Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, is set to crown the winners of the Arab Reading Challenge 2025 on October 23 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This event marks the conclusion of the ninth edition of the world’s largest reading competition, which saw the participation of 32 million students from 132,000 schools.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasized the importance of spreading knowledge as a core mission of the UAE, aimed at fostering a generation eager to learn and serve their nation. The Arab Reading Challenge, launched by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed in 2015, aligns with this mission by encouraging students to read 50 books annually, promoting the Arabic language, and instilling a passion for knowledge.
Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), highlighted the record participation in the ninth edition as a testament to the initiative’s success and its impact on advancing education and culture across the Arab world. He also acknowledged the efforts of educational institutions in participating countries, which played a crucial role in coordinating and collaborating with MBRGI throughout the competition stages.
The concluding ceremony will honor several categories, including the Arab Reading Challenge 2025 Champion, People of Determination Champion, Best School, Outstanding Supervisor, and Communities Champion. The Arab Reading Champion will receive AED500,000, while cash prizes will also be awarded to winners in other categories.
The Arab Reading Challenge has achieved significant milestones since its inception, with total participation reaching over 163 million students. It continues to inspire young Arabs to embrace reading, enhance their language skills, and appreciate the cultural diversity that the challenge promotes.