Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity 2026/2027: Open Call for Emerging Arab Writers

The Sharjah Award for Arab Creativity – First Edition (Thirtieth Session 2026/2027), launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi and organized by the Sharjah Department of Culture, invites emerging Arab writers to submit unpublished manuscripts as their first work in one of the following categories: Classical Arabic Poetry, Short Story, Novel, Playwriting, Children’s Literature (stories for ages 6–8), and Criticism (focused this year on visual discourse in children’s stories). Open to participants aged 18–40 from the UAE and across the Arab world, submissions must be written in Modern Standard Arabic, original, unpublished, and not entered in other competitions. Each applicant may apply to only one category, and all works must align with ethical and cultural values. The deadline for submissions is October 31, 2026, with results announced in January 2027 and awards presented in April 2027. Winners will receive cash prizes and publication, along with participation in a creative workshop. To apply, download the application forms and submit the completed application via email to [shjibdaa@sdc.gov.ae](mailto:shjibdaa@sdc.gov.ae).