Applications are now open for the 2026 UNESCO Sultan Qaboos Prize. Sponsored by the Sultanate of Oman to honour Sultan Qaboos’ visionary commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development, the prize is awarded biennially during the World Science Forum.

Established through the generous support of the Sultanate of Oman, the prize commemorates the enduring legacy of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, whose commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development continues to inspire global action. Awarded every two years, the prize includes a certificate and a financial award of US$100,000, and will be presented during the World Science Forum in November 2026.  

Categories

Candidates must have made an outstanding contribution in one of the following fields:

  • Environmental and natural resources research
  • Environmental education and training
  • Creation of environmental awarness through the preparation of environmental information materials
  • Establishment and management of protected areas, such as biosphere reserves and natural World Heritage site

Method of Application

  • The prize honours individuals, groups, institutes or organizations that have made significant contributions to environmental conservation in line with UNESCO’s mission.
  • Eligible achievements may include environmental and natural resources research, environmental education and training, awareness-raising initiatives, and activities related to the establishment and management of protected areas such as Biosphere Reserves, World Heritage sites and UNESCO Global Geoparks

Nominations must be submitted by governments or non-governmental organizations maintaining official relations with UNESCO; self-nominations are not accepted.  

Each submission should include: 

  • a completed nomination form
  • a written recommendation, and
  • the names of three independent referees familiar with the candidate’s work.  

The deadline for nominations is 15 June 2026, and submissions should be sent to the Secretariat of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme (mab@unesco.org).  

For More Information,

Visit the Official Webpage

Application Deadline: 15 June 2026,