the festival creates a bridge between tradition and scholarship, allowing audiences to experience the full spectrum of Arabic poetic expression.
A key focus of the Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival 2026 is the promotion of Emirati talent. The event provides a prestigious platform for established poets and emerging voices to showcase their work before regional and international audiences. Through readings, competitions, and curated sessions, Emirati poets are encouraged to share their perspectives, strengthening national identity and cultural pride.
Youth engagement is another cornerstone of the festival. Dedicated programmes, workshops, and interactive sessions are designed to inspire young people to appreciate poetry not only as an art form but also as a means of self-expression and critical thinking. By nurturing interest among younger generations, the festival ensures that poetry remains a living, evolving tradition rather than a static cultural relic.
Beyond its literary focus, the festival reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading cultural hub in the Arab world. By hosting poets, scholars, and cultural figures from across the region, the event fosters dialogue, exchange, and mutual understanding. It aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader cultural strategy, which emphasizes creativity, heritage preservation, and global cultural leadership.
Ultimately, the Abu Dhabi Poetry Festival 2026 serves as more than a celebration of poetry. It is a reflection of the emirate’s commitment to cultural sustainability, artistic excellence, and youth empowerment. Through its inclusive and forward-looking approach, the festival strengthens Abu Dhabi’s role as a beacon of Arab culture, ensuring that poetry continues to inspire, educate, and unite communities for generations to come.
