World Poetry Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate an art form that pushes linguistic boundaries—all while serving as a potent instrument for social commentary, raising awareness of social issues, and promoting change. Today, we spotlight these GCC-based poets who are shaping the literary landscape with their sharp yet distinctive voices. From weaving significant narratives in eloquent forms to creating intangible art with inspiring phrases, these spoken word artists are positively influencing the fabric of society.
Dr. Afra Atiq, an Emirati poet, finds her sweet spot in exploring identity politics and multiculturalism. Her academic prowess is evident in her published research on literature and reading habits in the UAE. Afra’s commitment to championing literary expression is demonstrated by her regular appearances at schools and universities. Through her carefully crafted verses, she uses the platform to break down the complexities of her multicultural heritage.
Instagram: afraatiq
"Poetry is the essence of language. As a child, it allowed me to put words to emotions I didn't yet understand. Writing poems required searching through dictionaries, books, conversations, obsessions, and deep respect for my language teachers — Urdu and English. Poetry opened doors to curiosity and genuine attentiveness to my own emotions and the world around me". Says Namal Siddiqui.
Born and raised in the UAE, Namal Siddiqui is a third-culture kid with Pakistani roots. After a decade in advertising and tech, she pursued a Master's in Creative Writing from Birmingham City University—a move that led to her pivot into poetry. Her work draws attention to themes like identity, decolonisation, and nature in a seamless manner. Currently working on her first poetry book, Namal’s unique talent lies in bridging multicultural experiences. Siddiqui curates cultural events at Emirates Literature Foundation, and is currently preparing a poetry collection for a publication. Siddiqui was selected by Dubai Culture to represent UAE as a poet at the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival 2024.
Instagram: namalsiddiqui
With a degree in Arabic Literature from Sharjah University, Amal Al Sahlawi is known for her fluidity in interspersing classical and modern Arabic traditions through poetry. Holding space for women’s issues and addressing other philosophical questions through her work, Amal’s poetry can be perceived as a form of catharsis. The art of taking deeply personal reflections and turning them into resonant verses that address broader societal concerns makes her work uniquely individualistic.
Instagram: amal_alsahlawi
Shamma Al Bastaki is an Emirati artist who combines poetry with visual art. Her award-winning body of work has found a global audience. Shamma’s noteworthy poems, “The Sparrows are Waiting” and “Veto on the Feminine Noon,” have been featured in the Harvard Graduate Review—an accolade earned by very few. For Shamma, the seamless juxtaposition of two multidisciplinary mediums takes flight through her keen observation of human experience, spirituality, and philosophy.
Instagram: shammakab
