Poet Fahd Bajad Al-Baqami was crowned "Shair Al-Raya" in its third season during the closing ceremony held on the evening of Tuesday, 25 December 2024, on the Diriyah Theatre stage at Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University. The one-million-riyal cash prize was presented by Mohammed bin Fahad Al-Harthy, CEO of the Saudi Broadcasting Authority, before a large crowd and a host of poetry and literary stars.

Competition Results:

  • First place: poet Fahd Bajad Al-Baqami – prize of one million riyals.
  • Second place: poet Ayman Al-Rowaili – prize of 500,000 riyals.
  • Third place: poet Lafa Al-Mutairi – prize of 300,000 riyals.
  • Fourth place: poet Omar Al-Mutairi – prize of 200,000 riyals.

The "Shair Al-Raya" Program:

The program, organized by the Saudi Broadcasting Authority, is a leading platform for supporting poetic talent from the Kingdom, the Gulf and the wider Arab world, channeling it toward national, social and humanitarian values. The program focuses on Nabati poetry as part of the Arab poetic heritage and airs on Saudi TV, Riyadh Radio and the Shahid platform, drawing millions of views and wide engagement throughout the season.

Highlights of the Third Season:

  • Judging panel: featured a lineup of prominent names, including Dr. Saeed Al-Sarihi and poets Nasser Al-Subaie and Khaled Al-Muraikhi.
  • Hosts: presenters Noha Nabeel and Saeed Al-Mane hosted the show, joined by Sultan Al-Humaili from Mamar Al-Shu'ara.
  • Audience turnout: the ceremony ended on a grand note amid wide engagement from poetry fans across the Kingdom and the Gulf.
  • Reviving Poetic Heritage: the program offered an opportunity to showcase poetic creativity and document society's connection to its cultural heritage.

Continued Success:

"Shair Al-Raya" continues its successful run, cementing its standing as a prestigious platform for showcasing poetic talent and strengthening Nabati poetry's place in the Arab cultural scene.