Dubai Press Club Announces Open Nominations for the Arab Media Award

The Arab Media Award has opened applications for its 25th edition, marking a significant milestone for the region's most prestigious journalism recognition program. Sponsored by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, the award continues to set professional standards across Arab media while adapting to rapid technological changes in the industry.

The Dubai Press Club announced that nominations are now open for both main categories: the Arab Journalism Award and the Visual Media Award. The deadline for submissions is January 17, 2026. This year's edition carries special weight as it celebrates a quarter-century of recognizing excellence in Arab media.

Dr. Maitha Bouhamid, Secretary General of the Arab Media Award, said the 25th edition represents a defining moment for this leading Arab media event. "The award has established a comprehensive system of professional values based on integrity and transparency over 25 years, earning it a prestigious position across the Arab world," she explained.

The timing reflects broader shifts in the media landscape. Rapid technological development has introduced new tools and methods that are reshaping excellence standards in journalism. The award has consistently evolved to keep pace with these changes while maintaining its core mission of promoting quality journalism.

Mariam Al Mulla, Director of Dubai Press Club, emphasized how the award has maintained its position as the Arab world's premier media excellence celebration. "The award promotes a culture of creativity in Arab media and sends an important message to new generations of journalists that excellence begins with ideas and leadership is built in environments that value informed opinion and creative thinking," she said.

The competition spans comprehensive categories. The Arab Journalism Award includes political journalism, economic journalism, investigative reporting, and best columnist. The Visual Media Award covers best economic program, social program, cultural program, documentary work, and sports program. There's also a special "Media Personality of the Year" category for distinguished Arab media figures.

Since its launch in 1999, the award has honored hundreds of prominent figures in journalism and media across the Arab world. It has recognized both established institutions with long histories and newer organizations that have proven their worth in delivering distinguished media content.

For media professionals and organizations, this represents more than recognition. The award serves as a benchmark for professional standards and innovation in a region where media plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. The judging process follows strict criteria based on integrity and transparency, with winners announced during the Arab Media Summit in Dubai.

The 25-year journey shows how the award has evolved from an annual tradition into a strategic project aimed at encouraging high-quality journalism. As Jasim Al Shamsi, Director of the Arab Media Award, noted, "Today, with the 25th edition, the award is no longer just a mirror reflecting the reality of Arab media, but has become a main driver pushing it toward more innovative horizons."

Applications are open to individuals and media institutions from across the Arab world through the dedicated award website. The selection process involves careful screening and judging according to precise criteria, maintaining the award's reputation for fairness and professional excellence.