Sharjah – September 09, 2026 -- The Sharjah Government has opened worldwide submissions for the 13th edition of its Government Communication Award, with a new category dedicated to artificial intelligence use in public-sector messaging. Organisations and individuals have until September 22, 2026, to submit entries across more than 35 award categories spanning government bodies, international organisations, the private sector, individuals, smart communication competitions, jury awards and partner awards.

AI now carries direct scoring weight across all categories

The 13th edition introduces a standalone Best Use of Artificial Intelligence in Government and Institutional Communication award. Entries in every other category can also earn up to 10 percent in additional points for demonstrating effective AI use. Jurors will evaluate how AI was applied across planning, implementation and results measurement, including whether it improved content quality, audience understanding or communication efficiency.

2025 edition drew 2,600 submissions from 37 countries

The expansion follows rising international participation last year, when the award received more than 2,600 entries from 37 countries. More than 600 submissions cleared initial screening, with 170 advancing to final evaluation. Past entries have included Tuvalu's plan to become the first digital nation in response to climate change, youth entrepreneurship programmes in Nigeria, and an AI platform linking experts across Africa and the United States.

New subcategory targets Emirati identity campaigns

The Sharjah Government Media Bureau, which runs the award, has also added Best Campaigns Promoting Emirati Identity as a new subcategory. Organisers say the 13th edition will prioritise measurable outcomes, asking entrants to show not just how effectively they communicated but what changed as a result and whether the impact is sustainable.