UNESCO Honours Sheikha Bodour for Education and Culture

H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi has been appointed as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture. This international recognition honours her long-standing efforts to promote publishing, literacy, and educational development around the world. Through her various leadership roles, Sheikha Bodour has become a strong advocate for learning, creativity, and access to knowledge as key drivers of sustainable progress.

As the President of the American University of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, Sheikha Bodour has played a vital role in supporting education and the book industry. She believes that education and access to books are fundamental to building peaceful and progressive societies. Upon her appointment, she said, “Books shape minds, connect communities, and underpin knowledge-based societies. Promoting literacy and access to culture is not a luxury—it is a necessity.”

In her statement, Sheikha Bodour highlighted that this new role strengthens her dedication to empowering people through education and culture. She expressed her eagerness to work with UNESCO to promote literacy and creative expression across the world. Her commitment aligns closely with UNESCO’s mission to make education accessible to everyone and to preserve cultural diversity.

Sheikha Bodour is widely recognised as one of the most influential figures in the global publishing industry. She made history by becoming the first Arab woman to serve as President of the International Publishers Association (IPA) since its establishment in 1896. During her tenure, she focused on promoting freedom to publish, inclusivity, and equal access to knowledge, ensuring that the publishing world reflects global diversity.

As Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, Sheikha Bodour has transformed the publishing landscape in the UAE and the Arab region. Kalimat Group is now one of the most respected publishing houses in the Middle East. She also established key cultural organisations such as the Emirates Publishers Association, the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), and Knowledge Without Borders, each dedicated to promoting reading and cultural growth.

Under her leadership as Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, the Sharjah International Book Fair has grown into one of the world’s most significant literary events. Sharjah has also been the Guest of Honour at major global book fairs in cities like Rabat, Seoul, London, and Frankfurt, highlighting the emirate’s strong cultural influence.

Sheikha Bodour also led the Sharjah World Book Capital 2019 initiative, which transformed the emirate into a global hub for books and creative dialogue. This initiative led to the creation of the House of Wisdom, an iconic library and cultural centre promoting knowledge, innovation, and community learning.

Beyond promoting literacy, Sheikha Bodour has worked to improve access to books for people with visual impairments, helping the UAE join the Marrakesh Treaty. She also supported the restoration of Beirut’s public libraries after the devastating 2020 port explosion, reflecting her commitment to rebuilding communities through culture and education.

As the Founder of PublisHer, Sheikha Bodour has united more than 1,000 women professionals in the global publishing industry. The platform aims to advance gender equality, inclusion, and diversity in creative fields, empowering women to take leadership roles and shape the future of publishing.

In recognition of her remarkable contributions to education and women’s empowerment, the University of Leicester awarded Sheikha Bodour the title of Honorary Professor, the first in its history. This honour reflects her global influence in promoting literacy and equal opportunities through education and culture.

Her appointment as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture reaffirms her lifelong dedication to books, knowledge, and creativity. Through her work, Sheikha Bodour continues to champion the values of learning, innovation, and cultural understanding — shaping a world where education and literature remain powerful tools for progress.