Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohamed Al-Qasimi named Cultural Personality of the year

The Secretary General of Sheikh Zayed Book Award, Mr. Rashed Al Oraimi, announced on the 16th of January 2010 , that His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohamed Al-Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Sharjah, is named the Cultural Personality of the year 2010. The Award honors prominent figures for their unique contributions to the advancement of the Arabic culture, and for works that portray tolerance and promote peaceful coexistence. In Mr. Al Oraimi's statement, the Award's Higher Council decision came in recognition of His Highness's generous contributions in promoting the Arabic culture and nourishing the Arabic Literature in the ِArab World. Throughout three decades, H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan has formulated the cultural scheme of the Emirate of Sharjah driven by the fundamental role of culture in the development of the community, and ordered the establishment of several cultural institutions in view of fulfilling his vision. The massive cultural projects in the Emirate of Sharjah support conservation of cultural heritage and active interaction with other cultures. In addition, His Highness has written several books in history, social sciences and humanities. The Sheikh Zayed Book Award recognizes cultural achievements across one of the broadest and most diverse areas of any literary awards internationally. Besides the Cultural Personality of the Year Prize, the Award includes eight more categories including: Contribution to the Development of Nations; Children’s Literature; Young Author; Translation; Literature; Fine Arts; Best Technology in the Field of Culture; and Publishing and Distribution. The winners of the rest of the Award's categories will be announced in batches throughout the coming weeks, to be followed by a ceremonial event to celebrate the winning achievements on Wednesday 3rd of March 2010 at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, parallel to the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.