Sharjah: The UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) is actively accepting submissions for the 2025 Creative Writing Competition, an initiative under the 'Read, Dream, Create' campaign. The contest invites children and young people aged 6 to 18 from across the UAE to express their creativity through storytelling in Arabic, aiming to develop their writing skills in a nurturing environment.
According to Emirates News Agency, the competition provides young participants the chance to explore their storytelling talents and engage with literature by blending imagination and critical thinking. It is designed to strengthen the connection between young writers and the Arabic language, fostering a love for reading and inspiring literary exploration.
Since its inception in 2013, the competition has become a highly anticipated event among children and teens. It not only discovers new talent but also nurtures it by highlighting exceptional entries, encouraging many participants to take steps toward publication.
Submissions are open until 31st July, with entries required to be in Arabic and original works of the participants. Stories may include illustrations and must be submitted in Microsoft Word format along with a completed electronic application form via the provided link: https://uaebby.org.ae/ar/rdc/competition.
The contest is categorized into three age groups: 6-9 years, 10-12 years, and 13-18 years. Winners in each category will receive AED3,000, a collection of books, and a certificate of appreciation. Their stories will also be published on the campaign's digital platform.
The competition is part of UAEBBY's mission to instill a love for the Arabic language in the younger generation and to promote writing as a means of free expression and independent thought.