The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority has officially closed registration for Season 12 of the Prince of Poets competition. The application window, which spanned from 7th July to 6th August 2026, saw a robust response from the global literary community, drawing more than 1,500 entries from male and female poets representing 38 different countries.
This extensive participation highlights a rich variety of poetic experiences and cultural perspectives. By bringing together diverse styles and creative approaches, the current season aims to discover new talent while contributing to the ongoing vitality and evolution of the Arab poetry scene. The high volume of submissions underscores the enduring appeal of the competition as a premier platform for literary expression.
With the registration phase concluded, the competition now enters its second stage. During this period, the expert judging panel will conduct a rigorous evaluation of all submissions to select a longlist of 150 poets. These selected individuals will be invited to Abu Dhabi to meet the judging panel in person and recite their work, marking the competition’s transition from written submissions to live performances.
The programme reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving Arab cultural heritage, fostering cultural dialogue, and strengthening its role as a global centre for culture and creativity. Through initiatives like Prince of Poets, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority continues its mission to safeguard the Arabic language, promote poetry as a vital expression of Arab identity, and encourage younger generations to engage deeply with the rich traditions of their literary heritage.