Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, has announced the extension of the nomination period for the fifth edition of the “Kanz Al-Jeel” Award until July 31, 2026. This decision is intended to allow more creative individuals the opportunity to participate in the award, which has been instrumental in promoting creativity, supporting cultural initiatives, and celebrating achievements in popular literature and Nabati poetry since its inception in 2021.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, interested participants can choose their appropriate category and complete the nomination form available on the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s website. For the current cycle, applicants are required to submit electronic copies of their nominated works in PDF format, along with a curriculum vitae, academic and creative profile, a copy of their passport, and a personal photograph. Inquiries regarding the application process can be directed via email.
The award has specific criteria for participation, including the requirement for nominees to have actively contributed to the poetic movement on both local and Arab levels. The nominated works should contribute significantly to human culture and knowledge, characterized by originality, creativity, and innovation. While submissions are generally required to be in Arabic, the “Translation” and “Studies and Research” categories accept entries in other languages. Each nominee can submit only one work in a single category per cycle, and the same work cannot be submitted to another award in the same year.
The award comprises six categories, including Poetic Imitation, which involves crafting verses inspired by a poem from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. For this cycle, the poem “Ya Dhi’dhagh Al-Habaib” has been selected. The “Poetry Publications” category focuses on authentic Nabati poetry collections, while the Translation and Arts categories honor translations of Sheikh Zayed’s poetry into a living language and artistic works that creatively interpret his poetry. The “Studies and Research” category recognizes systematic research on Nabati poetry, and the “Creative Personality” category is awarded to individuals who have significantly contributed to the revival and promotion of Nabati poetry and its role in Arab culture.