Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Book Award has announced the winner of the Cultural Personality of the Year category for its 18th edition. Casa Árabe in Spain received this prestigious honor for its exceptional efforts in fostering connections between Arab and Spanish cultures and promoting Arabic language and culture in Europe and Latin America.
The decision to award Casa Árabe was unanimous, with the Award’s Board of Trustees and Scientific Committee recognizing its success in promoting cross-cultural dialogue. Casa Árabe has been a welcoming space for Arab writers, artists, and thinkers to engage with Spanish Arabists, promoting an environment of tolerance and cultural exchange.
HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Tourism and Culture – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the importance of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in promoting Arab cultural heritage globally. He praised Casa Árabe for its role in bridging cultural gaps and fostering mutual understanding between Spain and the Arab world.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre and Secretary-General of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award, extended congratulations to Casa Árabe for its well-deserved recognition. He highlighted Casa Árabe’s integral role in enhancing cultural relations between Spain and the Arab world through various social, cultural, educational, and economic activities.
Casa Árabe serves as a hub for dialogue and interaction, aiming to raise awareness of Islamic and Arab culture while fostering collaboration among individuals from diverse backgrounds. It plays a significant role in promoting Arab culture globally, showcasing its richness across various domains and emphasizing the beauty of the Arabic language as a tool for connecting people.
Established in 2006, Casa Árabe has been a vital bridge between Arab and Spanish cultures, with headquarters in Madrid and Cordoba. It serves as a meeting point for fostering dialogue between civilizations and promoting a culture of tolerance and diversity through its programs and initiatives.
The Sheikh Zayed Book Award annually recognizes entities or personalities that significantly contribute to enriching Arab culture through creativity or thought. Casa Árabe’s recognition underscores its commitment to promoting cultural exchange and understanding on an international level.