Honoring Literary Achievement: The 19th Sheikh Zayed Book Award Celebrated in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) – In a grand ceremony held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, the 19th Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA) recognized exceptional literary contributions at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, along with His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, presided over the event, which drew an impressive array of dignitaries from the cultural sector.
Among the distinguished attendees were His Excellency Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi; His Excellency Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the President and Chancellor of UAE University; and His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. Notable figures such as Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Secretary General of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, further enriched the gathering with their presence.
In his capacity as Deputy Chairman, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan took to the stage to honor an illustrious cohort of awardees across various categories. Among the laureates was Lebanese/French author Hoda Barakat, celebrated for her remarkable contributions in the Literature category. Moroccan writer Latifa Labsir was honored in the realm of Children’s Literature, while Italian translator Marco Di Branco received accolades for his work in Translation. Furthermore, Moroccan researcher Dr. Said Laouadi was recognized for his insightful literary and art criticism.
The array of honorees also featured Emirati academic Prof. Dr. Mohammed Bechari, who was awarded for his significant Contribution to the Development of Nations, UK researcher Andrew Peacock for promoting Arab Culture in Other Languages, and Iraqi/UK scholar Rasheed Alkhayoun, who was recognized for his expertise in Editing of Arabic Manuscripts.
In a particularly poignant moment of the ceremony, Sheikh Theyab bestowed the title of Cultural Personality of the Year upon the acclaimed Japanese author Haruki Murakami. This recognition is a testament to Murakami’s profound literary impact, as his works have transcended geographical boundaries, enriching libraries around the world and embodying literature’s unique ability to bridge cultures.
The ceremony coincided with the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2025), an event that commenced on April 26 and will continue until May 5, 2025. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, this year’s SZBA edition witnessed a remarkable surge in participation, with over 4,000 submissions received from 75 countries, including 20 Arab nations. Notably, five nations—Albania, Bolivia, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mali—took part in the award for the first time, underscoring the growing global interest in Arab literature and culture.
Such impressive figures highlight the Sheikh Zayed Book Award’s esteemed status within the international cultural landscape. It stands as a beacon of the UAE’s commitment to fostering intellectual discourse and cultural exchange, reinforcing its position as a global hub for innovators and thought leaders.
Since its inception in 2006, the Sheikh Zayed Book Award has become one of the premier literary accolades in the Arab world. It celebrates extraordinary contributions in literature, human sciences, translation, and publishing, thus empowering authors who enrich Arab culture and promote understanding across linguistic barriers.
Winners of the Cultural Personality of the Year distinction are rewarded with a gold medal, a certificate of appreciation, and a generous cash prize of Dh1 million, while honorees in other categories take home a prize of Dh750,000 along with a gold medal and certificate. These awards not only recognize individual achievement but also underscore the UAE’s aim to sustain and strengthen cultural activities within the Arab region and globally.
In conclusion, the 19th Sheikh Zayed Book Award serves not merely as a recognition of literary excellence but also as a potent symbol of the UAE’s dedication to cultural enrichment. By honoring diverse voices and promoting intellectual endeavors, the Award continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the vibrancy of global literary culture.
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