Dubai: The World Silk Road Forum has announced the selection of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime minister and Ruler of Dubai, as the 'Inspirational Literary Figure' for Silk Road Poets.
Sheikh Mohammed received this recognition for his visionary leadership that transformed Dubai into a vibrant cultural hub bridging East and West, inspired by the ancient Silk Road and infused with a modern Emirati spirit.
The festival, to be held at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library for its award ceremony on May 27, will feature around 50 poets, artists, and painters who will explore Dubai’s cultural and tourist landmarks.
The event will receive extensive media coverage from 20 Chinese press agencies, including the People's Daily.
Sheikh Mohammed is celebrated not only as a leader but also as a distinguished Nabati poet whose works deeply reflect human, national, and intellectual themes
His notable poetry collections include "Zayed" (2018), honoring the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, "Flashes of Verse" (2014), and "40 Poems from the Desert" (2011), alongside "For the Love of Horses," which highlights his passion for equestrian heritage.
Professor Wang Fangwen, Chair of the Poetry Committee at the World Silk Road Forum, emphasized the symbolic and cultural significance of choosing Dubai and Sheikh Mohammed for this honor.
She highlighted Dubai’s role as a modern revival of the Silk Road spirit through its dynamic economy and cultural exchange, driven by Sheikh Mohammed’s civilizational vision.
Wang also noted that Sheikh Mohammed’s poetry is featured on the cover of the World Poets magazine, which includes an in-depth study and Chinese translations of his work.
Poet Cao Shui, Vice Chair of the Forum’s International Poetry Committee, announced that Emirati poet Adel Khozam will co-chair the festival.
Khozam is recognized as a leading poetic figure in the UAE and Gulf region, known for his Great Poetry Medal from China and initiatives like the Tree of World Poetry project.
The festival will host competitions for prestigious awards such as the Golden Camel and Silver Camel, with nominees from across the globe, including several Emirati poets featured in a special section of World Poets magazine.
The World Silk Road Forum, an independent organization registered in the United States and recognized by the Chinese Consulate in New York, promotes global cultural cooperation through events and partnerships with international bodies like the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and UNESCO.
Its seasonal Silk Road Spring Poetry events have previously been held in Madrid, Moscow, and China, with Dubai now joining as the fifth host city, reinforcing its growing stature as a center for cultural dialogue and artistic exchange.
