His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad’s esteemed patronage set the stage for a grand celebration as Kuwait inaugurated “Kuwait, Capital of Arab Culture and Media.”

Furthermore, Minister of Information, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, and Chairman of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, officially launched the festivities at the Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center.

The evening’s highlight, “The Earth’s Ocean” was a breathtaking national epic that fused dazzling visuals with powerful storytelling, bringing to life Kuwait’s rich history, vibrant present and promising future in a mesmerizing theatrical spectacle.

The opening ceremony also featured a special tribute to the esteemed Saudi thinker Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghadami, the honoree of the 30th Al-Qurain Cultural Festival. Additionally, the event celebrated excellence by honoring the recipients of the State’s Appreciation and Encouragement Awards.

The event drew a distinguished audience from across Kuwait and the Arab world, including Arab Ministers of Information, Culture, and Tourism, as well as prominent intellectuals, writers, artists, and media professionals. Also in attendance were representatives from artistic, cultural, and media organizations, alongside members of the diplomatic corps.

In his opening speech, Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi expressed his pride and gratitude, stating that he was pleased and honored to be among them today, representing His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and preserve him, who places great importance on culture and media. His Highness firmly believes in their vital role in shaping society, strengthening national identity, and promoting the values of openness and progress.

Al-Mutairi added that today as the conclusion of the 30th session of the Qurain Cultural Festival is celebrated, it has become a distinguished cultural event that is a prominent platform for creativity and a shining beacon in the Arab cultural scene. Kuwait has always been a hub for thought and culture, steadfast in its support for creators and intellectuals.

This event coincides with the launch of Kuwait’s designation as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025, reflecting Kuwait’s pioneering role, rich cultural journey, and unwavering contributions to the arts, culture, and media. It underscores Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening Arab culture, fostering dialogue between nations, and cementing culture as a vital pillar of communication and understanding.

Al-Mutairi extended his deepest gratitude to the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization and the Council of Arab Information Ministers for selecting Kuwait for this prestigious title and for their steadfast support of culture and media in all its forms. He reaffirmed Kuwait’s dedication to enriching the cultural and media landscape, fostering intellectual growth, expanding knowledge, and creating an environment that nurtures creativity and innovation.

Moreover, Al-Mutairi continued that since its independence, the State of Kuwait has embraced a comprehensive cultural vision that has positioned it at the forefront of nations supporting thought and creativity.

Through numerous initiatives, Kuwait has played a vital role in shaping the awareness of Arab generations and strengthening cultural identity. Its unwavering efforts have transformed it into a beacon of knowledge, fostering innovation and providing a thriving environment for cultural and intellectual production, solidifying its status as a leading Arab cultural hub.

Al-Mutairi stated that the State of Kuwait has proven that culture is a driving force for development and progress, as investing in it means investing in people and the future, ensuring the continuation of intellectual renaissance and cultural prosperity.

Importantly, Al-Mutairi further emphasized At the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters; that Kuwait reaffirms its commitment in supporting thought and creativity while fostering cultural exchange between nations. Through a diverse array of events—including art exhibitions, intellectual seminars, theatrical and musical performances, and heritage activities—Kuwait celebrates its rich history and national identity while embracing global cultures. This commitment strengthens Kuwait’s role as a hub for dialogue, convergence, and creative intellectual expression.

“Creativity at its finest” Al-Mutairi emphasized that when antiquity meets modernity, true creativity emerges, perfectly embodied in the epic theatrical performance “The Earth’s Ocean”, marking the launch of Kuwait’s journey as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025. This production is a fully immersive artistic experience that reflects Kuwait’s cultural identity and reinforces its distinguished position in the Arab cultural landscape. It masterfully blends modern arts and cutting-edge technologies to deliver a dynamic and inspiring creative vision.

Al-Mutairi continued that Kuwait has always been a beacon of dialogue and openness, and today it continues its cultural journey with a renewed commitment to the arts as a powerful tool for expression and progress. Carrying the banner of creativity toward new horizons, Kuwait firmly believes in culture’s role in building bridges between nations, fostering peace, and strengthening our shared human identity. This vision not only enriches intellectual thought but also propels cultural development into the future.

Al-Mutairi concluded, that today, Kuwait honors the distinguished literary critic Dr. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Ghadami, the celebrated personality of this year’s Al-Qurain Cultural Festival, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to literary criticism and contemporary thought that have enriched the Arab cultural scene. Kuwait also takes pride in celebrating the winners of the State’s Appreciation and Encouragement Awards—an honor well deserved by those who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and cultural excellence.

“Appreciation Awards”

As the Director-General of the Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization, Mohamed Ould Amar, presented the official shield of “Kuwait, Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025” to Minister of Information and Culture Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, the evening’s honoring ceremony commenced.

