UAE Creatives Pay Tribute to Dylan Thomas on Dylan Day 2026
- Sands and City Magazine
- May 15
- 2 min read
Just recently, on May 5, the Welsh Guards Band performed the UAE national anthem in a gesture of friendship and respect toward the United Arab Emirates, marking the 50th anniversary of the UAE Armed Forces Unification. The moving performance symbolized the enduring cultural connection and mutual appreciation between Wales and the UAE.
Now, UAE artists and creatives have responded with the same spirit of kindness and cultural respect by paying tribute to one of Wales’ greatest literary voices — Dylan Thomas. Known worldwide for his lyrical poetry, emotional depth, and the timeless masterpiece Under Milk Wood, Dylan Thomas remains one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century. Every year, Dylan Day is celebrated on 14 May, honoring his literary legacy and inspiring artists, writers, and cultural communities across the world.
Following the initiative of Dr. Ana Stjelja, a Dubai-based writer, artist, and cultural curator and the president of the Alia Mundi Association for Promoting Cultural Diversity, UAE artists and creatives came together to showcase diverse and creative artworks in celebration of Dylan Day 2026. The initiative highlighted the multicultural and internationally connected spirit of the UAE art scene, where literature and visual art often meet in meaningful dialogue.
More than 150 poets and artists from around the world took part in this global cultural event, celebrating the legacy of Dylan Thomas through poetry, visual art, and creative expression.
UAE Artists Ahmed Al Awadhi Rukni, Faeze Mohammed Hassan, Leena Kewlani, Jesno Jackson Hassan, Samaneh Mojaveri, Nagla Ali Hassan, Sanili Saha, Shilpi Dabral, Sheikha A., Safa Peshimam and Mariam Khawer gave their significant contribution to Dylan Day through artworks inspired by poetry, cultural memory, identity, and human connection. Their participation reflected not only admiration for Dylan Thomas’ literary heritage, but also the openness of the UAE artistic community toward global cultural exchange.
The UAE art scene has long been recognized for honoring diverse international and national cultural celebrations, creating bridges between communities through creativity and artistic expression. With this initiative, Dylan Day has found its place within the cultural calendar of prominent UAE artists and curators, further strengthening the dialogue between Welsh literary heritage and the contemporary multicultural landscape of the UAE.
In a world increasingly shaped by division and uncertainty, initiatives such as Dylan Day remind us that art, poetry, and culture continue to speak a universal language — one capable of connecting nations, honoring traditions, and inspiring new generations through mutual respect and creative collaboration.
Video: The National / YouTube
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