Recognition honours innovative cultural initiatives strengthening engagement with Arabic language, literature and heritage
Sharjah, 4 November 2026
House of Wisdom (HoW) in Sharjah has received the Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA) in the Best Campaign Promoting Cultural Identity and the Arabic Language category at the award’s 13th edition. The award recognises HoW’s innovative communication campaigns and cultural initiatives that celebrate Arab identity, promote the Arabic language and strengthen public engagement with the region’s literary and cultural heritage.
Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, received the award from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, during a ceremony organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau on Monday, 2 November.
Commenting on the recognition, Marwa Al Aqroubi said: "We are delighted to receive this award, which reflects House of Wisdom’s commitment to promoting the Arabic language as a vital part of our cultural identity. This has been central to our work since our establishment, guided by the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who has placed culture and knowledge at the heart of the emirate’s development.
“Preserving cultural heritage also means finding meaningful ways to connect new generations with their history and civilisation. Through our exhibitions, cultural programmes and creative activities, we bring together art, storytelling and modern technologies to create contemporary experiences that engage audiences of different ages and interests.”
She added: “This accolade inspires us to build on our efforts through initiatives that bring audiences closer to the Arabic language and their cultural identity, while further strengthening Sharjah’s position as a leading hub for culture, knowledge and cross-cultural dialogue. ”
The 13th edition of SGCA saw 433 submissions from 31 countries across four continents advance beyond the initial screening stage. House of Wisdom was one of three shortlisted entities in the Best Campaign Promoting Cultural Identity and the Arabic Language category.
House of Wisdom’s submission highlighted a range of initiatives designed to bring the Arabic language and cultural heritage closer to contemporary audiences. Among the most notable was the “The Dice Player: Mahmoud Darwish” exhibition, which explored the life and literary legacy of the Palestinian poet through immersive audiovisual experiences. The exhibition attracted more than 25,000 visitors over four months before evolving into a travelling international exhibition from its home in Sharjah.
Through its year-round exhibitions, cultural programmes and community initiatives, House of Wisdom continues to engage diverse audiences, particularly children and young people, through interactive experiences that encourage greater appreciation of the Arabic language and Arab cultural heritage.
Launched by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau in 2012, the Sharjah Government Communication Award recognises innovative achievements in government and institutional communication, with a focus on initiatives that deliver measurable impact, build trust, raise awareness and encourage community participation.
