The First Gulf School Drama Festival for intermediate and secondary schoolboys will be held at the Arts Institute in Sharjah from January 19 to 27, said an official at the Ministry of Education and Youth.

Dr Ezzeddine Helali, Educational Drama Supervisor at the Ministry, said: "The School Drama Festival in the UAE will be a first in the Gulf countries and is an activity for students to enhance their education.

"Education is not only scientific and technical but also emotional, moral and spiritual. Drama activities at school can be used to deepen and strengthen students' knowledge," he said.

There are no restrictions on the type of play, whether it is written by teachers, students or is an adaptation from an existing play.

The festival will be for boys only. Each school will field 10 entrants and two supervisors. Each year, the festival will be hosted by one of the GCC member states.