The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), in partnership with the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, has issued a silver commemorative coin to mark the 100th anniversary of Emirati poet Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais (1925-2025).
This initiative aligns with UNESCO’s recognition of 2025 as the Year of Culture in his honor.
Al Owais, a literary icon in the UAE and the Gulf, is renowned for his poetry and his namesake cultural award, which has recognized Arab literary excellence since 1987. The commemorative coin pays tribute to his legacy, featuring one of his poetic verses:
“My homeland is my blood, flowing between my wings, as if it and soul are the same.”
The reverse side bears his portrait, along with inscriptions in Arabic and English marking the centenary.
Each silver coin weighs 60 grams, has a face value of AED 100, and is limited to 1,000 pieces. The coins will be handed over to the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation and will be available for purchase exclusively at its headquarters.
Saif Humaid Aldhaheri, Assistant Governor of CBUAE, emphasized the significance of honoring cultural pioneers who have enriched the UAE’s literary heritage. Abdul Hamid Ahmed, Secretary-General of the Foundation, expressed gratitude to CBUAE, highlighting the coin as a lasting tribute to Al Owais’ intellectual and artistic contributions.
This commemorative issuance stands as a symbol of the UAE’s commitment to preserving its cultural and literary heritage while celebrating one of its most influential poets.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
