Fatat Al-Arab: The Woman Who Breathed Arab Poetry

Digital Art: Ana S. Gad

Remembering Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi: 6 Years On

July 27, 2024, marks six years since the passing of the remarkable Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, affectionately known as Fatat Al-Arab (Girl of the Arabs). Born in Al Ain in 1920, Ousha's poetic legacy continues to resonate deeply within the UAE and the broader Arab world.

Ousha was born into a family that cherished literature and poetry, a passion that she embraced wholeheartedly from a young age. Her early encounters with poets and their works ignited a lifelong dedication to the art of poetry. By the age of 15, she had already made her mark in a field traditionally dominated by men, earning recognition for her talent and distinctive voice.

Influenced by classical poets such as Al Mutannabi, Abu Tammam, and Al Ma'ari, as well as local Nabati poets like Al Majidi bin Thahir and Rashid Al Khalawi, Ousha quickly developed a unique poetic style. Nabati poetry, often referred to as the "people's poetry," is a form of vernacular poetry deeply rooted in the oral traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. It captures the essence of everyday life, expressing personal and communal experiences in a language that is both accessible and evocative. Her poems, written in classical Arabic, spanned themes of love, wisdom, nostalgia, praise, and patriotism, vividly capturing the essence of Emirati landscapes and life.

Her rise to prominence earned her the nickname "Fatat Al Khaleej" (Girl of the Gulf), which later evolved to "Fatat Al Arab" (Girl of the Arabs), bestowed upon her by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This title reflected her significant impact on the cultural and literary heritage of the region.

Throughout her life, Ousha received numerous accolades. She was honored at the 11th Sharjah Festival of Classic Poetry in 2010 and received the prestigious Abu Dhabi Award. In recognition of her contributions, an annual award for female Emirati poets was established in her name, and a section of the Women's Museum in Dubai was dedicated to her legacy.

Her poetry has been immortalized in various publications, audio recordings, and collections, ensuring that her voice continues to inspire future generations. Her influence extended beyond her lifetime, enriching the Emirati literary landscape and empowering young female poets to find their own voices.

On this anniversary of her passing, we reflect on the enduring legacy of Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi. Her poetry remains a testament to her profound wisdom, creativity, and love for her homeland. As we remember her today, we celebrate the timeless beauty of her words and the indelible mark she left on the world of Arabic poetry.

“Our country lost a great symbol of literature, wisdom, and poetry... Fatat Al Arab has left behind treasures of literature and poetry which will continue to tell her biography and she will always be remembered.”

— HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum

“The UAE has lost a great literary figure who left a prominent mark in Nabati poetry. Her poems have enriched the Emirati memory with wisdom, knowledge, and creativity.”

— HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

One of the greatest Nabati poets of the 20th century came into spotlight when Google honored her with a dedicated Doodle. For this occasion Abu Dhabi artist Reem Al Mazrouei created a special Google Doodle, celebrating the life and work of the greatest Emirati poetess.

GOOGLE d

As we honor her memory, we acknowledge the profound impact Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi had on the cultural and literary heritage of the UAE. Her spirit lives on through her poetry, a beacon of inspiration for all who cherish the beauty of the written word.

Article: Ana S. Gad

Source: Ousha.ae