Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honours six outstanding winners of the Great Arab Minds on January 15, 2026. From left: Charbel Dagher, Nabil Seidah, Badi Hani, Sheikh Mohammed, Majed Chergui, Dr. Suad Amiry and Abbas El Gamal. SUPPLIED

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has honoured the six winners of the Great Arab Minds at a ceremony in Dubai's Museum of the Future. Widely known as the “Arab Nobel,” the Great Arab Minds initiative is the largest Arab platform dedicated to recognising exceptional achievement across science, culture, innovation, and knowledge-based fields. The initiative highlights Arab contributions that advance human civilisation and inspire future generations across the region and beyond. At the ceremony on Thursday (January 15), Sheikh Mohammed said the initiative was created to expand opportunities for Arab talent, support innovation and creativity, and reinforce pride in Arab achievement across disciplines such as research, technology, architecture, and the arts. He congratulated the 2025 winners and encouraged them to continue serving as role models for young people, helping shape a better future through science, knowledge, and cultural contribution.

Meet the Great Arab Minds 2025 winners

Professor Abbas El Gamal – Engineering and Technology Professor Abbas El Gamal was awarded for his pioneering contributions to network information theory, a field that has played a vital role in modern communication systems. He expressed gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed, describing the recognition as deeply meaningful and inspiring. Dr. Nabil Seidah – Medicine Dr. Nabil Seidah received the award for his outstanding research in cardiovascular health and cholesterol regulation. He said the recognition reflects a lifelong belief that knowledge is a lasting legacy and pledged to continue inspiring future generations of Arab scientists. Professor Badi Hani – Economics Professor Badi Hani was honoured for his groundbreaking work in econometrics, particularly in panel data analysis, which allows economists to conduct deeper and more accurate research. He described the award as a tribute to the people and places that shaped his journey. Professor Majed Chergui – Natural Sciences Professor Majed Chergui was recognised for his contributions to understanding light-matter interactions, enabling scientists to study ultrafast processes at the atomic level. He said the award was especially meaningful as it came from an Arab country, reflecting his diverse Arab identity. Dr. Suad Amiry – Architecture and Design Dr. Suad Amiry was honoured for her lifelong work in preserving Palestinian architectural heritage through documentation, restoration, and adaptive reuse. She highlighted the role of the Riwaq Centre, which she founded, in safeguarding cultural identity through architecture. Professor Charbel Dagher – Literature and Arts Professor Charbel Dagher received the award for his influential body of work in Arab and Islamic arts, Arabic calligraphy, and modern visual arts. He emphasised the importance of preserving the Arabic language as a living medium of science, culture, and knowledge. The winners were selected by six specialised, high-level committees, with one committee dedicated to each category. ICA/Expat Media
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