Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain - Hailing from Kuwait, is not just a poet, businessman, and philanthropist; he is a visionary on a mission to bridge the gaps between civilizations and celebrate the richness of Arab heritage on the global stage. His remarkable journey is one of unwavering dedication, and his impact on various cultural and educational fronts has left an indelible mark, making him a revered figure in the Arab world.
But what fuels such an extraordinary commitment to intercultural understanding and linguistic exchange? For Albabtain, it\'s more than just a passion; it\'s a lifelong calling rooted in a profound love for his heritage and an unshakeable belief in the power of culture to unite, not divide.
Albabtain\'s journey into the world of literature and poetry began during his tenure as a librarian at Al-Shuwaikh Secondary School in Kuwait from 1955 to 1962. During these years, he cultivated a deep appreciation for the written word, setting the stage for a lifelong exploration of literature\'s depths.
In 1974, he established the Saud Albabtain Kuwaiti Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies, a program designed to support financially disadvantaged students in their pursuit of higher education. Each year, this scholarship program extends its helping hand to 400 students from Central Asia, Africa, the Arab world, the Balkans, and Europe. It\'s a testament to Albabtain\'s unwavering commitment to providing educational opportunities to those who need them most.
Recognizing the pivotal role of translation in facilitating cross-cultural exchange, Albabtain founded the Albabtain Translation Center in 2005. This center has emerged as a vibrant hub for promoting translation between Arabic and other languages, fostering greater understanding between diverse cultures.
But Albabtain\'s vision goes beyond mere dialogue; it\'s a vision of action. By actively promoting the Arabic language and culture in foreign universities, he has constructed bridges of understanding between people of different backgrounds. This linguistic and cultural bridge-building isn\'t just an abstract concept; it\'s a tangible effort to bring the world closer together.
In solidarity with the people of Palestine, Albabtain established the Albabtain Kuwaiti Library at the Faculty of Arts, University of Jerusalem. This library serves as a reservoir of invaluable research resources and a cultural bridge connecting different communities. The Abdulaziz Albabtain Kuwaiti Award for Arabic Poetry in Palestine is another testament to his commitment to nurturing young Palestinian poets under 35 years old and encouraging their contributions to the world of poetry.
Promoting the Arabic language and culture in foreign universities remains a top priority for Albabtain. His unwavering dedication to this cause has led to the establishment of Chairs for Arabic Culture in numerous universities worldwide, significantly contributing to the global recognition of the Arabic language and culture. He understands that at the heart of peaceful coexistence lies the appreciation and understanding of each other\'s cultural and religious backgrounds. In acknowledgment of his contributions, Albabtain has received 17 honorary doctorates and certificates from universities and academic institutions around the world.
Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain\'s tireless efforts to promote a culture of peace and intercultural dialogue were recognized with the International Arabic Language Day award at the United Nations headquarters. He was honored as Ambassador of Goodwill and Personality of the Year in 2012 by the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) in the USA. In June 2022, he received the Albanian Order of the Flag from His Excellency Ilir Meta, then-President of the Republic of Albania. Notably, in 2018, President Marcelo Rebalo de Sousa of the Republic of Portugal bestowed upon him the Legion of Honor.
Albabtain\'s enduring commitment to preserving and promoting Arab culture, as well as his dedication to the cause of peace, continues to be a source of inspiration. His contributions serve as a testament to the profound impact that individuals can have when they commit themselves to enhancing culture and education, leaving a lasting legacy of understanding and unity in a diverse world.