Entertainment

The second edition of the Arabian Days festival, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, concluded on December 16, 2024, leaving a lasting impression on attendees with its vibrant celebration of Arabic language, literature, and culture. Over three days, the festival brought together thought leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and the wider public to explore the enduring vitality of the Arabic language through literary activities, performances, and discussions.

The event featured 20 distinguished speakers, five enriching panel discussions, and daily workshops, all of which delved into themes such as the relationship between Arabic language and artificial intelligence, storytelling, and cultural heritage.

Highlights of the Festival

1. Opening Ceremony:
The festival was inaugurated with a speech by H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, in the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak and H.E. Dr. Ali bin Tamim.

2. Panel Discussions:
Topics ranged from AI’s role in shaping the future of Arabic creativity to cultural preservation and enrichment through technology. Experts from fields including linguistics, AI, and creative arts shared insights on leveraging modern technology to safeguard Arabic culture.

3. Workshops and Cultural Activities:
The festival offered dynamic workshops, including mobile journalism, Arabic calligraphy, storytelling, and artistic performances. Children participated in interactive activities such as henna art, sand bottle creation, and Arabic design on textiles.

4. Musical and Theatrical Performances:
Six captivating musical performances showcased the region’s artistic talent, including acts by Faia Younan, Aziz Maraka, Marwan Khoury, and Hamza Namira. Theatrical highlights included Aladdin's Magical Journey to Discover Happiness.

5. AI and Culture Integration:
Sessions such as AI in Music: Catalyst for Creativity or Threat to Authenticity? and Generative AI: Reimagining Storytelling and Creativity examined AI's impact on cultural production.

6. Celebrating Arab Luminaries:
The festival honored historical and modern figures who shaped Arab culture, such as Ibn al-Muqaffa, Zaha Hadid, Nagib Mahfouz, and Fatima al-Fihria.

Comments from Organisers

H.E. Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, emphasized the festival’s role in promoting the Arabic language’s global significance:
"This festival celebrates the beauty and influence of the Arabic language, which serves as a bridge connecting past and present, tradition and innovation. By combining AI and culture, we are creating pathways to preserve our linguistic heritage in a rapidly evolving world."

Partner Contributions

The festival was supported by prominent institutions, including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, CNN Arabic, Anghami, Zayed University, and international embassies. Collaborations with entities like Berklee Abu Dhabi, MBZUAI, and Abu Dhabi Gaming and Esports amplified the event’s diverse offerings.

The Arabian Days festival set a new standard in celebrating and preserving the Arabic language and culture, highlighting its relevance in a digital age while fostering creativity and collaboration.

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