Nominations open for $1m Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026 edition

Abu Dhabi: The prestigious Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is inviting nominations for the 2026 edition.

Established in 2019, the award honours the visionary leadership and humanitarian legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The annual award, which includes a cash prize of $1 million, recognises individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to advancing human fraternity, promoting peaceful coexistence, and championing the values of tolerance and solidarity.

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity said that for the seventh consecutive year, the award continues its pioneering efforts to highlight inspiring figures who promote the values of peaceful coexistence.

“The award has gained significant global attention over the years, receiving thousands of nominations from around the world. This year, it aims to recognise new individuals and organisations driving meaningful change in promoting human fraternity.”

Eligible nominators, including academics, public figures, spiritual leaders, members of governments, and heads of non-governmental organisations, are invited to submit their nominations through the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity’s official website, until October 1, 2025.

6 years, 16 recipients

The award was established following the historic meeting in Abu Dhabi between Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church, and Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, during which the two prominent religious leaders co-signed the Document on Human Fraternity, a pivotal declaration in modern history that embodies the core values upheld by the award, which reflect Sheikh Zayed’s legacy of humanitarianism rooted in extending support to all, without distinction. In the past six editions, the award has so far recognised 16 recipients from around the globe for their contributions across various fields including accessible healthcare, sustainability, education, refugee support, community development, and empowerment of youth and women.

The call for nominations for the 2026 edition follows the award’s ceremony on February 4, recognising its 2025 honorees: Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley, SC, MP, for her advocacy of climate action; World Central Kitchen (WCK) – founded by Chef Jose Andres – for its unwavering commitment to providing food relief in conflict zones and in the aftermath of disasters; and 15-year-old health innovator Heman Bekele for his ambition and idea to save the lives of the most vulnerable and his vision of accessible and affordable healthcare through the development of a cost-effective soap to prevent and treat early-stage skin cancer.