A prestigious Arab literary honour celebrating voices shaping culture and knowledge
The Sheikh Zayed Book Award returns on 16 September 2026, recognising exceptional achievements in Arab literature, culture and the humanities.
Named after the UAE’s Founding President, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the award celebrates writers, intellectuals, publishers, translators and emerging talent making a lasting impact through their work.
Since its launch, it has attracted more than 33,000 submissions from 80 countries and honoured 136 winners.
Spanning 10 award categories, the programme continues to highlight outstanding contributions to Arab intellectual and cultural life.
Winners in each category receive AED 750,000, reinforcing the award’s position as one of the region’s most significant literary honours.
As the 2026 edition approaches, it once again shines a spotlight on the people and ideas shaping the future of Arabic culture.
For more information, visit adnec.ae
