Theyab Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Celebrates Winners Of 19th Sheikh Zayed Book Award In Abu Dhabi Ceremony
Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 19th Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA) ceremony took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, honoured the winners. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.
The award ceremony coincided with the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2025), which began on 26 April and will run until 5 May 2025. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, this year’s SZBA saw over 4,000 submissions from 75 countries, including first-time participants from Albania, Bolivia, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mali. This reflects the award's growing international reputation.
H.H. Sheikh Theyab presented awards to winners in various categories. Lebanese/French author Hoda Barakat won in Literature; Moroccan writer Latifa Labsir in Children’s Literature; Italian translator Marco Di Branco in Translation; and Dr Said Laouadi from Morocco in Literary and Art Criticism. These individuals were acknowledged for their significant contributions to their respective fields.
Additionally, Emirati Prof Dr Mohammed Bechari was recognised for his Contribution to the Development of Nations. UK researcher Andrew Peacock received an award for Arab Culture in Other Languages, while Rasheed Alkhayoun from Iraq/UK was honoured for Editing of Arabic Manuscripts. These awards highlight diverse achievements across different cultural domains.
Renowned Japanese author Haruki Murakami was named Cultural Personality of the Year. His literary works have enriched global libraries with unique novels that are widely read and translated worldwide. This recognition underscores literature's power to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding among diverse communities.
The Sheikh Zayed Book Award is a prestigious accolade within the Arab world, celebrating exceptional contributions in literature, human sciences, translation, publishing, and development since its inception in 2006. It honours authors who enhance Arab culture through their notable works across various disciplines.
Promoting Intellectual Excellence
The Cultural Personality of the Year receives a gold medal, a certificate of appreciation, and AED1 million. Winners in other categories are awarded AED750,000 each along with a gold medal and certificate of appreciation. These prizes aim to support intellectual creativity and sustain cultural activities both regionally and globally.
The SZBA plays a crucial role in establishing the UAE as a global intellectual hub by recognising creative thinkers worldwide. Its influence extends beyond regional boundaries, cementing its status as a leading platform for cultural exchange and intellectual growth on an international scale.
With inputs from WAM
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