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.

This edition will mark the Award’s 20th anniversary and will include an international engagement programme which will celebrate the legacy of the Award over the past two decades. Founded in 2006, the Sheikh Zayed Book Award has since awarded 136 laureates, contributing to the international recognition and appreciation of established and emerging authors, some of which are now considered some of the most influential figures in Arabic literature, culture and scholarship. The Award has also supported the translation of over 45 titles into over 9 languages through its Translation Grant programme, established in 2018 and open to applications throughout the year.