The celebration first paid tribute to the esteemed Saudi thinker Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghadami, the distinguished personality of this year’s Al-Qurain Cultural Festival. Minister Al-Mutairi then took the stage to honor the recipients of the 2024 State Appreciation Awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions to culture, arts, and intellectual excellence.

The ceremony began with the honoring of Dr. Moudi Al-Hamoud, who received the State Appreciation Award for her outstanding contributions to social services. Acclaimed artist Khaled Al-Obaid was also recognized for his pioneering role in Kuwait’s artistic and theatrical movement, while the distinguished artist Sanaa Al-Kharaz was honored for her efforts in cultural services and preserving the national memory.

“Incentive Awards”

The Minister of Information also honored the winners of the 2024 State Encouragement Awards. Artist Zahraa Jassim received the Fine and Applied Arts Award (Drawing) for her artwork “Compete with White or Retreat with Black”, while artist Hussein Al-Haddad was recognized in the field of television acting for his role in the series “Pencil”.

Additionally, poet Mohammed Sarkouh won the Poetry Award for his collection “The Poet Who Lives in Mirrors”, while Hamoud Al-Shaiji received the Novel Award for “The Temptation of Forgiveness”.

Basma Al-Wazzan was honored in the field of children’s literature for “Dawood the Artist” and “My Story with Reading”. Dr. Abbas Al-Haddad received the award for linguistic, literary, and critical studies for his work “Poet Ali Al-Sabti – Complete Poetic Works”, and Nader Al-Azmi was recognized in the field of social and human sciences, history, and archaeology for his book “Transoxiana”.

The opening show then commenced with the stirring melody of “Kuwait, the Land of Pure Hearts”, performed by the renowned artist Nabil Shuail as part of “Nabd Al-Kuwait”, accompanied by a vibrant ensemble of performers and showmen. From the very first notes, the atmosphere was electrified as Shuail delivered the song with heartfelt enthusiasm. Written by Saher and composed by Abdullah Al-Qaoud, the performance set the stage for an unforgettable evening.

“Earth’s Circumference”

Meanwhile, the theatrical spectacle “The Ocean of the Earth” delivered a powerful civilizational message, bringing historical events to life through an innovative artistic vision. Blending theater, music, and advanced technical effects, the performance seamlessly transported the audience through time, each scene preserving the essence of its era while offering a glimpse into the future.

The show also presented a captivating theatrical tribute to one of Kuwait’s most esteemed figures, the late astronomer Dr. Saleh Al-Ajairi, celebrating his legacy as a national icon and a guiding scientific light for the world.

Adding to the grandeur of the evening, a stellar lineup of musical talents took the stage, led by the legendary “Pulse of Kuwait”, artist Nabil Shuail. The performance featured an ensemble of renowned singers from Kuwait, the Gulf, and the Arab world, including Dr. Hamad Al-Manea, Hamoud Al-Khidr, Diana Karazon, Shahad Al-Amiri, Abdulaziz Al-Misbah, Sultan Al-Muftah, and Munther Al-Hayoud from Oman, all coming together to deliver an unforgettable artistic experience.

The show unfolded through six theatrical, musical, and entertainment scenes, each bringing history and culture to life. The first scene, “Al-Ajairi and the Stars,” featured a mesmerizing singing tableau titled “This Existence,” performed by artist Mohammed Al-Hamadi alongside the choir.

The second scene, “Al-Ajairi Inspires Al-Khwarizmi,” paid tribute to the legendary mathematician and astronomer. It included two captivating musical pieces: “The House of Wisdom,” performed by the choir, and “Astronomical Calculations,” sung by Mohammed Al-Hamadi.

The third scene, titled “Kuwait’s Sky, an Ornament for the Beholders,” featured two captivating musical performances. The first, “Desert Men,” was performed by artist Dr. Hamad Al-Manea, accompanied by a group of performers. The second, “Ship of Goodness,” was presented by a talented ensemble, bringing the rich cultural heritage of Kuwait to life through music and performance.

The fourth scene, titled “Kuwait, the Necklace of Jewels,” featured four musical performances. “The Art of Omani Al-Azzi” was sung by Munther Al-Haidi, while “The People of Oman,” “Mombasa and Lamu,” and “Marseille” were performed by the ensemble, showcasing a fusion of cultural influences and musical traditions.

The fifth scene, titled “Kuwait, the Path of Leadership and Light Throughout History,” featured three musical performances: “The Drama of the Epidemic – From Heritage,” sung by Abdulaziz Al-Musabah, “With Knowledge We Achieve Our Wishes,” performed by the group, and “The Poem of the Heart,” sung by Sultan Al-Muftah.

The closing act was the sixth and final scene, “Kuwait, a Gift from Heaven,” which included a musical performance titled “The Gateway to the Future,” performed by the group, symbolizing Kuwait’s enduring cultural and intellectual legacy.

Source: Al Rai