Page 92 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - APRIL 2025

4/18/25, 11:48 AM ALECSO Awards Arab Cultural Merit To Sharjah Ruler | Pakistan Point
contributed to elevating Arab culture on the global stage and preserving the Arabic language as
a vessel for thought and creativity.”

Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture, delivered a speech
in which he conveyed His Highness’s greetings and appreciation to ALECSO for its cultural
efforts and stated, “With Arab affection and brotherhood, I am honoured to convey
greetings from the Emirate of Sharjah, expressing my delight at this blessed gathering, which
reflects a continuation of pan-Arab cultural meetings driven by the sincere efforts of ALECSO.
This special occasion—honouring His Highness with the Arab Cultural Merit—is indeed dear
to all of us.”
He added, “His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah recognises the crucial role of culture in the
advancement of societies and the preservation of future generations. For over fifty years, he has
dedicated himself to building a vibrant cultural landscape in Sharjah, evidenced by the
establishment of theatres, specialised museums, cultural centres, and an expansive network of
public libraries – the oldest of which marks its centennial this year.”

He went on to say, "In parallel, His Highness initiated a wide array of cultural, artistic, and literary
festivals—spanning poetry, theatre, calligraphy, visual arts, and book fairs—alongside various
specialised cultural publications and magazines distributed across the Arab world." These efforts
have resulted in numerous literary and cultural awards, including awards specifically for youth,
such as the Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity – First Edition.”

Al Owais highlighted the importance His Highness places on the wider Arab region, saying, “The
Ruler of Sharjah’s commitment to the Arab cultural sphere is evident in the collaborative
partnerships forged across the region. These include the Arab Theatre Authority, which
revitalises Arab theatre through national festivals, and the flagship Arab Theatre Festival, which
is held annually in a different Arab country. His Highness also established Houses of Poetry in
several Arab nations, including Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, Tunisia, Morocco, and Mauritania—all of
which actively support Arab poetry through festivals and year-round events“.

Regarding His Highness’s care for the Arabic language, Al Owais said, “The Arabic language
has received utmost care from His Highness. The Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language
stands as a remarkable gift to the Arab and Islamic world — the result of a dedicated effort
completed in just seven years.”
The ceremony also featured a presentation highlighting key cultural milestones in the journey of
His Highness, showcasing some of his contributions and achievements in both the Arab and
international cultural arenas. It traced the beginnings of the Sharjah cultural project initiated by
His Highness, founded on his belief that culture is the essence of human development and
national advancement.

The audience also watched a documentary about ALECSO, which was established in 1970 as
one of the most prominent specialised organisations affiliated with the Arab League.
Headquartered in Tunis, the organisation’s mission is to unify Arab efforts, reinforce cultural
identities, preserve heritage, and promote scientific research.

In conjunction with the awarding ceremony, an exhibition of books authored by His Highness the
Ruler of Sharjah was held, featuring a selection of his historical works, theatrical writings, and
other literary contributions.

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