At Bologna Children’s Book Fair, the UAE reinforces its global cultural presence as Sharjah Book Authority unveils the latest edition of its flagship Arabic children’s literature award.
At the heart of one of the world’s most influential publishing gatherings, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, the UAE’s cultural voice took centre stage as Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority and Founder of the UAE Board on Books for Young People, witnessed the launch of the 18th edition of the International Award for Arabic Children’s Literature.
Presented by “e&”, the announcement underscores the UAE’s continued investment in strengthening Arabic publishing and expanding its global literary footprint—particularly in the field of children’s literature.
The launch took place amid a strong Emirati presence at the fair, which serves as a global meeting point for publishers, authors and illustrators. More than a showcase, the Bologna fair functions as a strategic hub for international collaboration, opening pathways for translation, distribution and cross-cultural exchange within the publishing industry.
A structured platform for Arabic children’s publishing
The International Award for Arabic Children’s Literature is designed across five categories, reflecting the developmental stages of young readers—from early childhood through to young adult and non-fiction. These categories allow publishers to submit works that balance creativity, educational value and artistic quality, while aligning with the cognitive and emotional needs of different age groups.
Submissions span Early Childhood, Picture Book, Chapter Book, Young Adult and a rotating Non-Fiction category, with criteria designed to encourage originality, innovation and relevance across formats.
A long-standing cultural and corporate partnership
Speaking at the launch, His Excellency Mohammed Al Amimi, Acting General Manager – Northern Emirates at e& UAE, highlighted the award’s long-standing impact on the Arabic publishing ecosystem and its role in nurturing emerging talent.
He emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between the private sector and cultural institutions in supporting the growth of knowledge industries and strengthening the UAE’s position as a global hub for publishing and innovation.
Strengthening Arabic creativity on the global stage
Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAE Board on Books for Young People, noted that launching the new edition at an international platform such as Bologna reflects the award’s growing ambition to reach wider audiences and elevate Arabic children’s literature globally.
She highlighted the award’s role in supporting authors, illustrators and publishers in producing high-quality works that reflect both artistic excellence and cultural identity, while fostering a deeper connection between young readers and the Arabic language.
Submissions and future outlook
The award is now open for submissions until 31 August 2026, inviting Arabic-speaking authors, illustrators and publishers worldwide to participate. Winners will be announced at the opening ceremony of the Sharjah International Book Fair, with a total prize fund of AED 1.2 million distributed across categories.
Since its inception, the award has recognised hundreds of works and played a significant role in shaping the regional children’s publishing landscape—while also elevating Arabic literature’s presence on global platforms.
In Bologna, the message was clear: Arabic children’s literature is not only being preserved—it is being actively positioned for global relevance, exchange and growth.
