106 school librarians nominated across the UAE for outstanding contributions to education
From turning reluctant readers into book lovers to transforming school libraries into vibrant hubs of learning, the Emirates Literature Foundation has honoured the UAE’s most inspiring school librarians at the 2025 School Librarian of the Year Awards.
Held at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the awards ceremony was led by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Emirates Literature Foundation’s Board of Trustees, who personally presented the awards to this year’s winners.
“Supporting school librarians is a strategic investment in the intellectual and cultural development of our nation,” His Highness said.
“I am proud to see initiatives like the School Librarian of the Year Awards and the Reading for Pleasure Conference shaping a generation that values knowledge, creativity, and community.”
With 106 nominations from all seven Emirates—26 public schools and 80 private schools—the awards recognised those who go above and beyond in promoting a love of reading.
The event also marked the launch of the new Association of School Librarians under the Community Development Authority, aiming to create a shared platform for professional development and collaboration.
Now in its ninth year, the Awards formed part of the Reading for Pleasure Conference—an initiative dedicated to cultivating a love of reading across schools.
It’s all part of a wider national effort to empower students through curiosity, literacy, and a lifelong joy of learning.
Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of the Emirates Literature Foundation, Director of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, and Managing Director of ELF Publishing, called the winners “leaders of educational transformation.”
“They’ve reimagined libraries as dynamic learning hubs—blending education, technology, and community building. Their work aligns perfectly with the UAE’s vision for a future-ready generation.”
2025 School Librarian of the Year Winners
SLOY Award:
- Public: Azza Mohamed, Qatr Alnada School, Abu Dhabi
- Private: Marina Koniotou, Amity International School, Abu Dhabi
Best Use of Resources:
- Public: Moza Al Hassani, Atekah Bint Zaid School – Cycle 1, Sharjah
- Private: Mathilde Serhan Dupont, Lyceè Fraçais International de Dubaï (AFLEC), Dubai
Best in Innovation:
- Public: Aisha Al Ahbabi, AlQemma School, Abu Dhabi
- Private: Louise MacLeod, GEMS International School, Dubai
Best in Community Involvement:
- Public: Kholoud Al Kaabi, Al Ataa School, Abu Dhabi
- Private: Lakmee Senadheera, Al Ain British Academy, Abu Dhabi
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