A key addition to this year’s award is the “Non-Fiction” category, introduced to promote books that foster critical thinking and real-world exploration in young readers.
The International Award for Arabic Children’s Literature has officially launched its 17th edition, unveiling a new website and expanded categories.
Organised by the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) and announced at the 16th Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival, the award underscores the UAE’s commitment to nurturing Arabic literature and fostering a generation of young readers.
A Vision for Global Reach
Marwa Al Aqroubi, chair of UAEBBY, highlighted the award’s broadened vision, aiming to amplify Arabic children’s literature internationally and encourage more authors, publishers, and illustrators to participate.
New Developments: Non-Fiction and Global Expansion
A key addition to this year’s award is the “Non-Fiction” category, introduced to promote books that foster critical thinking and real-world exploration in young readers. This category will rotate every two years, encouraging innovative storytelling based on factual content. The award now consists of five categories:
Early Childhood (ages 0-5) – Up to five submissions per publisher.
Picture Book (ages 5-9) – Maximum five submissions.
Chapter Book (ages 9-12) – Unlimited entries, prioritizing storytelling over illustrations.
Young Adult (ages 13-18) – Includes fiction, fantasy, and nonfiction, with no submission limit.
Non-Fiction (up to age 18) – Unlimited entries.
Financial and Institutional Support for Creative Talent
The award carries a total prize of AED 1.2 million ($325,000), divided equally among authors, illustrators, and publishers. Additionally, 100,000 AED has been allocated for training through the “Warsha” program, helping develop emerging creative talent.
Eligible books must be original, published in Arabic, and printed within the past five years.
Works cannot have received prior awards or be part of series, educational, or scientific texts.
Expanding Global Access and Participation
The award’s new website reflects its international ambition, designed to attract a global audience and increase participation. Submissions remain open until August 31, with winners to be announced at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025.
The Award was touted at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair earlier this year.
This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.
