Submissions open for the Sheikh Zayed Book Award’s 20th Anniversary Edition

The Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA), one of the Arab world’s most prestigious literary prizes, is now open for submissions for its 20th anniversary edition across ten categories. The Award, organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), recognises the work of writers, translators, researchers, academics and publishers in advancing Arabic literature and culture in any field of knowledge. Submissions will remain open until 1st September 2025.

His Excellency Dr Ali Bin Tamim, Secretary-General of the SZBA and Chairman of the ALC said, “As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award, we are honoured to witness an inspiring diversity of submissions that reflect the richness and dynamism of Arabic literature and thought.”

The Award includes ten categories, of which five are open to international applicants and non-Arabic books.