Nominations have opened for the 50th edition of the King Faisal Prize, with submissions accepted until the end of March 2027. The award, established by the King Faisal Foundation in 1977 and first presented in 1979, recognizes individuals and institutions for outstanding contributions in five categories: Service to Islam, Islamic Studies, Arabic Language and Literature, Medicine, and Science.

Abdulaziz Al-Sebail, secretary-general of the prize, outlined the thematic focus areas for the 2028 cycle. For Islamic Studies, the theme will center on “Muslim Heritage in Al-Andalus,” while the Arabic Language and Literature category will emphasize “Arabic Literature from the Perspective of Comparative Studies.” The Medicine category will highlight advances in “RNA-Based Therapies,” and the Science category will be dedicated to “Life Sciences.” The Service to Islam prize honors those who have made pioneering intellectual, scientific, or social contributions in support of Islam and Muslim communities.

Nominations are invited from universities, research institutions, organizations, and scientific centers worldwide. Submissions can be made via email at nominations@kingfaisalprize.org or through the prize’s official online nomination portal.

Since its inception, the King Faisal Prize has honored 308 laureates from 45 countries for achievements that span scientific innovation, scholarship, and humanitarian work. Initially, the prize covered Service to Islam, Islamic Studies, and Arabic Language and Literature. The Medicine and Science categories were introduced in 1981 to broaden its scope.

Each laureate receives a monetary award of $200,000, along with a 24-carat gold medal weighing 200 grams and a commemorative certificate. The prize continues to be one of the most prestigious recognitions in the Arab world and internationally, reflecting a commitment to fostering academic excellence and cultural contributions.