Registration Opens for 18th Edition of Al Burda Award Celebrating Islamic Art and Culture

The Ministry of Culture has announced the opening of registration for the 18th edition of the Al Burda Award, an esteemed accolade recognising creativity in Islamic art and culture, while paying tribute to the Arabic language and its pioneers.

This year, the award explores the theme of ‘Al Noor’ (The Light), inspired by verse 15 of Surah Al-Ma'ida: {There has come to you from Allah a light and a clear Book}. This verse refers to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the Holy Quran, emphasizing the divine message that illuminates the path of humanity.

His Excellency Sheikh Salem Bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, stated: "Since its inauguration in 2004, Al Burda Award has showcased the best of Islamic arts from around the world in the UAE. The awards celebrate the preservation of Islamic cultural heritage through diverse works by global artists."

The Al Burda Award features three main categories: Poetry, Arabic Calligraphy, and Ornamentation, with new sub-categories this year: Classical, Nabati, and free verse poetry; Classical, Contemporary, and Typography Design in calligraphy; and Traditional and Contemporary ornamentation. The top five winners in each main category will share a prize of AED 210,000, while winners in the new sub-categories will receive AED 160,000 each.

These new categories aim to encourage youth participation and innovation, merging contemporary art methods with traditional Islamic arts through modern technology.

Poets, artists, and calligraphers interested in participating can register at Al Burda Award and submit their works electronically until September 30, 2024. The Ministry will accept artworks for Calligraphy and Ornamentation categories from October 1-15, 2024.