Sobha Realty Endowment Supports Arab Reading Challenge Goals

In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, Sobha Realty announced a significant contribution of AED500 million to support the Arab Reading Challenge initiative. The contribution aims to strengthen reading habits, knowledge acquisition, and the Arabic language among students.

The Arab Reading Challenge encourages students to read and learn as part of their daily routine while promoting cultural identity. The initiative is also aligned with the mission of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) to positively impact Arab societies and empower young generations to advance Arab civilisation.

The contribution was formalized during the signing of an agreement by Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of MBRGI, and PNC Menon, Founder and Chairman of Sobha Realty. The ceremony coincided with the crowning of the 2025 Arab Reading Champion at the Dubai World Trade Centre, marking a milestone in the initiative’s journey.

Under the agreement, Sobha Realty will create an endowment in Dubai, with proceeds dedicated to the Arab Reading Challenge. This funding will support strategic plans including knowledge and cultural programmes, Arabic-language preservation projects, and initiatives that empower Arab youth to pursue knowledge, modern sciences, and educational growth.

Mohammad Al Gergawi highlighted that the Arab Reading Challenge has made significant progress since its launch in 2015, reflecting H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision. It aims to inspire new generations to read, nurture talent, and provide a learning environment where students can actively contribute to society and drive positive change.

PNC Menon expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the initiative, emphasizing the importance of nurturing educated and informed generations. He highlighted Sobha Realty’s commitment to social responsibility, enabling students to access knowledge and develop skills necessary for academic and life success.

Since its inception, the Arab Reading Challenge has attracted over 163 million students, with participation growing from 3.6 million in the first edition to over 32 million in the ninth edition. The program involved more than 132,000 schools and over 161,000 supervisors from 50 countries, reflecting its widespread influence and success.

A major milestone was reached in December 2024, when the Arab League encouraged member states to integrate the challenge into national curricula. The initiative awards AED11 million annually, totaling AED99 million since 2015. Awards include AED500,000 for the Arab Reading Champion and AED1,000,000 for the Best School.

The Arab Reading Challenge remains the largest Arab literacy initiative, aiming to instill a passion for reading, enhance comprehension and self-expression, and encourage students to engage with global knowledge. It also promotes cultural understanding, exposing students to the traditions and beliefs of other societies while strengthening Arabic as a vessel of Arab heritage.

Sobha Realty’s AED500 million endowment underscores the strong collaboration between the private sector and MBRGI. The initiative continues to inspire young Arabs to read, learn, and develop their potential, ensuring a future rooted in knowledge, cultural pride, and lifelong learning.