The Ministry of Culture launched the Al Burda Award in AH 1425 / 2004 AD to commemorate the birthday of Prophet Mohammed (God’s blessing and peace be upon him). In its 19th edition, the award celebrates the theme of 'Social Cohesion and Unity', reflecting the noble example of the Prophet (PBUH) in fostering a united community rooted in tolerance, and coexistence. The theme for this edition is inspired by verse 13 of Surah Al-Hujurat ﴾ O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted ﴿
The Award reinforces the key role of the UAE in supporting Islamic art through its efforts to preserve the artistic heritage of the Islamic civilisation and promote outstanding artworks to a global audience.
HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Current edition
The 19th Edition of the Al Burda Award celebrates Islamic art and culture by honouring the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This edition aligns with the UAE’s announcement of 2025 as the ‘Year of Community’ and seeks to reinforce the noble example of the Prophet (PBUH) as a foundation for building a cohesive society rooted in the values of tolerance and coexistence.
This edition of the award is inspired by the verse ﴾ O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted ﴿ Surah Al-Hujurat - verse13. The verse emphasises that the diversity of peoples and tribes is not a cause for division, but rather a means for mutual acquaintance and integration within modern societies. It encourages mutual respect and international cooperation among different cultures and ethnicities.
Classical Poetry adheres to the rules of Arabic prosody, maintains a consistent rhyme, and follows a specific metrical pattern with a steady musical rhythm. Similarly, Nabati Poetry is composed in the dialects of the Arabian Peninsula. Finally, Free Verse allows young poets to express their creativity.
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Registration and Digital Artwork Submission via the form on the award website
04 Jun - 30 Sep 2025
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Shipping the Physical Artwork for Calligraphy and Ornamentation Categories to the Ministry
30 Sep - 13 Oct 2025
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