SME – By Mohammed Al Joker
The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, which organized a major celebration to mark “Emirati Writer’s Day” a few days ago, marked a historic literary event. The event featured the participation of 100 Emirati writers, both men and women, as part of its commitment to promoting Emirati culture and supporting local creatives, who have contributed to establishing the UAE as a leading cultural center in the region. The wonderful occasion, which included a group of influential and documented speakers, and amidst a large cultural and media presence, the brand of sports emerged as one of the most prominent shining signs in our cultural and media sports history. We found sports alongside culture, and it was even the most in demand, which reminds us of the period of the establishment of clubs in the early seventies with the establishment of the state through its cultural committees, which were distinguished by principles and values and established the concept of culture among our youth. They would practice their hobbies in the stadiums, and during breaks, the club halls were full of vitality and activity from cultural, musical and literary works. Today, we find that culture has disappeared and has not returned, with the exception of two or three clubs. Focus and “spending” went to the crazy “football” that ate the green and dry. There is no longer a culture, although our clubs have been called “sports and culture” since their establishment. Al Owais’ celebration blends sports memory and national football history, bringing back to us unforgettable stations, most notably the Gulf Cup championships, which have always been part of the conscience of the people of the Emirates and the Gulf in general… since its beginnings, pausing at moments Victory and defeat, stories of stadiums and fans, and the stars who have etched their names in football history.
The cultural occasion represents a rich dimension. This event was organized by the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, as part of its vision to support Emirati creators, as emphasized by the Foundation’s Secretary-General. The presence of a constellation of the finest Emirati intellectuals is a remarkable cultural phenomenon, reflecting the UAE’s thriving cultural landscape. The participating writers, who have contributed to documenting our literary, cultural, social, sporting, and media history, add a rich dimension to such a cultural event.
The event with the Emirati writer is a celebration of ourselves, our memories, and those who have carried the word with love and belonging. It was not merely a book launch, but a moment of recognition and gratitude for the country’s history and culture, shaped by the joyful public, the media, and the writers.
As we have come to expect from this elite cultured nation, God is behind every intention.
