The Deputy Governor of Riyadh crowns the winners of the King Faisal Prize 2026

Details of the King Faisal Prize 2026 awards ceremony

In an exceptional event reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's profound interest in science and scientists, the Deputy Governor of Riyadh presided over the ceremony honoring the winners of the 2026 King Faisal Prize. This annual recognition is an extension of the generous support the wise leadership provides to thinkers and innovators from around the world, and a firm affirmation of Riyadh's role as a beacon of culture and science and a hub for human intellectual creativity.

General context and historical background of the King Faisal Prize

The King Faisal International Prize was launched through a pioneering initiative by the King Faisal Foundation, established in 1977 (1397 AH), and began awarding its prizes for the first time in 1979. The prize is named after the late King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud – may God have mercy on him – in commemoration of his memory and his distinguished service to Islam and humanity. Since its inception, the prize has aimed to serve Islam and Muslims, elevate human thought, and honor scholars who have made outstanding contributions to humanity. The prize is awarded in five main and important categories: Service to Islam, Islamic Studies, Arabic Language and Literature, Medicine, and Science.

The importance of the event and its local, regional, and international impact

The King Faisal Prize is of great importance at all levels, and is known in academic and scientific circles as the “Arab Nobel” due to its prestigious status, the accuracy of its standards, and the rigor of its judging committees.

At the local level, this annual event aligns closely with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes the importance of building a knowledge-based society that values ​​science and innovation. It also reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in supporting scientific and cultural excellence and recognizing talent.

At the regional level: The award contributes to motivating Arab and Muslim researchers and scholars to present their best studies and research that serve the issues of the nation, and works to enrich the Arab and Islamic library with works of high scientific and historical value.

At the international level, the award's impact extends globally, honoring scientists and researchers from all corners of the earth regardless of their nationality or affiliation, particularly in the fields of medicine and science. Further underscoring the award's credibility and international reach is the fact that many King Faisal Prize laureates have subsequently received the Nobel Prize, reflecting the rigor of the judging panels and their pioneering role in recognizing scientific achievements.

Details of the award and selection criteria

The King Faisal Prize ceremony includes awarding each winner a certificate inscribed in Diwani Arabic script bearing their name and a summary of their achievements that qualified them for the prize, a 24-karat gold medal, and a cash prize of 750,000 Saudi riyals awarded in each category. The selection process for winners involves multiple stages of screening and confidential evaluation by specialized international judging panels to ensure that the prize is awarded to the truly deserving recipients.

In conclusion, the crowning of the winners of the 2026 edition by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh represents a continuation of the King Faisal Foundation’s mission to spread science and knowledge, and an affirmation that the Kingdom will always remain a major supporter of every effort that serves the interests and well-being of humanity.