The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has extended the application period for the fifth edition of the Kanz Al Jeel Award until 31 July 2026, in order to give more creatives the opportunity to participate in the award.

Since its launch in 2021, Kanz Al Jeel has encouraged creativity across different generations and supported the cultural landscape, while honouring creative works in the fields of folk literature and Nabati poetry.

To apply, candidates should select the category that best fits their works and complete the nomination form available on the ALC website (https://alcawards.ae?award=kanz). Enquiries may also be directed via email to [email protected]. As an exception for the current edition, applications must be accompanied by digital copies (PDF) of the nominated works, along with a CV outlining the applicant’s academic and creative background, a passport copy, and a personal photograph.

Inspired by the thought and poetry of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, the award sets the following general participation criteria: Nominees must have made a significant contribution to the local and Arab poetic movement; nominated works must offer a genuine addition to human culture and knowledge, characterised by originality, creativity, and innovation; and they must be written in Arabic, with the exception of the Translation and Studies & Research categories, which accept entries in other languages. Candidates may submit only one work in one category per cycle, provided that the same work is not submitted to any other award in the same year.

Since its initial launch in 2021, the award has established itself as one of the most prominent specialised cultural awards, attracting international participation from approximately 35 countries around the world.

Through successive editions, Kanz Al Jeel has inspired poets to create outstanding works of Nabati poetry and folk literature, honoured distinguished experiences in this field, spotlighted the creative minds behind them, and contributed to publishing and promoting the winning works. This reflects the vision of the UAE leadership to consolidate national identity, revive and preserve heritage, and honour creativity and creative minds.

The award is presented annually across six categories. The Poetry Matching category is dedicated to emulating verses from a selected poem by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, while adhering to the original poem’s idea, poetic purpose, metre, rhyme, subject, and all the essential components of the art of poetic matching. For this edition, the selected poem is ‘Ya Dhi‘dhagh Al-Hibaayib’.

The Poetic Publications category is awarded to a Nabati poetry collection distinguished by originality in form and content, and represents a notable addition to this poetic genre. The Translation category is awarded to the work that best translates Sheikh Zayed’s poetry into another language, while the Arts category recognises an artwork that uses visual and technological tools to embody a verse from his poetry, including painting, calligraphy, film, music, and songs.

The Studies and Research category recognises academic studies on Nabati poetry and folk literature that address the styles and content of this poetic genre through scholarly methodologies. Finally, the Creative Personality category honours an individual who has made significant creative contributions to reviving, studying,  or promoting Nabati poetry. This category may also honour an institution that has rendered significant services to Nabati poetry, and strengthened its presence in the Arab cultural landscape.