Baghdad: The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities announced the launch of the 11th Iraqi Creativity Award for 2026. The Higher Committee specified the competitive and honorary categories and the deadline for submissions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Higher Committee for the Iraqi Creativity Award held a meeting with participation from the Ministry’s Undersecretaries, Qasim Al-Sudani and Fadhil Al-Badrani, alongside various committee members. These members included directors general and representatives from relevant cultural institutions. The meeting focused on approving the mechanisms and criteria for submission and judging to ensure professionalism and transparency in evaluating submissions and selecting winners.

The Committee outlined the competitive categories for this edition, which encompass poetry, novels, short stories, critical and linguistic studies, children’s literature, translation, visual arts, theater, film, music, calligraphy, archaeological studies, digital creativity, graphic design, and biographical literature. Honorary categories were also approved, including Cultural Creativity Personality, Best Tourism Company, Best Tourism Facility, Best Chef, Best Youth Cultural Initiative, and Best Digital Cultural Platform.

The submission window for the award will open on September 1, 2026, and close on October 30, 2026. Submissions must adhere to the criteria that will be announced by the Ministry, and they are to be submitted to the Department of Festivals and Cultural Events at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities.

The Iraqi Creativity Award serves as a vital platform for celebrating Iraqi achievements in literature, arts, and knowledge, aiming to enhance Iraq’s cultural presence both regionally and globally.