The 10th edition of the prestigious Arab Reading Challenge reached a major milestone this year, with Dana Adel Al Zarouni from Al Ittihad National Private School in Abu Dhabi claiming the title of UAE champion. She emerged victorious after competing against a record-breaking 830,000 students from across the Emirates. This impressive achievement now positions her to represent the nation as she advances to the final stages of the global competition. The celebration took place at the Dubai Exhibition Centre and was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Minister of Education Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, who also honored the top-performing schools and supervisors.

As the world’s largest initiative of its kind, the Arab Reading Challenge continues to foster a culture of literacy among youth, drawing over 40 million participants from 60 countries this year. Originally launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative motivates students to read at least 50 books throughout the academic year. By challenging young minds to expand their knowledge through extensive reading, the program remains a cornerstone of educational development, inspiring a new generation of readers on a global scale.