The President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, awarded His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, the Grand Collar of the Order of Camões. The decoration was bestowed on January 29, 2026, during an official ceremony held at the Belém Palace in Lisbon.
The distinction, granted by presidential decree, recognizes the intellectual, cultural, and academic career of the Ruler of Sharjah, as well as his lasting contribution to the promotion of culture, knowledge, and intercultural dialogue among peoples and civilizations.
Over the years, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has developed a close relationship with Portuguese academic and cultural institutions, particularly the University of Coimbra, where he was awarded an honorary doctorate (Doctor Honoris Causa) in 2018.
The awarding of the Grand Collar of the Order of Camões also carries special significance as it takes place in the year marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Portugal and the United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi is the first Arab personality to receive this decoration, which honors individuals of exceptional merit in promoting culture and dialogue among peoples.
Media em Movimento was the Portuguese agency selected to communicate the initiative to the press, due to its specialization in International Communication.