Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan honoured H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan with the Distinguished Educational Personality Award for 2026 at a ceremony in Abu Dhabi.
The recognition highlights her role in supporting the development of a national education model aligned with the UAE’s values, future strategies and the Centennial 2071 agenda. The award was received on her behalf by Hajer Ahmed Al Thehli.
The ceremony, held at Emirates Palace, was attended by senior officials, including Ahmed Juma Al Zaabi, Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili and Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, alongside other dignitaries.
Sheikh Nahyan also honoured 40 winners across local, Arab and international categories in the award’s 19th edition. This included 25 winners from the UAE, four Emirati families, 11 winners from across the Arab world and four international recipients in early learning.
The event opened with the UAE national anthem and a documentary highlighting efforts to strengthen early childhood education and the role of the Khalifa Award for Education in supporting quality and innovation.
In his remarks, Sheikh Nahyan said the award continues to promote excellence in education, drawing on the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who viewed education as a foundation for development.
He added that the UAE, under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is focused on building a competitive education system based on investing in people and developing national capabilities.
Sheikh Nahyan said the recognition of Sheikha Mariam reflects her contribution to advancing an education environment that prepares specialised national talent and supports future development goals.
He also noted the award’s growing international standing, with nominations this year from 52 countries, reflecting wider global engagement.
Winners were recognised across multiple categories, including creative teachers, institutional performance, higher education, innovation in Arabic language teaching and community service initiatives.
At the Arab level, educators from countries including Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and Jordan were honoured. International awards for early learning were presented to recipients from the United States and the United Kingdom for programs and research.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photograph and the presentation of the Khalifa Award for Education shield to Sheikh Nahyan in recognition of his continued support.