Abu Dhabi: New awards to encourage and recognise Emirati writers were revealed on Thursday at a press conference.
Under the patronage of Shaikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the National Media Council (NMC), the award has three categories: best novel, best short novel and special writer. All work should be submitted in Arabic.
The special writer award will be nominated by a panel based on the current impact of the work on the UAE’s culture and literature.
Organised and hosted by twofour54, the award aims to increase awareness about the importance of literature as well as encourage a culture of reading and writing in the UAE.
“The Emirates Novel Awards will introduce the work of Emirati writers to a growing audience, while encouraging others to contribute to the UAE’s literary history. This award will help participants to analyse their culture and appreciate knowledge about literature to promote powerful writing,” said Noora Al Kaabi, chief executive officer at twofour 54.
The Emirates Novel Awards were revealed by Jamal Al Shehi, secretary-general of the awards.
“This exceptional award programme is the first of its kind in the UAE. The award will encourage, recognise and promote talented Emirati writers. The participated work and books will be featured at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair in November in order to develop the skills of Emirati talents and create a sustainable media industry in the region,” said Al Shehi.
The shortlisted novels will be announced online, allowing the public to vote. All winners will be announced during a ceremony held later this year.
Various workshops and seminars will also be held to nurture writing and reading skills.
Additionally, several professional writers from various genres will be attending forums aimed at polishing Emiratis’ knowledge of literature.
Novels submitted should be minimum of 40,000 words, short novels should be between 17,000 and 40,000 words.
More information about the award is available online at www.emiratesnovelaward.com
