Sharjah, with its profound appreciation for literature and the spoken word, offers a rich tapestry of opportunities for poetry enthusiasts to immerse themselves in captivating readings, fostering a vibrant scene for both traditional and contemporary verse.
Sharjah House of Poetry: The Heartbeat of Arabic Verse
The Sharjah House of Poetry, affiliated with the Sharjah Department of Culture, is undoubtedly the leading venue for poetry readings in the emirate, serving as a dedicated haven for poets and lovers of verse. This esteemed institution consistently organizes poetry evenings, cultural festivals, intellectual seminars, and specialized workshops aimed at nurturing poetic talents. For instance, the House recently organized a poetry evening in mid-June 2025 featuring prominent poets like Dr. Abdullah Abu Shamais, Shaima Hassan, and Zakaria Mustafa, drawing a large and engaged audience of critics and poetry lovers.
The House of Poetry is deeply committed to supporting Arabic poetry by providing a conducive environment for creativity and interaction among poets. They also play a crucial role in publishing the works of poets and offering access to specialized libraries. Its exceptional programs and services have earned it numerous accolades, making it a pivotal institution for fostering cultural and literary expression in Sharjah and the wider Arab world. If you’re looking for consistent, high-quality poetry readings, this is your prime destination.
Sharjah Arab Poetry Festival: An Annual Poetic Extravaganza
The Sharjah Arab Poetry Festival, established in 1997 and held annually at the beginning of each year (the most recent edition ran from January 8th to January 12th, 2025), is a major highlight on Sharjah’s cultural calendar. Organized by the Sharjah Department of Culture, this festival is a grand celebration of Arabic poetry, hosting poets from the UAE and various Arab countries.
During the festival, numerous poetry evenings and critical sessions are held across different venues, providing a diverse program of recitations and discussions. It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear renowned poets perform their works, engage with literary critics, and experience the richness and diversity of contemporary Arabic verse. The festival embodies Sharjah’s long-standing dedication to nurturing poetic talent and preserving the legacy of Arabic poetry.
Sharjah International Book Fair: A Literary Feast with Poetic Flair
The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), one of the world’s largest and most significant book fairs, is an absolute treasure trove for literature lovers, and it consistently features a strong program of poetry readings. Held annually in November (the next edition is scheduled for November 6th to November 17th, 2025 at the Sharjah Expo Centre), SIBF blurs the boundaries between art forms, offering immersive “Poetry Nights” and various sessions that redefine how poetry is experienced.
SIBF invites renowned local, regional, and international poets to perform, often accompanied by music or other artistic elements. For example, the 2024 edition featured a diverse lineup, including an evening of English poetry with Canadian poet Rupi Kaur and celebrations of Punjabi and Filipino poetry. Beyond these dedicated poetry events, the fair itself is a vibrant space where authors, publishers, and literary figures gather, creating numerous opportunities for impromptu discussions and discovering new poetic voices.
House of Wisdom: Modern Space for Literary Events
The House of Wisdom, Sharjah’s contemporary cultural landmark, serves as a dynamic hub for various literary and cultural events, and poetry readings occasionally feature in its diverse programming. While primarily a futuristic library and learning center, it aims to be a space where ideas are created and exchanged, including literary expression.
The House of Wisdom hosts book launches, author discussions, and cultural workshops that sometimes involve poetic elements or discussions on literature. Although it might not have as frequent dedicated poetry readings as the House of Poetry, its commitment to fostering a love for literature and learning makes it a welcoming environment for poetic exploration. We recommend checking their “Happening Now” section on their official website, or the Sharjah Events platform, for upcoming literary and poetry-related events.
Sharjah Art Foundation: Poetic Intersections in Contemporary Art
The Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF), a leading institution for contemporary art, often explores the intersection of different art forms, including poetry. While not a primary venue for traditional poetry readings, SAF’s programming occasionally features artist talks, film screenings, or performance art pieces that incorporate poetic testimony, spoken word, or lyrical elements. For example, SAF recently held a three-day course called “Poetic Testimony” (which took place around mid-February 2025), exploring how poetic methods relate to embodied experiences and critical discussions.
SAF’s commitment to diverse artistic expressions means that you might find innovative approaches to poetry integrated into their exhibitions or public programs. These are often unique opportunities to experience poetry in a new context, sometimes challenging traditional notions of performance and presentation. Keep an eye on their “What’s On” and “Free Learning” sections for such cross-disciplinary events.
Community and Cultural Centers: Local Initiatives
Beyond the major institutions, various smaller community centers and cultural initiatives across Sharjah might also organize occasional poetry readings or open mic nights, especially within specific cultural or linguistic communities. While these might be less formally advertised, they represent a grassroots effort to foster a love for poetry. Local academic institutions, such as the University of Sharjah or the American University of Sharjah, might also host poetry events or literary discussions for their students and the wider public. Exploring community bulletin boards, local social media groups, or cultural associations can sometimes reveal these more intimate gatherings.
Sharjah’s Enduring Poetic Legacy
Sharjah’s deep respect for poetry, particularly Arabic verse, is evident in the numerous platforms it provides for poets to share their voices and for audiences to engage with this timeless art form. From dedicated houses of poetry to grand international festivals, the emirate ensures that the rhythmic beauty and profound meaning of poetry continue to resonate within its cultural landscape.
Discovering Your Next Poetic Experience
To find the most current and comprehensive information on poetry readings and literary events in Sharjah, we strongly recommend regularly checking the official Sharjah Events website. Additionally, directly explore the websites of the Sharjah House of Poetry (often through the Sharjah Department of Culture website), and keep a close eye on the schedules of the Sharjah International Book Fair (sibf.com), the House of Wisdom (houseofwisdom.ae), and the Sharjah Art Foundation (sharjahart.org). The www.few.ae team encourages you to immerse yourself in the eloquent world of poetry that flourishes in Sharjah!
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