Historic Nominations for Zayed Award 2026

The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is witnessing a historic surge ahead of its 2026 ceremony, with more than 350 nominations received from over 75 countries. These nominations encompass a distinguished array of endorsers, such as heads of state, Nobel laureates, grassroots activists, and youth advocates, illustrating the award’s expanding global influence.

Countries leading in nominations include the UAE, the US, Italy, Canada, and Egypt, reflecting the award’s international appeal. The judging panel is currently evaluating the nominations, with the announcement of the honoree(s) slated for next month. The 2026 edition features a prize of US$1 million, and the winner(s) will be recognized at a gala event in Abu Dhabi on February 4, 2026, coinciding with the UN sanctioned International Day of Human Fraternity.

Since its launch in 2019, the Zayed Award has celebrated 16 remarkable recipients from 15 different nations, highlighting both individuals and organizations committed to promoting human fraternity and peaceful coexistence. Previous honorees include notable figures such as UN Secretary-General António Guterres, King Abdullah II and Queen Rania of Jordan, the late Pope Francis, Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and humanitarian initiatives like World Central Kitchen and the Community of Sant’Egidio.

In memory of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, this prestigious award acknowledges contributions that bridge religious, ethnic, and national divides, celebrating impactful efforts that promote coexistence and mutual understanding.

With an unprecedented number of nominations this year, the 2026 edition emphasizes the award’s increasing importance on the global landscape, spotlighting those dedicated to unity, tolerance, and human solidarity.