ALC’s ‘Kanz Al Jeel Award’ celebrates beauty of Nabati poetry

emirates7 - The Kanz Al Jeel Award, launched in 2021 by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), has quickly gained prominence as one of the leading literary awards. It has played a vital role in preserving the UAE’s rich cultural heritage and celebrating its diversity.

Over the past four years, Kanz Al Jeel has become a significant platform, attracting numerous applicants who see it as a unique chance to bring their creative ideas to life and present their work to a broader audience.

The Poetry Matching category, in particular, offers poets a dedicated space to engage with and honor the distinguished poetic legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, ensuring his lasting influence continues to inspire future generations.

Ali Obaid Al Hameli, author, media personality, and Chair of the Award’s Higher Committee, commented on the award’s impact, saying, “The Kanz Al Jeel Award has been instrumental in revitalizing Nabati poetry, allowing audiences to appreciate the deep meanings and noble values found in the poetry of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Younger generations benefit greatly from connecting with the poetic heritage in his works.”

Obaid bin Qadlan Al Mazrouei, winner of the Poetry Matching category in the award’s inaugural edition, said, “The award has made significant efforts to revive and preserve ‘Mujārāt’ (matching), one of the most important poetry forms that is currently at risk of disappearing. It has also helped promote Sheikh Zayed’s poetry to a wider audience, solidifying Kanz Al Jeel as one of the most prestigious literary awards in the UAE and the Arab world.”

Ali Al Sabaan, winner of the Poetry Matching category in the award’s second edition, added, “The Kanz Al Jeel Award sends a truly inspiring message through its concept, timing, and goals. It celebrates folk poetry and honors our national heritage.”

Recently, the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre closed submissions for the award’s fourth edition, reaffirming its dedication to discovering new creative works rooted in local traditions, celebrating cultural heritage, and strengthening younger generations’ sense of identity.