Abu dhabi: The Ministry of Culture has announced key details of the 20th edition of “Al Burda Award,” a cultural celebration of Islamic arts, during a media briefing held at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The briefing gathered senior officials, cultural leaders, and representatives from leading media outlets.
According to Emirates News Agency, Shatha Al Mulla, Assistant Undersecretary for the National Identity and Arts Sector of the Ministry of Culture, highlighted the award’s journey since its inception in 2004 under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Al Mulla discussed the initiative’s growth into a pioneering cultural platform that reflects the UAE’s role as a global hub for creativity and civilizational dialogue. Additionally, she emphasized the significance of this year’s edition, as it coincides with the ‘Year of the Family.’
Over the past 19 editions, the award has honored more than 420 talented individuals globally and has been pivotal in showcasing poetry, calligraphy, and ornamentation as integral pillars of Islamic arts. This legacy underscores the UAE’s commitment to preserving Islamic cultural heritage and enhancing its presence on the international cultural landscape.
Al Mulla noted the award’s steady growth in participation and quality of submissions over the years, with the previous cycle attracting more than 1,300 artworks from 50 countries. She outlined the key features of the 20th edition, which includes transformative updates to the award categories and artistic criteria to foster creative exploration while preserving the authenticity of Islamic arts.
The award comprises three main categories: Arabic poetry, Arabic calligraphy, and ornamentation, each branching into multiple subcategories, including classical, nabati, and free verse poetry; traditional, contemporary, and typographic design; along with traditional and contemporary ornamentation. The latest edition introduces a notable development in traditional calligraphy by combining the Rayhani and Jali Muhaqqaq styles, complemented by a new ornamental direction inspired by Mamluk-period art.
The initiative aims to motivate artists to engage with Islamic heritage in modern, creative ways. Al Mulla also highlighted how the theme, “Family: Tranquillity and Compassion,” aligns with the UAE’s designation of 2026 as the “Year of the Family,” focusing on the family’s central role in shaping national identity and its importance in building a cohesive society.
A significant highlight is Indonesia being named the “Guest of Honour” for the 20th edition, recognizing its rich experience in Islamic arts. Another key highlight is the launch of the “Al Burda Grant” program in collaboration with Nasheed artist Mustafa Atef, aimed at producing joint Nasheed works between the UAE and Indonesia.
Enhancements to the registration and submission process introduce greater flexibility and accessibility for creative talents worldwide, supporting broader participation across the award’s categories. Registration for the 20th edition will be open until 22nd August 2026, through the award’s official website. Submissions for the calligraphy and ornamentation categories will be accepted between 23rd August and 7th September 2026.