Source : WAM
The International Award for Arabic Children’s Literature, established in 2009, was launched with the aim of placing Arab children’s literature on the global map, affirming that stories written and published in Arabic can stand alongside the finest children’s books in any language.
Over the past decade, the award has expanded significantly, growing from 47 submissions from eight Arab countries in its inaugural edition to more than 300 entries each year from over 20 countries across the Arab world and beyond. In addition to celebrating literary excellence, the award has evolved to create lasting impact by supporting authors, illustrators, and publishers, ultimately reshaping how Arab children connect with reading.
The award’s growth is closely tied to Sharjah’s vibrant cultural landscape, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and led by H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. Under this leadership, reading and publishing have become central pillars of sustainable cultural development.
Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), explained that the award was created to provide an authentic creative space that reflects the Arab child, offering stories in which young readers can recognise their language, emotions, and everyday experiences. She noted that modern children’s literature now addresses more complex themes, requiring stories that help children understand the world, encourage reflection and balance, and open doors to new possibilities.
Al Aqroubi stressed that Sharjah firmly believes culture begins in childhood and that nurturing a child’s imagination is an investment in a shared future, as imagination forms the foundation of knowledge, awareness, creativity, and positive change.
She concluded, “Each edition of the award reveals new voices and perspectives, reaffirming the power of the Arabic language to carry stories of broad human significance. The story of the award continues, always beginning with the phrase that mirrors Arab childhood memory: ‘Once upon a time.’”
Over the past ten years, the award has recognised more than 100 authors, illustrators, and publishers, encouraging the creation of nearly 400 books for children and young adults in Arabic. Since 2017, the award has expanded to include illustrators, acknowledging the vital role of visual storytelling in stimulating children’s imagination.
The award has also helped Arab authors gain international recognition. Many works first honoured in Sharjah have gone on to be showcased at major global book fairs such as Bologna, Frankfurt, and London, opening new professional opportunities. More than 40 award-winning titles have been translated into languages including English, French, Turkish, and Korean, introducing Arab children’s literature to readers around the world.
