Dubai’s Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation has released a new biography, “Ambassador Extraordinary – Ahmed Al Jasmi,” celebrating the life and artistic journey of the celebrated Emirati artist. The 294-page volume, penned by playwright Abdulellah Abdulqader, offers an in-depth look at Al Jasmi’s decades-long career in theatre and television, and its impact on the UAE’s cultural landscape.
The book is part of the foundation’s “Emirati Figures” series, a project dedicated to documenting the lives and legacies of prominent Emirati personalities across scientific, literary, and artistic fields. The series aims to preserve the achievements of influential Emiratis – poets, writers, and thinkers – and introduce their work to new generations, fostering research and engagement with Emirati heritage.
“Ambassador Extraordinary” isn’t simply a chronological recounting of Al Jasmi’s career. It delves into the cultural significance of his work, tracing his contributions to the development of theatre and television in the Emirates. The publication features testimonies from Mohammed Al Ameri, Dr. Yousif Aidabi, and Dr. Habib Ghuloom, offering diverse perspectives on Al Jasmi’s influence. It also includes a collection of photographs documenting the history of UAE theatre through the lens of Al Jasmi’s career, alongside scenes from his numerous stage productions spanning more than forty years.
The release of the biography coincides with a broader recognition of Al Jasmi’s contributions. On , the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation honored Al Jasmi with a special cultural evening. The event featured a book signing for “Ambassador Extraordinary” and a performance of the play “Papa,” written, directed, and designed by Mohammed Al Ameri, with Al Jasmi in a starring role alongside other leading Emirati stage actors.
The foundation emphasized that the evening was part of its ongoing commitment to recognizing prominent cultural and theatrical figures within the UAE. “Papa,” described as an emotionally driven production, explores themes of family and the human condition, showcasing Al Jasmi’s versatility as a performer.
The “Emirati Figures” project, of which this biography is a part, underscores a growing national effort to document and celebrate the country’s cultural pioneers. The initiative aims to not only preserve the legacies of these individuals but also to inspire future generations of artists and thinkers. By publishing biographical works, the foundation hopes to encourage research and a deeper understanding of the UAE’s rich cultural heritage.
Al Jasmi’s career has spanned decades, witnessing and contributing to the evolution of the UAE’s artistic landscape. The book promises to offer a comprehensive portrait of an artist who has left an indelible mark on Emirati theatre and television. The inclusion of historical photographs and testimonials adds layers of context, making “Ambassador Extraordinary” a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the cultural history of the Emirates.
The publication of this biography comes as the UAE continues to invest in its cultural sector, recognizing the importance of preserving its heritage while fostering a vibrant and innovative artistic community. The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation’s commitment to projects like “Emirati Figures” demonstrates a dedication to celebrating the nation’s cultural identity and ensuring its continued growth.
Those interested in purchasing “Ambassador Extraordinary – Ahmed Al Jasmi” can visit the foundation’s website at www.alowaisbooks.com.
