Arab Reading Challenge Attracts Over 40 Million Students in Record-Breaking 10th Edition
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: The 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge has achieved a historic milestone, drawing participation from more than 40.28 million students across 60 countries, marking a 24 percent increase compared to the previous edition.
The initiative, launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, also saw the inclusion of 76,062 students of determination, with participation spanning 138,426 schools and supported by 161,507 supervisors worldwide.
Reviewing the record-breaking figures, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the project’s continued expansion and impact, stating that the initiative reflects a strong commitment to fostering a culture of reading and knowledge across the Arab world. He emphasized that the Challenge continues to empower future generations with essential skills, while reinforcing cultural identity and intellectual growth.
Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, described the initiative as a cornerstone in shaping a knowledge-based Arab future. He noted that participation exceeding 40 million students demonstrates the Challenge’s growing influence in encouraging reading habits and preserving the Arabic language.
Since its inception in 2015, the Arab Reading Challenge has engaged over 203 million students across 10 editions, reflecting a growth of more than 1,000 percent from its initial 3.6 million participants. The latest edition alone represents nearly 48 percent of all general education students in the Arab world, signaling a significant shift toward making reading a sustained daily habit.
A study conducted by UNESCO found that 93 percent of participants improved their Arabic language skills, while 96 percent reported increased self-confidence. The study also highlighted a rise in intensive reading habits, with more students reading over 50 books annually and dedicating between 50 to 100 hours per year to reading.
The competition involves multiple qualifying rounds at class, school, regional, and national levels, with finalists advancing to Dubai for the concluding stage in 2026. Participants are evaluated based on their ability to read, summarize, and comprehend 50 books, with rigorous criteria applied throughout the selection process.
Winners of the Arab Reading Champion title receive AED 500,000, while additional categories—including People of Determination, Community Champion, Best School, and Outstanding Supervisor—offer substantial prizes aimed at encouraging excellence in education and literacy.
The Arab Reading Challenge remains the largest literacy initiative in the Arab world, promoting a culture of knowledge, critical thinking, and cultural exchange among young generations while fostering values of tolerance and coexistence.
