Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The Sard Al Thahab Award, launched by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), to honour storytellers and narrators of literature and folktales in the Arab world and beyond, reflects Abu Dhabi's steadfast commitment to fostering Arabic language, literature and cultural discourse.
In a statement, Dr Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) at the Department of Culture and Tourism, said that the Sard Al Thahab Award has evolved into a powerful platform for cultural and intellectual exchange, championing exceptional voices from across the Arab world and beyond.
"It stands as an enabler of contemporary Arabic narrative, acknowledging important contributions to modern literary work," Dr Tamim said in the statement.
The award recently announced the winners of its third edition, recognising nine winners from the UAE, Morocco, Egypt, Oman, and Kuwait across its categories.
"The award's name 'Sard Al Thahab', which means 'the Golden Narrative', is inspired by the timeless wisdom and poetic brilliance of our nation's late Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Sheikh Zayed masterfully used 'Sard' to signify the richness and purity of storytelling, and the depth, integrity, and structural coherence of every narrative contribution," Dr Tamim said.
The award encapsulates Abu Dhabi's commitment to honouring creativity across diverse narrative fields.
"From cherished popular tales and vibrant oral traditions to rigorous, cutting-edge research, the award celebrates the narrators who are the custodians of our cultural memory. It also profoundly reflects our dedication to the rich Emirati narrative tradition, rooted in tolerance, coexistence, and an unwavering faith in humanity."
The award, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, aims to integrate the distinct Emirati and Arab cultural identity into society's living memory, amplifying it across generations.
"This mission aligns perfectly with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre's broader role in fostering communication and strengthening the Arabic language as a powerful medium for arts, science, and knowledge," he said.
This year, the award witnessed notable participation from 37 countries, compared with 22 countries in the first edition, marking a 68% increase since its launch in 2023.
"The award's remarkable growth solidifies its position as a leading platform, not only reviving Arab narrative heritage but also inspiring creators and researchers to reinterpret this legacy through modern, innovative forms for our contemporary era," he said.
Dr Tamim described the winners of the Sard Al Thahab as "guardians of our culture".
"Their works add immense value to the sustainable development of the Arabic language, ensuring our connection to our roots and enriching the legacy passed to future generations."
