The 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair hosted an engaging panel discussion titled “From Recognition to Impact: How Arab Luminaries are Changing the World.” Key speakers included Dr. Ali bin Tamim, the head of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Center, along with Sahl Al-Hayyari, an award-winning architect recognized for his contributions in design and architecture, and the novelist Wacini Al-Araj, who received the award in the literature and arts category. The session was moderated by Saeed Al-Nazari, the Secretary-General of the Arab Luminaries Initiative, the largest Arab initiative dedicated to honoring distinguished minds and enhancing their impact both locally and globally.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim commenced the session with a welcoming speech, praising the initiative for reviving the value of Arab intellect amidst ongoing knowledge transformations. He emphasized the necessity of such initiatives in the Arab region, which promote a culture of achievement and support the presence of creative individuals on both Arab and international stages.
Saeed Al-Nazari discussed the importance and influence of the initiative, noting that the dialogue about Arab luminaries takes us back to past centuries when numerous Arab figures flourished in various fields of science and knowledge. However, he remarked that historical glory alone cannot shape the future, thus the award is designed to restore the region’s confidence in its intellect, celebrating its creators who have become genuine role models.
He added, “We used to wonder when we would win a Nobel Prize, but the more pertinent question is: why wait for the West to discover us? Today, we honor two individuals from our region who have shown that excellence begins within.” He then asked the winners to share pivotal moments in their lives. Wacini Al-Araj replied that his success in the preparatory stage during the 1960s was a turning point for him, transitioning from his small village to a big city, thus opening new horizons of knowledge and thought.
He recounted how his mother, after the martyrdom of his father, was dedicated to ensuring her children’s education, which instilled in him a sense of responsibility and loyalty. He added that the moment he was declared the winner of the Arab Luminaries Award while giving a university lecture was one of the highlights of his life, reflecting an official recognition of how a writer’s words resonate within people.
Conversely, Sahl Al-Hayyari shared a touching memory with his late father, recalling a day they paused at a simple tent in the heart of the desert. The unforgettable scene, marked by generous hospitality, a tent with a perforated roof, and the inspiring desert details, left a lasting impression. Years later, he incorporated this image into his design of a building featuring a similar perforated ceiling, affirming that inspiration arises not only from study but also from human experience. He stated that winning the Arab Luminaries Award was a pivotal moment in his career, sending a powerful message that excellence is not measured by location, but by the impact and meaning one contributes.