Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity Sets October 31 as Final Deadline for Submissions

Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity Sets October 31 as Final Deadline for Submissions

Al Qaseer: The Award Reflects the Sharjah Ruler’s Commitment to Creativity and Emerging Talents 

The General Secretariat of the Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity (First Edition) has announced October 31 as the final deadline for receiving submissions for its 30th edition. The award is dedicated to manuscripts intended for first-time publication by male and female writers from the United Arab Emirates and across the Arab world.

The award is organized in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and forms part of His Highness’s ongoing efforts to support talented writers in the award’s literary fields, which include short story, poetry, novel, theatre, children’s literature, and literary criticism.

Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Sharjah Department of Culture and Secretary-General of the Award, said: “The award embodies the deep commitment of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to nurturing creativity and his continuous support for talented writers, enabling them to showcase their first literary experiences and engage with the Arab cultural scene.”

Al Qaseer emphasized that since its establishment, the award has enriched the Arab cultural landscape through 522 winners across previous editions. These writers have established their presence, left a lasting literary impact, and become active contributors to the Arab creative movement.

The Secretary-General noted that the award welcomes submissions from all Arab countries and has witnessed a significant expansion in its geographical reach, attracting entries from around the world. Previous editions received notable submissions from countries such as The Gambia, Mali, Senegal, Pakistan, and Canada, reflecting the award’s growing international presence. He added that each edition receives more than 500 submissions, demonstrating the strong interest it continues to attract.

Al Qaseer highlighted that the award’s continuity over several decades reflects Sharjah’s enduring commitment to its cultural and enlightenment project and its role in nurturing literary talent, thereby strengthening the presence of Arab creativity at both regional and international levels.

The General Secretariat has approved the participation criteria, allowing submissions from both male and female writers from the UAE and across the Arab world. Manuscripts must be submitted for publication in book form for the first time, must not have been previously printed, awarded in a similar competition, submitted for an academic degree, or previously published.