Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation is poised to host its 19th Session. This notable event will pay tribute to the exceptional contributions of poets and critics who have been honoured with the Foundation’s distinguished awards, reaffirming its unwavering dedication to celebrating the richness of Arabic poetry and its remarkable figures. This Session carries particular significance as it bears the name of the late poet Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, a tribute to his enduring poetic and cultural legacy—a gesture that imbues the occasion with profound emotional and human resonance.

The 19th Session will officially commence with an opening ceremony on Sunday morning at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre. Spanning three days, from the evening of Sunday, 15 December, to the evening of Tuesday, 17 December, the session will feature a comprehensive programme hosted at the Albabtain Central Library for Arabic Poetry. The agenda includes five literary panels, beginning with “Abdulaziz Albabtain: Perspectives and Testimonies”, followed by four additional panels in which renowned scholars will present eight in-depth studies delving into the poetic and cultural legacy of Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, the esteemed figure being honoured at this event. Furthermore, the session will include three poetry evenings, showcasing recitations by 27 distinguished poets. The Foundation has extended invitations to a distinguished assembly of writers, critics, intellectuals, and cultural luminaries from across the Arab world, promising a vibrant and intellectually enriching experience for all attendees.

Saud Abdulaziz Albabtain, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation, expressed:

“The 19th Session holds extraordinary significance, as it is conducted under the gracious and esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, whose steadfast support for culture and intellectual pursuits exemplifies wise leadership. This session is further distinguished by its venue in Kuwait, a nation long celebrated as a beacon of Arab culture and a prolific source of literary excellence. Moreover, the decision to inaugurate the session on 15 December carries profound symbolism, marking the anniversary of my late father’s passing, the poet Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, may he rest in peace. On this meaningful occasion, we reaffirm our Foundation’s commitment to preserving and advancing his enduring cultural and poetic legacy.”

In his statement, Albabtain recalled:

“My father was a poet who regarded words not only as a responsibility but also as a powerful force. In this session, we are dedicated to continuing his legacy, ensuring that his human touch remains an integral part of the reralm of Arabic poetry.”

Albabtain also emphasised that this session will offer a diverse array of programmes celebrating poetic creativity, alongside activities that will highlight the poetic and human legacy of the late poet Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, as well as his pivotal role in promoting cultural and humanitarian values.

The 19th Session will feature a diverse range of events, including:

• Poetry Seminars that will delve into his works and their significant impact on the cultural landscape.

• Discussion Panels examining his intellectual vision and his pivotal role in promoting humanitarian values through poetry.

• Poetry Evenings showcasing a distinguished selection of prominent Arab poets.