A literary legend turns twenty, and it’s rewriting the narrative on cultural impact! The Sheikh Zayed Book Award has officially opened nominations for its 20th edition, once again inviting the brightest minds and most eloquent pens from across the globe to take part in a celebration of intellect, creativity, and cross-cultural dialogue. From its home base in Abu Dhabi, the award has grown into one of the Arab world’s most prestigious honors—often dubbed the “Arab Nobel” for literature—and this year’s milestone edition promises to be bigger, bolder, and more globally resonant than ever.
Covering 10 influential categories—from Literature and Young Author to Translation, Arabic Culture in Other Languages, and Publishing & Technology—the award is more than a prize; it’s a powerful platform for advancing Arabic language, thought, and heritage on the world stage. Scholars, writers, historians, and publishers from every continent are welcome to apply, as the award celebrates diversity in expression and unity in understanding.
More than just a celebration of books, the Sheikh Zayed Book Award champions ideas that transcend borders. It fosters inter-civilisational dialogue, promotes Arabic intellectual traditions, and serves as a cultural bridge between East and West. Whether it’s a groundbreaking philosophical text, a poetic masterpiece, or an insightful academic translation, each nominated work contributes to a broader vision—one shaped by Abu Dhabi’s dedication to enriching global knowledge ecosystems.
Since its inception, the award has not only spotlighted emerging and established voices from the Arab world, but it has also supported institutions and translated works that deepen the global appreciation of Arabic culture. It’s a testament to how literature can both preserve identity and inspire innovation.
So, as the 20th edition kicks off, one thing is certain: the Sheikh Zayed Book Award continues to be a powerful force for cultural diplomacy, literary excellence, and intellectual exchange.
