UAE Launches Second Edition Of Great Arab Minds Initiative With AED 6 Million Prize Fund

The UAE has launched the second edition of the Great Arab Minds initiative, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This initiative, often referred to as the 'Arab Nobel Prize,' aims to recognise Arabs who have made significant contributions to humanity. It seeks to revive the Arab world's historical spirit of scientific inquiry and leadership.

The initiative celebrates exceptional Arab individuals whose achievements have driven progress and enriched knowledge globally. Six categories are included: medicine, engineering and technology, economics, natural sciences, architecture and design, and literature and arts. Nominations for individuals and institutions will close on 31 October 2024.

Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the Committee overseeing the initiative, emphasised its strategic importance. He stated that it aims to inspire Arab intellectuals by highlighting role models and honouring talented individuals. This effort is intended to lay a foundation for a more influential Arab scientific movement in the future.

Al Gergawi remarked: "Great Arab Minds is a strategic project aimed at showcasing the capabilities and potential of Arabs and reviving their historical role in shaping the future of the world. It seeks to elevate the pillars of human knowledge through the values of partnership, cooperation, and future readiness."

Al Gergawi encouraged academic, cultural, and knowledge institutions across the Arab world to nominate outstanding Arabs with remarkable achievements. He noted that this initiative is becoming a catalyst for reversing migration trends among talented Arabs eager to return to contribute to regional development.

The second edition will honour six winners with a total prize pool of AED6 million. Each category winner will receive AED1 million. Thousands of nominations from within and beyond the Arab region are anticipated for this edition.

Judging Process

The Great Arab Minds initiative continues its tradition of appointing expert judging panels for each category. This model was established in its inaugural edition to ensure thorough evaluation based on specific criteria. The panels include ministers, officials, experts, and specialists from various regions.

Nominations undergo rigorous evaluation based on comprehensive criteria such as achievements, results, certificates, patents, publications, books, research, and projects. This process culminates in selecting final nominations before announcing winners.

The initiative also highlights pioneers whose creative ideas enhance the Arab world's global standing in knowledge, science, and culture. It aims to create role models for younger generations by showcasing these achievements.

Al Gergawi added: "The initiative focuses on creating Arab role models who can serve as beacons for future generations in priority sectors. We are eager to achieve even broader positive impact in the second edition."

With inputs from WAM