Mohammed bin Rashid: Cultural projects shape educated individuals

April 03, 2026 / 8:05 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge has set a historic milestone, attracting 40,286,428 students from 60 countries, including 76,062 students of determination—a 24% increase from the ninth edition. A total of 138,426 schools and 161,507 supervisors are participating, reflecting the initiative’s growing impact across the Arab world.

Leadership endorsement

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, praised the initiative’s scale and cultural significance, highlighting its role in fostering educated, aware individuals equipped with future-ready skills.

Initiative’s vision and impact

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), emphasised that the Challenge promotes reading habits, strengthens Arabic language skills, and encourages innovation. Over ten editions, more than 203 million students, 1.065 million schools, and 1.038 million supervisors have participated. A UNESCO study found that 93% of students improved their Arabic, 96% reported increased self-confidence, and the number of students reading over 50 books annually grew from 4% to 10%.

Competition structure

Country-level qualifying rounds are underway, with champions advancing to Dubai for the finals. Students are assessed on reading, summarizing, and comprehending 50 books, progressing from class to school, zone, and country levels. Winners receive awards ranging from AED 500,000 for the top Arab Reading Champion to AED 50,000 for third place in various categories, including People of Determination, community, schools, and supervisors.

Historical growth

Since its launch in 2015, participation has increased by over 1,019%, from 3.6 million students in the first edition to over 40 million in the latest edition. Previous champions include twins Bisan and Baylasan Kouka from Tunisia and Maria Hassan Ojail from Iraq.

Mission and goals

The Arab Reading Challenge aims to instill a lasting passion for reading, strengthen comprehension and expression, nurture love for the Arabic language, and promote cultural awareness, tolerance, and coexistence among young Arabs.