Three laureates of the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development are being announced today, 5 October, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris during the World Teachers’ Day celebrations. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences named 10 shortlisted projects for the ninth edition of the prize (2025–2026), with the winners to be revealed in the presence of Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum, according to Dubai Global News.

Record participation for the ninth edition

  • 169 applications received from 64 countries — the highest participation since the prize was established
  • 129 applications met the eligibility requirements
  • 15 countries participated for the first time
  • Overall participation rose by 66 per cent
  • 10 projects shortlisted; 3 laureates announced on 5 October
Award ceremony stage with trophies and an audience applauding
The three laureates are revealed on 5 October at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

Why this year’s ceremony carries extra weight

The award ceremony coincides with the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. The World Teachers’ Day programme in Paris brings together international organisations, ministers, education experts, teachers and institutions to examine the status of the teaching profession, the pressures educators face, and how recognition and support for teachers can be strengthened. UNESCO confirms the programme includes the ninth-edition Hamdan Prize ceremony.

Teacher helping a student with schoolwork at a desk
This year’s ceremony coincides with the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation on the Status of Teachers.

A Dubai foundation with a global education brief

The prize is one of the most visible ways a Dubai-based foundation shapes global education debate. For families relocating or choosing schools in the Emirates, teacher development is a practical quality signal — see our guides to Dubai with kids, where to stay in Dubai and best time to visit Dubai for the wider move-and-visit picture.

FAQs

What is the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize?

It is the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development, supported by the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation. The ninth edition covers 2025–2026.

When are the 2026 laureates announced?

On 5 October 2026 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, during the World Teachers’ Day celebrations. Three laureates are chosen from 10 finalists.

How many applications did this edition receive?

169 applications from 64 countries, of which 129 met eligibility requirements — the highest participation since the prize began, up 66 per cent, with 15 countries taking part for the first time.

Why is this year significant beyond the prize?

The ceremony coincides with the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.