The Great Arab Mind Award Ceremony
Under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the inaugural Great Arab Minds Awards ceremony took place on January 8, 2024, at the Museum of the Future in Dubai. The event celebrated the achievements of six distinguished scholars who were recognised for their exceptional contributions in the fields of natural sciences, medicine, literature and arts, economics, engineering and technology, architecture and design.
The ceremony was also attended by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister for Financial and Economic Affairs; His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; His Highness Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Media Inc; Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Dubai Council, alongside with Great Arab Minds Higher committee chairman and members and partner. As well as scientists, researchers, ministers, diplomats and journalists from various regions of the Arab world.
The event commenced with an opening address by His Excellency Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the higher Committee of the Great Arab Mind Initiative. In his speech, he reflected on the historical contributions of Arab civilisation to the world, emphasising the region’s significance as a hub for science, commerce, and cultural exchange, serving as a beacon of humanity’s progress in various spheres. He underscored the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aiming to harness this initiative as a catalyst for empowering Arab society, revitalising its historical trajectory, and steering the Arab nation towards renewed prosperity and global prominence.
Following His Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi’s address, the six awardees took the stage to express their gratitude for the initiative and their joy at being the inaugural recipients of what Arab equivalent of the prestigious Nobel Prize. They regarded the award as a significant endorsement and motivation to further their efforts in innovation and research. Concluding their remarks, they extended a call to Arab youth, urging them to pursue their dreams and advance the cause of scientific achievement, thus carrying the banner of knowledge forward.
Great Arab Minds Research Centre:
During the Great Arab Minds award ceremony, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the higher committee of the Great Arab Mind Initiative announced the launch of a new research centre to foster regional innovation. In line with this initiative, Dh100 million will be allocated to support and encourage scientific research and development within the region. This significant development underscores Dubai’s commitment to enhancing the cognitive and scientific contributions of Arabs to the global community.
Great Award Mind Trophy Design:
The award trophy symbolises the resilience and determination of the Arab spirit in contributing significantly to human civilization. The choice of metal for the award’s base signifies strength and solidity.
The sides of the trophy are adorned with letters from the Ugaritic alphabet, an ancient script considered the earliest alphabet and a testament to Arab ingenuity, discovered at Ras Shamra archaeological site in Syria. The award also features the Great Arab Mind logo, representing excellence in the public sector across the Arab world. This logo, resembling a magnetic field, illustrates the convergence of minds and the vital role of researchers and scientists in advancing science and research in the Arab region. With a prize value of one million dirhams per category, the Great Arab Mind Award stands as the most prestigious honor celebrating scholars and intellectuals in the Arab world.
Trophies Distribution:
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, presented trophies to the six distinguished awardees. This momentous occasion was followed by a commemorative group photography session, capturing memorable moments of His Highness alongside the honored recipients.
This inaugural ceremony, representing a significant milestone in the Arab scientific community, concluded on a high note, laying the groundwork for future events dedicated to celebrating the achievements of Great Arab Minds, who continue to make valuable contributions to the Arab world and the global community.
