SPL celebrates 100 years with literary heritage exhibition

The exhibition honours the pioneering literary paths of Ahmad Amin Al Madani, Habib Al Sayegh, Maryam Jumaa Faraj, Ahmad Rashid Thani, and Salem Al Hattawi. Through the display of their early publications and personal stories, visitors are introduced to the figures who laid the groundwork for modern Emirati literature. By showcasing their achievements, the exhibition seeks to inspire future generations to draw on these literary giants as role models in their own creative journeys.

In an interactive touch, the exhibition invites visitors to write their own messages about reading on a vintage typewriter, offering a personal connection to the literary journey. A mini cultural café further enhances the experience, offering a space for reflection and fostering a lively literary atmosphere.

Literati who shaped Sharjah’s cultural scene

Eman Bushulaibi, Director of Sharjah Public Libraries, shared her thoughts on the exhibition: “The UAE has long been home to prominent literary and intellectual figures who have played an integral role in shaping the cultural landscape and establishing the foundation of a knowledge-based society. Their contributions have paralleled the growth and academic evolution of SPL, serving as inspirations for future generations and launching platforms for literary and intellectual exploration that stand as a source of national pride today.”

She continued: “Shining a spotlight on these figures and celebrating their journeys is both a tribute to their legacy and a call to action for the next generation. This exhibition serves as an invitation to carry forward a sustainable knowledge project rooted in our rich cultural heritage and to help shape a future that honours and builds upon these enduring contributions.”

The literary pioneers featured in the exhibition

Ahmad Amin Al Madani: A literary pioneer and cultural figure
Ahmad Amin Al Madani was a groundbreaking poet whose work seamlessly blended intellectual thought with literary expression. A broadcaster, librarian, and philosopher, his contributions to Andalusian literature and Nabati poetry, along with his poetry collections “Harvest of the Years” and "Sails and Waves," left a lasting cultural imprint across the UAE and the wider Arab world.

Habib Al Sayegh: A pillar of contemporary Emirati poetry and journalism
Habib Al Sayegh was an esteemed poet and journalist whose literary and cultural influence reached across the Arab world. As the Secretary-General of the Arab Writers Union and a founding member of the Emirates Writers Union, he was pivotal in shaping the literary landscape. His collections, such as Poems on the Sea of the Sea and A Graph of Giraffe Flocks, have been translated into multiple languages, and his impactful media presence, notably through his daily column in Al Khaleej newspaper, further solidified his role as a literary leader.

Maryam Jumaa Faraj: A leading female voice in Emirati storytelling
Maryam Jumaa Faraj was a prominent short story writer and cultural researcher whose work highlighted important aspects of Emirati society, particularly the experiences of expatriate workers and the evolving social fabric of the UAE. Through her collections The Turquoise and Water, she captured the essence of Emirati identity, while preserving an important female perspective in modern Emirati literature.

Ahmad Rashid Thani: Preserving heritage through poetry and folklore
Ahmad Rashid Thani was a poet and folklorist whose work played a key role in preserving the UAE’s oral heritage. Known for his prose poetry and blending traditional narratives with modern literary forms, his collections The Pebble of Patience and The Candle is Blood remain integral to the documentation and celebration of the nation’s folk traditions.

Salem Al Hattawi: Championing Emirati stories on stage and screen
Salem Al Hattawi is a celebrated figure in Emirati theatre and television, known for his impactful scripts that delve into the social issues faced by the UAE’s society. His works, such as Bint Al Shammar and The Shroud, have resonated deeply with audiences, and he has earned accolades like the Best Script award at the Sharjah Theatre Days Festival for his compelling portrayal of social issues.