Arab Reading Challenge Inspires Students Across Arab World

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), highlighted the strong vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for the Arab Reading Challenge over the past ten years. He said this support has made the Challenge a key platform for promoting reading and Arabic language skills among young generations. Al Gergawi emphasized that reading encourages conscious thinking and helps build a better future.

Al Gergawi spoke at a press conference at the Dubai World Trade Centre following the crowning of the 2025 Arab Reading Challenge champions. The event featured champions Bisan and Baylasan Kouka from Tunisia, and Outstanding Supervisor Sahar Misbah from Egypt. He discussed the Challenge’s achievements, its cultural impact, and its role in promoting Arabic language and literacy across the region.

Since its launch in 2015, the Challenge has significantly increased reading among Arab students. Reading time outside school grew from less than one hour per week to more than four hours, around 200 hours annually. The average number of books read per student rose from 8 to over 40, and students reading more than 50 books per year increased by 147 percent. Daily or near-daily reading also rose by 122 percent.

The Challenge improved students’ Arabic language skills, including comprehension, vocabulary, and writing style. It also strengthened pride in Arab culture and identity, with 71 percent of students feeling more connected to their heritage. Students explored diverse reading domains, such as fiction, science, history, and self-development, fostering broader knowledge and curiosity.

The study highlighted the growing use of digital books alongside traditional print. Teachers, families, and peers play an important role in encouraging intensive reading, with teachers being the most supportive drivers of student engagement in reading activities.

Over nine editions, the Challenge attracted more than 163 million students, over 927,000 school entries, and more than 877,000 reading supervisors. Participation grew from 3.6 million students in 2015 to over 32 million in 2025, spanning 50 countries. In the 9th edition, over 132,000 schools and 161,000 supervisors took part.

The Arab Reading Challenge provides AED11 million in annual prizes, totaling AED99 million since 2015. Major awards include AED500,000 for the Arab Reading Champion, AED1,000,000 for Best School, AED300,000 for Outstanding Supervisor, AED200,000 for People of Determination Champion, and AED100,000 for Community Champion. In 2024, the Arab League encouraged Arab education ministries to adopt the Challenge into curricula, highlighting its significance in promoting Arabic language and heritage.

The Arab Reading Challenge has become the largest Arab literacy initiative, promoting reading, improving Arabic language skills, and fostering cultural pride among youth. Through its continued support, the Challenge is shaping future generations equipped with knowledge, curiosity, and a love for the Arabic language.