Abu dhabi: The Sharjah Award in Public Finance, in collaboration with the Arab Administrative Development Organisation (ARADO) of the League of Arab States, has officially launched its fourth cycle (2026-2027) during a ceremony held at ARADO headquarters in Cairo. This marks the beginning of a new phase of institutional and individual excellence across the Arab world.
According to Emirates News Agency, the new cycle reinforces the Award's position as a leading Arab platform for promoting excellence in public finance, encouraging innovation, facilitating the exchange of best practices, and enhancing the efficiency of public financial management. It also supports institutional performance, financial sustainability, and the aspirations of Arab governments to build more efficient and innovative public sectors.
The launch ceremony was attended by Dr. Waleed Al Sayegh, Director-General of the Sharjah Finance Department and Chairman of the Award's Board of Trustees; Dr. Nasser Al Qahtani, Director-General of the Arab Administrative Development Organisation and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees; members of the Board of Trustees; and senior officials, experts, and specialists in public administration and public finance from across the Arab region.
Prior to the launch ceremony, the Board of Trustees convened to approve the Fourth Cycle Guide following a comprehensive review of the Award's categories, evaluation criteria, participation framework, and electronic submission system. This reflects the Board's commitment to continuously enhancing the Award and ensuring its readiness to receive nominations from across the Arab world in line with international best practices in award management.
The Board also reviewed the implementation roadmap for the new cycle, covering awareness campaigns, registration, introductory workshops, submission of nominations, evaluation and judging processes, approval of results, and the recognition of winners. These measures reinforce the Award's commitment to transparency, governance, and excellence throughout every stage of the Award process.
The launch event highlighted the Award's vision, mission, and key updates for the fourth cycle, including its categories, eligibility criteria, and participation process. A documentary film showcasing the Award was presented, followed by an open discussion with participants, underscoring its role in promoting excellence, innovation, and institutional and financial performance across Arab government entities.
On this occasion, Dr. Waleed Al Sayegh stated, "The launch of the fourth cycle marks a new milestone in the Award's journey and reflects our continued commitment to advancing excellence in public finance, fostering innovation, and strengthening public financial management across the Arab world. This initiative stems from the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to promote a culture of excellence, invest in knowledge, and build government institutions that are more efficient, transparent, and sustainable."
He added that the enhancements in the Award Guide and evaluation criteria are designed to keep pace with developments in government financial management, strengthening transparency and objectivity in the evaluation process, and creating a competitive environment that encourages institutions and individuals to present innovative initiatives.
Dr. Nasser Al Qahtani emphasized the significance of the Award as a leading initiative in public administration and finance in the Arab world. He highlighted its role in promoting excellence, encouraging innovation, and motivating institutions to adopt best practices in financial management.
The fourth cycle comprises 24 award categories, including excellence in financial management, digital financial systems, financial innovation, and more. The Award adopts a comprehensive evaluation framework based on clear scientific criteria, ensuring transparency and fairness in the assessment process.
The Award will begin accepting nominations from 15th July 2026, with submissions open until the end of December 2026. A comprehensive awareness campaign, including roadshows and training programmes, will support prospective applicants in preparing high-quality submissions, with previous Award winners serving as Ambassadors to promote the initiative further.
Building on the experience of previous cycles, the fourth cycle is expected to mark a new chapter in the Award's evolution, meeting the aspirations of future participants and continuing to enhance public finance across the Arab world.