Sharjah Illuminates Paris with its UNESCO-Arab Culture Award

This year’s honourees were Egyptian artist Aya Tarek and Ali Gi Toure, a heritage activist from Mali.  

The ceremony, held at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, was attended by H.E. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of Sharjah’s Department of Culture; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department; H.E. Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France; H.E. Ambassador Ali Al-Haj Al Ali, UAE Permanent Representative to UNESCO; Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO; and a distinguished audience of cultural figures, artists, ambassadors, and diplomats.  

In his address, Abdullah Al Owais highlighted the long-standing partnership between Sharjah and UNESCO, which has resulted in numerous humanitarian and cultural projects. He said:  

"The Sharjah-UNESCO Prize for Arab Culture is now in its 25th year since its inception in 2001. It was established under the directive of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in celebration of Sharjah being named the Arab Cultural Capital in 1998. These years have witnessed remarkable cultural collaboration between the UAE and UNESCO, producing initiatives that serve humanity."  

Expressing his pride in the continuation of the award's legacy, Al Owais added:  

"Each edition of the award renews our joy and pride in its enduring mission and in seeing creative thinkers and innovators ascend to its stage of recognition."  

He also highlighted Sharjah's cultural milestones and conveyed the greetings and best wishes of H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah to the award recipients. He stated:  

"Since 1998, Sharjah has embarked on a new phase in its journey to highlight Arab culture and civilisation. H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah firmly believes in the transformative power of culture as a bridge connecting nations. His literary contributions and personal participation in international cultural and scientific events underscore his dedication to fostering such connections. On this occasion, I am honoured to convey the greetings of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, along with his wishes for your continued success."  

Gabriela Ramos began her speech by discussing UNESCO's collaborations with countries worldwide. She emphasised that initiatives showcasing creativity and culture pave the way for meaningful global progress. She praised Sharjah’s partnership with UNESCO, describing it as a unique cultural and humanitarian model, and credited H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah for his visionary leadership.  

Gabriela Ramos emphasised the importance of the award reaching its 20th edition, noting that this milestone in a globally recognised and prestigious award, celebrated with wide official and creative interest, reflects its profound impact on multiple levels. She described the award as an integral part of UNESCO’s programmes, spotlighting creativity as a civilisational and human value that brings light to the world.  

Congratulating the award winners, Ramos expressed her delight at their recognition, referring to the award as one sponsored by a “cultured and noble ruler.” She expressed hope that creativity would continue to serve as the ideal medium and ultimate goal for human connection.  

In his remarks, H.E. Ali Al-Haj Al Ali, the UAE’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, reflected on the award’s nearly 30-year history, saying it has become a symbol of pride in Arab culture and heritage, as well as a tool for strengthening cultural dialogue and promoting knowledge exchange among peoples and cultures. He noted that the ceremony underscores the value of Arab culture and fosters human connectivity through arts and knowledge.  

Al Ali further stated that the Sharjah-UNESCO Prize for Arab Culture is one of the most prominent collaborative cultural initiatives, representing the partnership between the UAE and UNESCO. He added, "We must commend the visionary leadership of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, whose foresight laid the cornerstone for this award, cementing Sharjah’s pioneering role in preserving and supporting Arab heritage."  

Highlighting the award’s impact, Al Ali said, "Over the years, the award has honoured 40 exceptional creatives who have made significant contributions to Arab culture. This year, it celebrates two new laureates who join a distinguished group of individuals who have enriched the Arab cultural landscape and fostered bridges of understanding between global cultures." He congratulated the winners on their well-deserved recognition.  

Celebrating the 20th Sharjah-UNESCO Prize for Arab Culture  

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Abdullah Al Owais and Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, accompanied by Gabriela Ramos, presented the 20th Sharjah-UNESCO Prize for Arab Culture to Aya Tarek, who received the award for her contributions as an Arab personality, and to Ali Gi Elven Toure, who was recognised as a non-Arab laureate.  

About the Winners  

Egyptian artist Aya Tarek is a visual artist and cultural activist who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Alexandria University. She has pioneered innovative mediums in virtual reality and models for workshops and art residencies, while staying deeply connected to her artistic heritage. Her artistic journey includes numerous international contributions.  

Malian cultural heritage activist and documentary filmmaker Ali Gi Elven Toure has a strong focus on the Arab cultural heritage of Timbuktu, a historically significant Islamic capital in West Africa, often called the “Jewel of the Sahara.” In 2021, he founded the Timbuktu Film Festival, further showcasing his commitment to cultural preservation and promotion.  

About the Award 

Established in 1998, the Sharjah-UNESCO Prize for Arab Culture annually honours two individuals, groups, or organisations whose work and outstanding achievements have expanded the appreciation and knowledge of Arab art and culture worldwide.