Dubai: In a celebration of literacy and learning, Reem Adel Al Zarouni was named the UAE Champion in the ninth edition of the Arab Reading Challenge during a grand ceremony held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, reported the Gulf Today. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across the country, reflecting a deep-rooted culture of reading among the youth.
Reem’s remarkable achievement was accompanied by other notable recognitions. Zahra Hamad was honoured with the title of Outstanding Supervisor, while Abdullah Al Dhanhani was named the Arab Reading Challenge Champion for People of Determination, highlighting the inclusive spirit of the initiative.
Overwhelmed by the honour, Reem expressed both pride and responsibility. “I’m not only feeling so proud and excited to raise my country’s flag at international forums and at the Arab Reading Challenge Closing Ceremony, but also feeling a tremendous sense of responsibility,” she said.
The Arab Reading Challenge, launched during the 2015-2016 academic year under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum — Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai — has grown into the world’s largest Arabic-language reading initiative. Its mission is to foster a passion for reading in students across the Arab world and beyond.
The initiative underscores the importance of Arabic as a vibrant and evolving language, capable of expressing literature, science, and knowledge. It encourages students to integrate reading into their daily lives and nurtures values of openness, tolerance, coexistence, and cultural understanding — equipping the younger generation to contribute meaningfully to a brighter future.
