Arab Reading Challenge Celebrates Ten Years Of Inspiring Reading And Cultural Engagement In The Arab World

The Arab Reading Challenge, initiated by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2015, has become a significant platform for promoting literacy across the Arab world. Mohammad Al Gergawi highlighted the initiative's role in fostering a love for reading and the Arabic language among young generations. This initiative is seen as a key driver in building a knowledgeable and conscious Arab generation.

Al Gergawi noted that the challenge has significantly increased reading time outside school hours, from less than an hour weekly to over four hours, equating to about 200 hours annually. The initiative's impact is evident in students' eagerness to read and excel academically, with many viewing it as a milestone in their educational journey.

A study conducted with UNESCO revealed that the Arab Reading Challenge has profoundly influenced students' reading habits. Since its inception, there has been a notable increase in reading rates and self-education efforts among participants. The average number of books read per student annually rose from eight to over 40 after joining the challenge.

The study also found that more than 80% of participating students now read regularly, engaging in activities like summarising stories and writing essays. Additionally, 70% of participants have better access to both print and digital books, with those reading over 50 books yearly increasing by 147%.

The Arab Reading Challenge has received official recognition from various educational institutions and the United Nations. It was acknowledged as a leading cultural project by the Arab League on 18 December 2024, urging education ministries to integrate it into national curricula. This recognition underscores its importance in preserving Arabic heritage and identity.

Over nine editions, the challenge attracted more than 163 million students and over 927,000 schools across the Arab world. Participation grew from 3.6 million students initially to over 32 million in its ninth edition, marking a substantial increase of over 795%.

Winners and Awards

The ninth edition crowned twins Bisan and Baylasan Kouka from Tunisia as the 2025 Arab Reading Champions. Maria Hassan Ojail from Iraq won the People of Determination Champion title. Atika bint Zaid School from the UAE shared the Best School award with Tarablus Al Haddadin School from Lebanon. Sahar Misbah from Egypt was named Outstanding Supervisor.

The challenge awards AED11 million annually across various categories, including AED500,000 for the overall champion and AED1 million for the best school. Since its launch, total prizes have reached AED99 million.

Educational Impact

The challenge has diversified students' reading interests into fiction, science, history, and self-development. It also improved Arabic language skills such as comprehension and writing style while enhancing pride in Arabic culture and identity among participants.

Teachers emerged as key supporters of intensive reading among participants, followed by families and peers. The use of digital books alongside traditional print materials increased significantly during this period.

This initiative continues to inspire new generations to embrace knowledge through reading while strengthening their connection to Arabic culture and language.

With inputs from WAM