Al Raisi: Smart technologies are reshaping content creation and audience engagement


Artificial intelligence is taking on a prominent role in the 2026 edition of the Sharjah Government Communication Award (SGCA), organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), as the award reflects the growing role of AI in shaping the future of communication.

The 13th edition is built on the belief that success in communication is no longer determined by how quickly organisations adopt technologies, but how effectively and responsibly they are used. As AI increasingly becomes embedded in communication, SGCA encourages institutions and communication professionals to showcase how it has helped them develop content, better understand their audiences, and make more informed decisions.


Additional evaluation points

That approach is reinforced in several ways, including the “Best Use of Artificial Intelligence in Government and Institutional Communication” category, one of its direct-entry categories. It recognises initiatives that have successfully integrated AI into communication, from content development and audience analysis to knowledge management and improving communication outcomes.


The Jury Committee has also introduced an additional evaluation criterion across all award categories. For the first time since the award was launched, entries can receive up to 10 additional evaluation points for the effective, innovative, and responsible use of AI. This new criterion urges organisations to apply AI in ways that contribute to measurable results.


Mohammed Jalal Al Raisi, Head of the Jury Committee, said technology alone will not define the future of communication, but how organisations use it to benefit people and create positiveimpact. He added that AI has become a key part of content creation and audience engagement.


Competing with smart tech

AI also features in the award's “Best Innovators Competition in Smart Communication” categories through the “AI Skills Challenge” (AISC), which gives students and young people the opportunity to develop AI skills in communication, media and content creation through projects covering text, video, images, animation, and short films.


Among the partner awards is the “Best AI-Powered Communication for Social Impact”, which recognises government entities, private sector organisations, and international organisations that use AI in communication strategies that serve communities, better understand their needs, and improve quality of life through substantive results.


Submissions are open across 23 categories until 31 August 2026via the award website: https://gca.sgmb.ae/en.

Government entities, international organisations, private sector institutions, and individuals are invited to submit initiatives that show how AI, when used mindfully, can strengthen communication and increase its impact.