Deadline Approaches For Registration In The 12th Season Of Million’s Poet On May 15

The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority has announced that the registration deadline for the 12th season of Million’s Poet is set for 15 May. Interested participants can register through the official website, www.millionspoet.ae. This popular television programme seeks to celebrate Nabati poetry, a significant part of Arab cultural heritage.

To participate, applicants must be between 18 and 45 years old. They need to submit a classical Nabati poem with metered verse and rhyme, containing between 10 and 18 lines. Only typed submissions will be accepted; handwritten entries are not allowed. Detailed application guidelines are available on the programme's website.

Million’s Poet stands as the largest Nabati poetry competition in the Arab world. It plays a crucial role in promoting Abu Dhabi's cultural vision by reviving Nabati poetry's prominence in Arab heritage. The show reflects authentic Arab identity, values, and regional dialects, making it widely popular across the region.

After registration closes, a jury will evaluate submissions based on strict literary and artistic criteria. Shortlisted poets will be invited for in-person interviews as part of the selection process for live televised rounds at Al Raha Beach Theatre in Abu Dhabi. A total of 48 poets will compete for the prestigious Poetry Banner (Bayraq Al-Shi‘r) and substantial prizes.

The competition offers impressive rewards to its top six finalists, with prizes exceeding AED15 million. The winner receives the title of Million’s Poet, along with the Poetry Banner and AED5 million in cash. These incentives highlight the programme's commitment to recognising poetic talent.

Since its inception in 2006, Million’s Poet has become a major platform for discovering and nurturing poetic talents across the Arab world. Over its 11 seasons spanning 19 years, it has helped many poets rise to prominence within the region's poetry scene.

This programme has significantly contributed to reviving Arab literary heritage by embedding Nabati poetry into the collective cultural memory of Arabs. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, fostering a deeper appreciation for traditional poetic forms among audiences.

With inputs from WAM