Child Media Award 2026 Launched To Promote Quality Arabic Content For Children

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (SCMC) has launched the "Child Media Award 2026." This initiative, supported by the UAE Media Council and in collaboration with the League of Arab States, aims to foster innovative Arabic media content that addresses children's issues and promotes their rights.

The award seeks to fill a gap in Arab awards by focusing on child-directed media. It encourages media institutions and individuals to create high-quality content that supports children's rights and promotes social values. The initiative also highlights the significant role of media in shaping young minds and creating positive narratives around children's issues.

Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE Media Council, emphasised the importance of this award as a milestone for Arab media. He stated, "Child-focused media has become a necessity that keeps pace with the rapid transformations in the media industry and ensures that our children receive responsible content that upholds human values and preserves Arab identity."

The award aims to strengthen Arab identity by focusing on works produced in Arabic. This ensures that shared values remain central to creative processes, reinforcing cultural identity through child-oriented media. The initiative also draws from international conventions on children's rights while reflecting regional cultural specifics.

Reem bint Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of SCMC, noted the rapid changes in the media landscape due to digital advancements. She highlighted challenges related to content quality and ethical standards, stressing the need for dedicated Arabic content for children to support their aspirations towards a better future.

Addressing Challenges in Child Media

Despite numerous awards in the Arab world, few focus on child-directed media. This award provides a structured framework to honour outstanding efforts in this field. It aims to instil positive values in children, develop their skills, and protect them from negative influences like bullying and stress.

The judging process will involve a specialised committee from the League of Arab States' Social Affairs Sector. This ensures transparency and adherence to professional standards. The award's categories aim to make child-focused media a long-term investment in building responsible generations.

H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's initiative was approved during the 55th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers. This approval reflects its significance in producing creative content serving children's issues across social, educational, and developmental dimensions.

Reem bint Abdullah Al Falasi expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her continuous support and guidance. She also thanked the League of Arab States for its cooperation in preparing this award, which aims to protect children from negative influences while ensuring their well-being.

The UAE remains committed to supporting initiatives that protect children and enhance their awareness. Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed expressed pride in partnering with the League of Arab States for this shared goal: building an aware and resilient generation ready for future challenges.

With inputs from WAM