APYA gala dinner ceremony
Arab Personality of the Year

APYA 2026
Nominations Are Closed

Celebrating Excellence, Leadership and Impact Across the UK Arab Community

Learn More
Nominations closed · 15 October 2026

Deadline

Nominations are now closed

01 · Our Mission

About APYA

The Arab Personality of the Year Awards (APYA) recognise outstanding individuals whose achievements, leadership and contributions have made a meaningful impact on society, the Arab community and the United Kingdom.

APYA celebrates excellence across multiple sectors and honours those who inspire future generations through service, innovation, creativity and achievement.

02 · Recognition

Award Categories

Social & Public Impact

Recognising individuals whose work, initiatives or leadership have created meaningful and lasting social impact through community service, humanitarian action, public engagement and civic contribution.

  • Community Leaders
  • Charity Founders
  • Humanitarian Initiatives
  • Social Development Programmes
  • Public Service Contributions

Culture, Arts & Sport

Recognising outstanding achievements in culture, arts, literature, heritage and sport that inspire others, promote excellence and strengthen cultural identity.

  • Artists
  • Writers
  • Cultural Leaders
  • Heritage Advocates
  • Athletes

Science, Research, Health & Innovation

Recognising exceptional contributions to science, medicine, research, technology and innovation that advance knowledge and benefit society.

  • Scientists
  • Researchers
  • Academics
  • Healthcare Professionals
  • Innovators

Youth Achievement Award

Recognising young people aged 16–22 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, achievement and community impact.

03 · Eligibility

Who Can Be Nominated?

  • Of Arab heritage
  • Resident in the United Kingdom or with significant UK connection
  • Demonstrates excellence in their field
  • Positive impact on society
  • Meets category requirements
04 · Selection

What Judges Look For

Impact & Contribution

Leadership & Influence

Innovation & Achievement

Community Benefit

Inspiration to Others

05 · Submit

Nominate Your Arab Personality of the Year 2026

Nominations for APYA 2026 are now closed. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination — the shortlist will be announced soon.
06 · Questions

Frequently Asked

Anyone may nominate. You can nominate a colleague, mentor, family member, public figure, or yourself, provided the nominee meets the eligibility criteria.
No. Nominations are completely free of charge.
Yes. Self-nominations are welcomed and reviewed on the same basis as third-party nominations.
An independent panel reviews each nomination against six judging criteria: impact, leadership, innovation, community benefit, sustainability of impact, and inspiration to others.
Supporting materials such as a CV, press articles, references, photographs or videos strengthen a nomination but are not mandatory.
All nominations must be received by 23:59 (UK time) on Thursday, 15 October 2026.