Sharjah: The UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) has announced the closure of registration for the 18th edition of the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature, receiving an impressive 475 entries from 20 Arab and foreign countries. This marks an increase of 68 entries compared to the 17th edition, reflecting a 16.7% growth. The award is currently in the process of accepting printed copies of submitted works until the end of August to ensure they meet the approved terms and requirements.
According to Emirates News Agency, the entries showed significant variation across different age categories. The Picture Book category, targeting children aged five to nine, received the highest number of entries with 184 submissions. This was followed by the Early Childhood category, for children from birth to five years, which garnered 112 entries. The Young People's Book category, aimed at readers aged 13 to 18, attracted 85 entries, while the Chapter Book category, for children aged nine to 12, recorded 67 entries. The Non-fiction Book category saw 27 entries, highlighting a growing trend in books that creatively impart knowledge and information to children.
The geographical distribution of entries was led by the UAE with 149 submissions, followed by Egypt with 115, Jordan with 52, Saudi Arabia with 43, and Lebanon with 27. Additionally, the award received entries from Canada (15), Qatar (12), Syria (11), Trkiye (9), Oman and Switzerland (8 each), Morocco (7), and 19 entries from eight other countries.
Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAEBBY, noted that the increase in submissions reflected a growing interest among creatives and publishers in Arabic-language children's literature. She emphasized that the entries not only highlight the current landscape of Arabic children's literature but also showcase a wide diversity in publications, themes, and creative experiences from various countries and cultural backgrounds.
Al Aqroubi further stated that the burgeoning participation indicates the ongoing development of the children's book industry, with creators becoming increasingly attuned to the intellectual and aesthetic needs of young readers. She expressed hope that the award would continue to spotlight works that blend original ideas with exceptional writing, illustrations, and production, thereby enhancing children's connection to the Arabic language and reading.
The judging panel, composed of writers, illustrators, and specialists in children's literature and publishing, will evaluate the eligible works based on originality, text and illustration quality, linguistic accuracy, and suitability for the target age group. The panel will also assess the books' ability to inspire children's imaginations, enrich their reading experiences, and provide Arabic content that balances enjoyment with literary and artistic value.
The International Award for Arabic Children's Literature remains committed to encouraging the creation of high-quality Arabic content for young readers, celebrating outstanding works, and honoring their creators. The award aims to enrich Arabic libraries and reinforce the importance of books in the lives of the younger generations.
The shortlist of competing works will be announced at a later date, with the winners being honored at the Sharjah International Book Fair on 4 November 2026.