8-year-old Omani claims poetry crown in UAE

Suhar – An eight-year-old Omani poet has won a regional children’s poetry title in Abu Dhabi, outperforming contestants from across the Arab world in a televised Nabati poetry competition.

Nasser bin Zayed Nasser al Bathari from Suhar was crowned winner of the ‘Million’s Poet for Children – Poets of the Future’ programme, organised by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Heritage and aired on Abu Dhabi TV.

The contest brought together 33 poets aged between seven and 12. The UAE fielded 15 contestants, the highest number, followed by Oman with nine participants. Bahrain, Kuwait and Yemen were represented by two children each, while Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Syria had one participant each.

Performances were evaluated by a panel of poets from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Judging criteria included accuracy of meter and rhyme, clarity of ideas, poetic imagery, delivery and stage presence, with consideration given to the age of the contestants.

Nasser developed an interest in Nabati poetry at a young age, attending poetry gatherings and memorising verses. His family encouraged his participation in cultural events, while his uncle trained him in poetic meters and recitation skills.

During the competition stages, Nasser advanced steadily, earning positive feedback from judges and audiences for his delivery and composure on stage.

Speaking after his win, Nasser thanked his family for their support and said the experience strengthened his interest in poetry and his determination to continue developing his talent. He dedicated his achievement to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and to Omani children striving to achieve their goals.

The result highlights the growing presence of young Omani talent in Gulf cultural forums and reflects increasing support for children’s literary and cultural development.