Outstanding Poet Of Al Dhafra Initiative Launched By Mohamed Bin Zayed University For Humanities

Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities has launched the first Outstanding Poet of Al Dhafra initiative, a programme for young poets. It seeks to identify new Arabic poetry talent, strengthen knowledge of classical forms, and deepen young people’s attachment to Emirati cultural identity and Arabic language heritage.

The initiative culminates in a public competition, where participants present original poems before a live audience. A specialist judging panel evaluates each performance using clear literary and artistic standards, including language accuracy, stylistic refinement, respect for classical poetic structures, and strength of oral delivery.

Before the Outstanding Poet of Al Dhafra competition, participants follow a structured training phase. The programme combines classroom teaching with creative practice in writing, recitation and expressive skills. This approach supports artistic growth, boosts confidence in public performance, and encourages greater pride in Arabic poetry traditions.

Teaching for the Outstanding Poet of Al Dhafra takes place at the university’s Al Dhafra campus. An integrated curriculum is delivered by faculty members who specialise in Arabic literature and poetic studies. Learners aged 9 to 16 explore classical Arabic poetry, including prosody, metre, rhetorical tools and established composition traditions.

The Outstanding Poet of Al Dhafra initiative highlights the university’s focus on protecting national identity. It uses cultural and community engagement programmes that link traditional literary arts with modern learning methods. The scheme offers a supportive space where young poets engage creatively with their linguistic and cultural roots.

Recognised winners of the Outstanding Poet of Al Dhafra initiative receive honours at a formal ceremony hosted by the university. The programme supports Arabic poetry as an active cultural practice and aligns with the university’s wider mission to advance humanities education and promote cultural knowledge across the UAE and internationally.

With inputs from WAM