Organizers of the Abu Dhabi Shakti Awards announced that entries are now open for the 2026 prize honoring original literary works.
The call gives authors a chance to showcase their writing on an international stage and highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a cultural hub. By recognizing works from the past three years, the awards aim to encourage fresh voices across the region.
Entries are accepted for original literary works published between 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2025[1]. The competition is for the Abu Dhabi Shakti Awards 2026[2].
The organizers said the submission portal will remain active for several weeks, allowing ample time for writers to prepare their manuscripts. Detailed guidelines on eligibility, format and judging criteria are posted on the official awards website.
The prize includes a cash award, a trophy, and the opportunity for the winning author to present the work at a ceremony in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The event is expected to draw literary figures, publishers, and media from across the Middle East and beyond.
Industry observers said the awards could boost sales and translation deals for emerging authors, as past laureates have secured publishing contracts after gaining visibility through the program.
Writers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, provided their work meets the originality requirement and falls within the specified publication window. Collaborative projects, such as co‑authored novels, are also eligible under the same criteria.
The deadline for submissions has not yet been fixed, but the organizers said a final date will be communicated via email and social media channels.
The Abu Dhabi Shakti Awards were established to celebrate literary excellence and foster cultural exchange between the Gulf region and the broader global community. This year’s focus on recent publications reflects a desire to capture contemporary themes and storytelling styles.
What this means: The opening of entries signals a renewed investment in literary arts by the United Arab Emirates, offering writers a prestigious platform that could accelerate their careers and broaden the reach of South Asian and Middle Eastern narratives worldwide.
“Entries are now open for the Abu Dhabi Shakti Awards 2026.”
The launch of the 2026 Abu Dhabi Shakti Awards provides a high‑profile avenue for writers whose recent works meet the eligibility window, potentially increasing their exposure, fostering cross‑regional literary dialogue, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a leading cultural centre.
