Sharjah Theatre Days honours Jamal Al Sumeiti

The evening was hosted by the veteran Emirati actor and director Hassan Rajab, who delivered a heartfelt tribute to Al-Sumeiti. Reflecting on their long-standing partnership, he described him as “a remarkable artist, defined as much by his humility and humanity as by his talent”.

Rajab said. “Jamal has been an integral part of nearly all my work. He is one of the easiest artists to work with, and he brings a distinct presence to the stage—whether in comedy or tragedy.”

Rajab also recalled two decades of shared experiences, both artistic and personal, spanning the Emirati and wider Gulf theatre scene.

An enduring partnership

In his remarks, Al-Sumeiti expressed deep gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his continued patronage of culture and the arts and his longstanding support for theatre in the UAE.

He also thanked Hassan Rajab for the tribute and praised the work of the Department of Culture. He said that his advice had a lasting effect, especially during rehearsals for their shows. He then reflected on the works that united them over the years, highlighting their strong artistic partnership.

Testimonials  from across the region

The evening featured a series of testimonials from Emirati and Arab artists, all celebrating Al-Sumeiti’s career and contribution to the arts.

Emirati actor Ahmed Al Jasmi praised his professional journey, describing the honour as a recognition not only of Al-Sumeiti but also of Emirati artists more broadly. Kuwaiti actor Jassim Al Nabhan commended his work across theatre, radio, and television, calling the tribute “a recognition for every Gulf and Arab artist."

Dr Habib Ghuloom highlighted the creative collaboration between Rajab and Al-Sumeiti, describing him as one of the most prominent actors of the UAE’s third generation. Theatre actor Saeed Salem spoke warmly of his character, noting his popularity wherever he performs and recalling his contributions to major productions at the Umm Al Quwain National Theatre.

Kuwaiti artist Khalifa Khilyufuh extended his thanks to the Ruler of Sharjah for his continued support of the festival, describing it as one of the most significant theatrical events in the Gulf and the Arab world. Egyptian academic Dr Omar Faraj praised Al-Sumeiti’s artistic experience and expressed hope that he would devote more time to acting.

Jordanian director Dr Ali Al Shawabka commended Rajab and Al-Sumeiti for their sincerity and passion for theatre while also praising the festival’s commitment to honouring local artists. Jordanian researcher Dr Firas Al Rimouni described the tribute as a meaningful recognition of Arab artists at large.

Munir Al Arki, Director of the Carthage Theatre Festival, said he had followed Al-Sumeiti’s work for many years, praising what he described as his “genuine talent. ”.

The evening also included contributions from a number of Arab artists and media figures, including Rania Fathallah and Iman Muntasir from Egypt, as well as Tunisian actor and director Tahir Issa Ben Larbi.

A Career in Focus

To mark the occasion, the festival's organising committee released a special publication titled "Jamal Al-Sumeiti: Lightness of Spirit." The booklet brings together testimonials from Emirati and Arab artists, alongside archival material, photographs, and press clippings documenting his artistic journey. It also highlights his most notable works and the awards he has received throughout his career in Emirati and Arab drama.