emirates7 - Saad Al Bawardi, the renowned Saudi writer and poet, passed away on Sunday in Riyadh at the age of 95, leaving a profound legacy in literature, journalism, and cultural thought. Widely regarded as a major figure in Saudi Arabia’s literary scene, Al Bawardi enriched the Arabic literary world with over 50 works, including prose, poetry, and intellectual essays. His influence reached across multiple generations of readers and writers both within Saudi Arabia and throughout the Arab world.
The literary and journalistic communities in Saudi Arabia mourn his loss, remembering him not just as a prolific writer, but as a dedicated cultural thinker whose voice resonated in the pages of local newspapers. Al Bawardi was particularly known for his long-standing column, "A Rest Stop Inside the Sanctuary of Thought," in Al Jazirah newspaper, where he offered reflections on society, culture, and the human experience.
Born in 1930 in Shaqra, Al Bawardi’s early life was shaped by hardship after the death of his father. He worked in various humble jobs, including as a scales attendant and spare parts seller, before discovering his passion for journalism and literature. His career in writing began in 1955 when he launched Al Ishaa magazine in Al Khobar, one of the first literary and social publications in Saudi Arabia.
Al Bawardi also played a pivotal role in shaping the country's cultural policies and educational landscape. He held several prominent positions in government, including in the Ministries of Education and Higher Education, and served as a cultural attaché in Beirut and Cairo. He also held the roles of Director of Public Relations and Secretary of the Supreme Council for Education, Science, and Arts.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to Saudi culture, Al Bawardi was awarded the King Abdulaziz Medal of the First Class at the Janadriyah Festival in 2014. His death marks the end of an era, but his works and influence will continue to inspire future generations of Arab writers and intellectuals.
The literary and journalistic communities in Saudi Arabia mourn his loss, remembering him not just as a prolific writer, but as a dedicated cultural thinker whose voice resonated in the pages of local newspapers. Al Bawardi was particularly known for his long-standing column, "A Rest Stop Inside the Sanctuary of Thought," in Al Jazirah newspaper, where he offered reflections on society, culture, and the human experience.
Born in 1930 in Shaqra, Al Bawardi’s early life was shaped by hardship after the death of his father. He worked in various humble jobs, including as a scales attendant and spare parts seller, before discovering his passion for journalism and literature. His career in writing began in 1955 when he launched Al Ishaa magazine in Al Khobar, one of the first literary and social publications in Saudi Arabia.
Al Bawardi also played a pivotal role in shaping the country's cultural policies and educational landscape. He held several prominent positions in government, including in the Ministries of Education and Higher Education, and served as a cultural attaché in Beirut and Cairo. He also held the roles of Director of Public Relations and Secretary of the Supreme Council for Education, Science, and Arts.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to Saudi culture, Al Bawardi was awarded the King Abdulaziz Medal of the First Class at the Janadriyah Festival in 2014. His death marks the end of an era, but his works and influence will continue to inspire future generations of Arab writers and intellectuals.