Nala Narrative Forum launches in Riyadh to honor Mohammed Ali Alwan

The Nala Association for Literature and Narrative Arts is launching the first edition of the Nala Narrative Forum in Riyadh. Held at the Madarem Hotel on September 9 and 10, 2026, the inaugural session is dedicated to the short story and is named the ‘Mohammed Ali Alwan Session’ to honor the prominent Saudi storyteller.

The event will feature a documentary film detailing Alwan’s life and literary achievements, a tribute to his legacy, and the launch of his complete works to preserve his impact on Saudi narrative history. The forum aims to serve as a platform for dialogue and criticism regarding the evolution of the short story in Saudi Arabia.

The program includes critical readings of Alwan’s work, sessions on the technical characteristics of contemporary short stories, and discussions on how societal and cultural shifts influence the genre. Participants will also explore the representation of the city in contemporary Saudi narrative. The forum will conclude with the announcement of official recommendations.