Dubai: 'Superhuman' UAE teachers are being encouraged to apply for the GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize, a $1 million award initiative by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO. This prestigious prize, the largest of its kind, has drawn over 100,000 applications and nominations globally since its inception in 2015.
According to Emirates News Agency, Mansour bin Abdullah Al-Mansour, the most recent winner, has significantly impacted the lives of hundreds of orphans and dedicates his free time to teaching literacy to prisoners. Al-Mansour, awarded at the World Governments Summit in Dubai in February 2025, stated that teachers across the UAE are transforming young lives with resilience, innovation, and courage. He urged educators to apply for the prize and encouraged students and parents to nominate deserving teachers.
Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Global Teacher Prize, emphasized the role of education in addressing global challenges and invited UAE teachers to participate in this year's prize. He highlighted the importance of educators as leaders in creating a better and more equitable future.
Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, reiterated UNESCO's support for the prize and the essential role of teachers in overcoming growing shortages and challenges. She stressed that investing in teachers is critical to building a just and sustainable world.
The UAE boasts a track record of success with the GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize. Notable mentions include Moza Mohammed Rashid Saadan Al-Hafiti in 2025 and Riadh Zammali in 2021, both recognized among the top 50.
The prize is open to active teachers of students in compulsory schooling or aged five to 18, including part-time and online educators. Applicants must dedicate at least 10 hours per week to teaching and plan to continue in the profession for five years. Eligibility extends to teachers in all school types and countries, subject to local laws.
Applicants will be evaluated on their teaching practices, innovation in addressing local challenges, community impact, and contributions to the teaching profession. Interested educators can apply at www.globalteacherprize.org. The selection process will culminate in a Top 50 shortlist and Top 10 finalists, with the winner chosen by the Global Teacher Prize Academy.