Sharjah – September 09, 2026 -- The Government of Sharjah has opened global applications for the 13th edition of its Government Communication Award, expanding the competition to spotlight artificial intelligence in public-sector messaging. Organizations and individuals have until September 22, 2026 to submit entries across more than 35 award categories, spanning government and international bodies, the private sector, individual honors and intelligent-communication contests.

2025 edition drew 2,600 applications from 37 countries

The expansion follows rising international participation last year, when the award attracted over 2,600 submissions from 37 countries. More than 600 entries advanced to a second phase, with 170 reaching the final evaluation round. Past entries have included Tuvalu's initiative to become the first digital nation addressing climate change and youth entrepreneurship programs from Nigeria.

New AI category to judge planning, execution and impact

The 13th edition, run by the Sharjah Government Media Office, introduces the "Best Use of AI in Government and Institutional Communication" category for the first time. Judges will assess how AI has been applied across planning, implementation and outcome evaluation, including whether it improved content quality, audience understanding or overall communication effectiveness.

New subcategory targets Emirati identity campaigns

A further addition, the "Best Campaigns for Promoting Emirati Identity" subcategory, has been introduced alongside the AI category. With the application window now open, the Media Office said it is seeking initiatives that demonstrate not only communication effectiveness but measurable, sustainable impact on beneficiaries.