Award recognises works for Arabic language promotion

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award, organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, celebrated the winners of its eighth edition. The award ceremony was held in the presence of Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Dubai Council.

The Award recognises outstanding contributions of individuals, groups, or institutions in promoting and preserving the Arabic language locally and globally. The winners were announced during the opening ceremony of the 10th International Arabic Language Conference, which runs from 10-12 October. The awards ceremony was attended by cultural icons, prominent writers, thinkers, Arabic language enthusiasts, and media professionals.

Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed emphasised the significance of initiatives that support and elevate the Arabic language, emphasising that such efforts were crucial to strengthening the stature and appeal of the language locally and globally. She highlighted that the ‘Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award’ reflects the visionary approach of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his passionate efforts to preserve and promote the Arabic language.

Sheikha Latifa stated: “The Arabic language is an essential component of society’s cognitive and cultural identity and stands as one of the most prominent pillars of global culture. With its diverse categories spanning education, technology, media, communication, language policy, and Arabization, this award demonstrates Arabic language’s strength, vitality, and adaptability, enabling it to be a language of innovation and the future. “We are proud of the widespread interest and participation from both local and international communities in initiatives such as this, launched from Dubai, which raise awareness about the richness of the Arabic language, its deep connection to our heritage, and its contribution to the world,” she added.

Speaking on the occasion, Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award, said: “The Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award embodies a strategic vision to preserve the rich heritage of the Arabic language, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to this cause. This award reflects our dedication to preserving our language and shaping its future. We aspire to nurture creativity and innovation in the use of this ancient language, empowering the next generation to serve as its ambassadors to the world.

“Since the award’s inception, our mission has been to raise awareness of the Arabic language’s significance and expand its applications across various fields. We see Arabic not merely as a tool for communication, but as a cultural bridge that connects nations. Furthermore, we are committed to broadening the scope of Arabization and drawing from global cultural experiences, proving that Arabic is indeed a future language.

“Each year, we witness remarkable innovations that demonstrate the evolution and advancement of the Arabic language. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the award’s success and congratulate the winners on their outstanding achievements. Their efforts are pivotal in shaping a promising future for our language.”

Bilal Al Budoor, Secretary-General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award, remarked: “The diversity and creativity evident in the submitted projects reflect the true depth and richness of the Arabic language, beautifully showcased in every entry. The broad participation from across the globe highlights a growing recognition of Arabic’s role in fostering communication, dialogue, and understanding among cultures.”

He added: “We have exceptional examples that illustrate how the Arabic language serves as both a catalyst for creativity and a gateway to new horizons of progress.

WAM