Dubai House of Poetry set for launch

Dubai, February 11, 2009

The Dubai House of Poetry (DHP) will be formally opened in parallel to the launch of the Dubai International Poetry Festival in March.

The DHP, located in the Al Shindagha area, is expected to be a significant centre for poetic activities including a series of poetry recitals as well as literary exhibitions and cultural activities, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRAMF) has announced.

Overlooking Dubai Creek, the DHP will feature a library, an exhibition hall, and offices for the administrative staff. It will also stock audio, video and printed archives of well-known poetic works.

“The DHP will provide the right ambience for contemplation and intellectual debate in a traditional setting,” said Yasser Hareb, acting CEO, MBRAMF. “The objective of such a centre is to encourage academic research of classical and contemporary Arabic poetry that will reflect the leading role poetry has always played in the Arabic region.

“During the Dubai International Poetry Festival, the DHP will host several recitation sessions as well as other literary performances, portraying its status as an incubation centre for nurturing literary talent. Following the conclusion of the festival’s inaugural event in March, the DHP will continue to host events and symposia as well as exhibitions round the year as a centre of excellence for Arabic verse and the literary arts.”

Themed ‘A Thousand Poets, One Language’, the Dubai International Poetry Festival will be held from March 4 to 11 at the Madinat Jumeirah as well as the DHP and Dubai World Trade Centre. -TradeArabia News Service

Tags: Dubai | Foundation | House of Poetry |