Sharjah Government Communication Award reaches new heights with global recognition
The 13th iteration of the prestigious Sharjah Government Communication Award has unveiled its shortlist, reflecting the calibre of strategic communication across the region and beyond. Winners will be celebrated at a ceremony on 2nd November.
The Sharjah Government Media Bureau has revealed the shortlist for the 13th Sharjah Government Communication Award, honouring excellence in communication strategy and execution across government and institutional sectors. The ceremony takes place on Monday, 2nd November, with the final competition for the ‘Best Innovators Competition in Smart Communication’ running from 28th October to 1st November at Al Majaz Amphitheatre.
This year’s evaluation process deepened its focus on tangible results and enduring impact. Submissions arrived from 31 countries spanning Asia, Africa, Europe and North America, with 433 entries advancing through initial screening to the judging stage. The assessment criteria centred on demonstrable results and long-term impact, strategic planning and implementation excellence.
The shortlist spans categories reflecting contemporary priorities. ‘Best Communication Targeting Youth’ encompasses initiatives from Emirates Health Services and Sharjah Youth, alongside programmes supporting emerging projects from institutions across the region. ‘Outstanding Communication Award for a Higher Quality of Life’ recognises Sharjah Digital Department, Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority and Sharjah Police for their contributions to community wellbeing.
Innovation and technological advancement feature prominently, with ‘Best Innovation in Integrated Communications’ acknowledging the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Justice. Crisis communication strategy receives particular recognition, whilst ‘Best Use of Artificial Intelligence in Government and Institutional Communication’ highlights forward-thinking approaches from institutions including Dubai Municipality and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
Cultural identity and Arabic language preservation are celebrated through dedicated categories, with shortlisted entries from the UAE Government Media Office, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Culture, alongside regional initiatives including the House of Wisdom and Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council. Community empowerment through communication is recognised across government and non-governmental sectors, whilst creative communication targeting children and adolescents spans government departments and foundations including the Kalimat Foundation.
Individual recognition extends to official spokespeople, including Afra Al Hameli from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and celebrates digital content creators across two age categories. Research in communication sciences receives acknowledgment, with three papers submitted from scholars and researchers across the region.
The jury, chaired by Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, comprises distinguished media and communication specialists including Dr. Yasar Jarrar, Dr. Ahmed Al Arfaj, Sami Al Reyami, Shihab Al Hammadi, Ali Jaber, Mohammed Majid Al Suwaidi and Mona El Shazly.
What it means for Abu Dhabi
The prominence of Abu Dhabi institutions on the 13th SGCA shortlist underscores the emirate’s excellence in strategic communication across critical sectors. The Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and UAE Ministry entities demonstrate the sophistication of Abu Dhabi’s approach to institutional messaging and public engagement.
The award’s emphasis on results, impact and innovation reflects values increasingly central to Abu Dhabi’s institutional culture. As the Museum of the Future’s recent recruitment initiatives have shown, the region prioritises imaginative thinking and emotional intelligence in shaping how institutions connect with communities. The SGCA’s recognition of communication excellence across government, business and civil society reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to meaningful dialogue and forward-thinking engagement.
Source: WAM