Sharjah Translation Award Opens Submissions to Boost Arabic Literature

Sharjah is once again taking a significant step to promote Arabic literature worldwide. The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has announced the opening of submissions for the 8th edition of the Sharjah Translation Award, also known as the Turjuman Award. This prestigious award encourages international publishers to translate important works by Arab authors into different languages, helping the rich culture and literature of the Arab world reach readers across the globe.

The Turjuman Award carries a total prize value of Dh1.4 million, making it one of the most significant awards for literary translation in the region. It recognises the best foreign-language translation of an original Arabic literary work. By doing so, it strengthens the global visibility of Arabic literature and fosters a greater understanding of Arab culture and creativity among international readers.

Strengthening Cultural Understanding

Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, highlighted the importance of translation as a bridge between cultures. He said that translation plays a crucial role in promoting understanding, respect, and dialogue among different communities. “Translation is an essential force in fostering shared understanding between civilisations,” he said. “It allows readers worldwide to explore Arab creativity in their own language, helping to connect cultures and spread knowledge.”

Al Ameri also praised the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, for their continued efforts to elevate Arabic literature on the global stage. Under their leadership, the Turjuman Award has become a platform that brings together publishers, translators, and authors, creating lasting partnerships that benefit the international literary community.

How the Award Works

The Turjuman Award is open to publishers who have completed the first official translation of a distinguished Arabic literary work into a foreign language. Submissions require four hard copies of the translated book, one copy of the original Arabic edition, and a 500-word summary. The summary can be written in Arabic or the language of the translation and should explain the author’s background, the content of the work, and its cultural and literary significance.

In addition, entrants must provide documentation proving translation and publication rights and evidence of copyright clearance. This ensures that every submission meets the highest standards of legal and ethical publishing.

Recognising Every Contributor

The award celebrates all contributors involved in bringing an Arabic literary work to readers worldwide. The translator receives AED 100,000 for their efforts. The rest of the prize fund is divided between the publishers: 30% goes to the original Arabic publisher, and 70% to the international publisher responsible for the translation. This distribution highlights the importance of every participant in the literary and translation process.

Submission Timeline and Announcement

Publishers interested in participating must submit their works by September 15. Winners of the 8th edition of the Turjuman Award will be announced during the opening ceremony of the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair.

The award is not just about financial recognition; it is a celebration of the power of literature to build bridges across cultures. Every translated book becomes a tool for intercultural dialogue, helping readers everywhere gain a deeper appreciation of Arab knowledge, stories, and creativity.

Promoting Arabic Literature Globally

Over the years, the Turjuman Award has successfully helped Arabic literature gain recognition and readership beyond the Arab world. By motivating translators and international publishers, it ensures that seminal works of Arab authors are available in multiple languages, broadening their impact and fostering global cultural exchange.

Ahmed Al Ameri summed up the mission of the award, saying, “Every translated work stands as a bridge that links Arab culture to global communities. Translation is not just about words; it is about sharing ideas, traditions, and knowledge. This award reflects our dedication to making Arabic literature a worldwide treasure.”

The Sharjah Translation Award continues to inspire publishers, translators, and authors to participate in a shared mission: bringing the richness of Arabic literature to readers across continents. It is a reminder that literature is a universal language that can connect hearts and minds, break cultural barriers, and create mutual understanding among nations.