Samri is a traditional folk art form featuring emotionally expressive group performances that holds a prominent place in the cultural heritage of the Arabian Gulf region. While its origins trace back to the Najd region of the Arabian Peninsula, it has gained particular popularity and development in Kuwait.
Emerging among desert communities and neighboring villages in Najd, Samri spread through migration and social exchanges, evolving into a distinctive artistic tradition. The form is closely linked to the poetry of Muhsin bin Uthman Al-Hazzani (1732–1824), a notable figure in Nabati poetry who governed Al-Hariq before retiring. Al-Hazzani is credited with founding Samri poetry and introducing the two-rhyme metre that characterizes the genre. Among his well-known works is “Al-Istighatha” (“The Plea for Help”), alongside various love poems, establishing him as an innovator and renovator of folk poetry.
Kuwaiti poets and musicians played a significant role in formalizing the conventions and guidelines of Samri, nurturing its growth and popularity. The term itself derives from “Samar” or “Musamarah,” referring to nighttime gatherings for conversation and singing among friends and loved ones. These social settings likely fostered the emergence of Samri, influenced by the calm of desert nights and the desire for communal relaxation in rural villages.
Over time, Samri drew the interest of community elders and rulers, some of whom had their poetry performed by renowned artists. For example, the poem “Who Will Return My Beloved Who Has Forsaken Me?” was famously rendered by Abdul Latif Al-Kuwaiti. Another notable poet, Muhammad bin Hamad bin La’boun (1790–1831), produced celebrated works such as “Twenty-Five Days of the Month Have Passed Without Me Seeing My Beloved,” exemplifying the Khamari poetry style. Bin La’boun’s poems, known as “La’bouniyat,” remain influential, with pieces like “O Paper Dove” still respected today.
Performers of Samri include distinguished figures such as Saleh Al-Aidi (also known as Saleh Al-Wateed) and Aisha Al-Murta, who are regarded as some of the art form's finest interpreters. The Kuwaiti poet Fahad Boursli is recognized as a pioneer, contributing important works that helped shape Samri's poetic tradition. Another notable poet, Abdulaziz Al-Duwaish, is known for evocative compositions, including a poem beginning with “Last Night, My Eyes Knew No Sleep.”
Kuwait has also been a leader in promoting women’s participation in Samri performances, marking a significant cultural development. In addition to the poetic and musical elements, Samri includes a men's dance traditionally known as “Zafan,” which accompanies the artistic presentations.
Together, these elements highlight Samri’s enduring significance as a vibrant cultural expression within the Arabian Gulf, particularly within Kuwait, where it continues to be celebrated and preserved.