Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Head of the Department of Culture, stated that the festival is one of the prominent cultural programmes in Sharjah, as it has become an iconic platform for poets from all Arab countries. He also added His Highness's initiative to issue Al Hira magazine from Sharjah, which deals with "Nabati" poetry.
Al Owais highlighted that the festival honours Nabati poetry pioneers in every edition, which is what Sharjah has always been doing.
The 18th edition will host various diverse activities, including seven poetry nights, a poetry session, and an "Honored Pioneers" symposium. The festival will move to Al Dhaid and Kalba, where the participants and attendees will learn more about the two cities' cultural, heritage, and historical aspects.