Immerse yourself in a variety of enriching experiences, from art exhibitions to a series of captivating and immersive events.
Icons of the Arab World
This special event highlights influential Arab figures, both historical and contemporary, showcasing their remarkable achievements and their impact on the world.
Featured historical figures include: Abdullah Ibn Al-Muqaffa: A pioneering writer of the early Islamic era (d. c. 139 AH/756 CE), Sibawayh: The founding scholar of Arabic grammar (d. c. 180 AH/796 CE), Jabir Ibn Hayyan: Known as the father of chemistry (d. c. 200 AH/815 CE), Fatima Al-Fihriya: The visionary woman who established the world’s oldest university (d. c. 266 AH/878 CE).
Notable contemporary Arab figures include: Lotfia Al-Nadi: The first Arab woman to fly solo (1907–2002 CE), Michael DeBakey: A Lebanese-American doctor, inventor, and globally renowned heart surgeon (1908–2008 CE).
The Arabic Language and the World
This interactive event delves into the rich history and evolution of the Arabic language across the ages.
Beginning with an exploration of the language’s origins and ancient inscriptions, the event highlights significant milestones, including the impact of divine revelation and the Quran’s pivotal role in shaping the language. It also traces the development of Arabic through key stages, from the introduction of diacritics and vowel marks to the compilation of Kitab Al-Ain, the first comprehensive Arabic dictionary. The narrative also explores Arabic’s expansion beyond the Arabian Peninsula via trade, pilgrimage, and cultural exchange, illustrating how Arab sciences and arts influenced the wider world.
The final segment focuses on Arabic today, covering: Countries where Arabic is an official language, the global population of Arabic speakers, the extensive vocabulary of the Arabic language, the wealth of Arabic manuscripts housed in international libraries, with opportunities to view and explore texts over a thousand years old.
Kanz Al Jeel
As the Arabian Days Festival begins, attendees will have the opportunity to explore an inspiring exhibition featuring the winning artworks and creations from previous editions of the Kanz Al Jeel Award. The showcase includes Nabati poetry, folkloric studies, and research by talented creatives who have celebrated the richness of authentic cultural heritage.
Kanz Al Jeel was established by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre to honor excellence in Nabati poetry and its cultural significance. Named after one of Sheikh Zayed’s iconic poems, the award bridges creativity, intellect, and critique, creating a vibrant movement inspired by Sheikh Zayed’s poetic legacy and paving the way for new artistic innovation.
The Kanz Al Jeel Award highlights Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s lasting influence on poetry and artistic creativity. It serves as a platform for works that embrace the timeless aesthetic and cultural value of his poetry, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire and resonate with future generations.