Renowned Emirati poet Rashid Sharar honoured in a ceremony held in Dubai

Renowned Nabati poet Rashid Sharar is not only a towering literary figure but also a cultural architect whose influence has spanned generations.

Revered as one of the UAE’s most eloquent voices, Rashid Sharar has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting traditional Bedouin poetry—locally known as Nabati—while mentoring emerging talents and shaping the literary scene across the GCC.

Rashid Sharar, was honored in a special ceremony held at the Majlis Omar Mohamed Zubair Al Marzooqi in the Al Warqaa 3 area of Dubai.

The event was organized by members of the Majlis Al Zubair as a gesture of appreciation for his outstanding contributions to modern and contemporary Arabic literature and poetry.

The tribute recognized Rashid Sharar’s lifelong dedication to enriching the Emirati and Arab literary scene through his unique poetic voice and his role in preserving and evolving Arabic poetic traditions. The gathering brought together literary figures, cultural leaders, and admirers of his work, all celebrating his legacy and the lasting impact he has made on Arabic poetry.

Appointed by an Emiri decree from His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Rashid Al Sharar founded and led the Sharjah Center for Popular Poetry, which he operated for eleven years.

Under his leadership, the center became a hub for nurturing poetic talent and safeguarding the region’s oral traditions. Today, it continues that legacy under the name Al Hira Literary Council, still echoing with the voice and vision Al Sharar instilled.

For nearly four decades, Rashid Al Sharar has been a prominent producer and presenter of cultural and poetry programs across various platforms, bringing the beauty of verse to homes across the Gulf.

His impact extended into print media as well, where he served as editor of literary and poetry sections in several newspapers and magazines, including his most recent role at Kul Al Usra magazine.

His contributions have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has been awarded numerous medals and honors, a testament to his role in enriching Arab culture. Among the most prestigious was an award bestowed upon him by the late Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, recognizing his lifelong dedication to literature and cultural preservation.

Beyond the written and spoken word, Rashid Al Sharar’s lyrical genius has reached millions through songs performed by major Arab artists. Voices like Mohammed Abdo, Mohammed Omar, Mehad Hamad, and Aydah Al Menhali have brought his poetry to the musical stage, blending heritage with melody in a way that continues to captivate listeners across generations.

Today, Rashid Al Sharar remains a symbol of literary excellence and cultural depth in the UAE. Through poetry, music, mentorship, and media, his work stands as a living bridge between the past’s enduring values and the future’s unfolding promise.