31 August 2026 13:44
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Last updated:
31 August 14:38 2026
Summary
The Sharjah Book Authority has extended the nomination period for the 2026 Translator Award until 15 September; a total of 1.4 million dirhams is allocated to support the global translation of Arabic books and to honour translators and publishers.
The Sharjah Book Authority has announced the continuation of applications for the “Translator Award” for 2026 until 15 September. The award, recognised as one of the most prestigious translation honours in the world, offers a total of 1.4 million dirhams to the winners, with the recipient’s name to be revealed during the opening ceremony of the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair.
This prestigious award invites submissions of Arabic works that have been translated into any language worldwide and published in their first print editions between 2016 and 2026. It focuses on intellectual, cultural, and creative fields rooted in or inspired by Arabic and Islamic heritage. The main aim of the award is to enhance the circulation of Arabic literature in international publishing markets and to promote the translation of Arabic works into new languages. Notably, it is the first of its kind globally to simultaneously recognise foreign translations and the original Arabic works they are based on.
Ahmad Al Amri
Ahmad bin Rakaad Al Amri, the CEO of the authority, stated: “The award has given Arabic literature a significant position in the cultural relationship between the Arab world and the globe; a work that transitions into a new language broadens its readership and enters into other contexts—from research and critique to education—enabling it to contribute more effectively to cultural discussions beyond its linguistic confines. Therefore, the award assesses the value of the translated work by integrating two complementary elements: the importance and intellectual and creative value of the original Arabic book, and the quality of the translation in conveying its ideas.”
He added, “The award embodies a practical aspect of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s vision in enhancing the contribution of Arabic knowledge production to the global knowledge dynamic. Under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the authority, it relies on a precise understanding of the pathway taken by literature towards new markets, balancing the protection of publication rights with a solid translation process, alongside an Arab publisher capable of delivering the book into the world’s languages in a manner that meets market expectations and the needs of new readers. Additionally, the distribution of the prize fund between the translator, the Arab publisher, and the foreign publisher reflects a practical recognition of each party’s role and encourages professional relationships that may extend into other works, languages, and new markets.”
In terms of financial distribution, the award allocates 910,000 dirhams to the winning foreign publisher—65% of the total prize—while the Arab publisher who holds the rights to the Arabic edition receives 390,000 dirhams, accounting for 27.8%. The translator of the winning work is awarded 100,000 dirhams.
Professional Criteria and Nomination Guidelines
Interested participants can visit the official website of the Sharjah International Book Fair to find further details regarding the nomination and participation in the “Translator Award,” ensuring their submissions are sent by the deadline of 15 September 2026.