In an effort to celebrate Arabic cultural achievements and foster connections across civilizations, the Sharjah Book Authority has officially opened nominations for the eighth edition of the Sharjah Translation Award, known as “Tarjuman.” This initiative aims to enhance the visibility of Arabic literature on the global cultural stage and encourages foreign publishers to translate remarkable works of Arabic creativity and thought into other languages, bridging cultural and intellectual gaps between nations.
Details of the Award
The total value of the Sharjah Translation Award is 1.4 million dirhams, which will be awarded for the best foreign translation of an Arabic work. This reflects the commitment of the Sharjah Book Authority and the Sharjah International Book Fair to establish translation as a vital means of promoting human dialogue and cultural communication, as well as conveying Arab knowledge and creativity to the world.
Application Process
The authority will accept nominations until September 15, with winners being announced during the opening ceremony of the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair in November. Those interested can familiarize themselves with the nomination criteria through the official fair website, ensuring transparency and accessibility in the application process.
Promoting Cross-Cultural Awareness
His Excellency Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, emphasized that the Sharjah Translation Award, “Tarjuman,” embodies the authority’s commitment to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. He also noted the guidance of Sheikha Budour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, in enhancing the presence of Arabic literature and the emirate’s cultural project on the global stage.
“Translation is a process of building shared awareness among civilizations, a powerful tool for fostering understanding and mutual respect, and expanding the circle of cultural dialogue,” he stated. Under the leadership of Sheikha Budour, the award has become a platform that supports partnerships between publishers and translators, opening new avenues for Arabic literature to reach readers in their native languages and conveying the essence of Arab creativity to the world. Each translated work acts as a bridge connecting Arab culture with the global community, reinforcing knowledge as a common denominator for humanity.
Supporting Translation and Recognizing Creative Efforts
The award invites publishers who have completed the first authorized foreign translation of an outstanding Arabic work in its initial edition to participate. Applicants are required to submit four printed copies of the translated book, alongside one copy of the original Arabic work. Additionally, a summary in both Arabic and the target language, not exceeding 500 words, must be included, detailing the author’s background, the work’s content, and its cultural and literary significance. The award also necessitates the inclusion of documents proving publishing, translation, and distribution rights.
Acknowledging Contributions in the Translation Process
The Sharjah Translation Award recognizes all contributors involved in the translation process. The translator will receive 100,000 dirhams, while the Arabic publishing house that released the original work will obtain 30% of the remaining amount. The foreign publishing house will receive 70% of the prize’s remainder. This distribution not only celebrates individual contributions but also emphasizes the collaborative effort required in translating works of literature.