King Salman International Award for Disability Research 2026 (USD 133000 Prize)
Introduction
The King Salman International Award for Disability Research is a prestigious global award that honors outstanding scientific work aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities. Supported by the Government of Saudi Arabia, this award recognizes researchers, scientists, and institutions whose work has created real impact across health, education, rehabilitation, technology, and universal accessibility. Each award category offers a generous prize of USD 133,000, making it one of the most valuable international research awards in this field.
About the King Salman International Award for Disability Research
This international award was established to promote excellence in disability-related research and to encourage innovative solutions that enhance inclusion, independence, and quality of life for persons with disabilities. It supports research efforts at local, regional, and global levels and celebrates work that has already demonstrated practical value and influence.
The award is open to individuals and organizations whose research contributions have been applied in real-world practices and have advanced scientific knowledge in meaningful ways.
Award Value and Recognition
Each selected winner will receive:
- USD 133,000 cash prize
- Official certificate of appreciation
- Commemorative medal
- Invitation to attend the award ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Main Purpose of the Award
The core goal of this award is to encourage high-quality scientific research that addresses disability challenges and promotes inclusive societies. It aims to strengthen global research collaboration and highlight impactful work that leads to long-term benefits for individuals with disabilities.
Award Categories (Five Main Branches)
1. Health and Medical Sciences
This category focuses on medical and health-related research that supports people with disabilities. It includes work related to early detection, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and psychological support. Research may cover areas such as:
- Early screening and medical intervention
- Evidence-based treatment methods
- Physical and medical rehabilitation
- Mental health and psychological care
2. Educational and Psychological Sciences
This branch recognizes research that improves education and psychological support for individuals with disabilities, their families, and professionals working in the field. Relevant topics include:
- Special education and curriculum development
- Educational psychology and teaching strategies
- Counseling programs and intervention models
- Research using qualitative, quantitative, or case-study approaches
Rehabilitation and Social Sciences
This category highlights research that promotes social inclusion, equality, and independence for people with disabilities. It values work that has influenced employment, community participation, and social empowerment through areas such as:
- Physical and motor rehabilitation
- Speech and hearing support
- Social integration and disability rights
- Long-term community impact initiatives
Technical Applications in Disability Fields
This branch focuses on technology-based research that supports people with disabilities. It welcomes interdisciplinary work, including contributions from fields like computer science, artificial intelligence, and engineering. Research may include:
- Assistive technologies
- Diagnostic and intervention tools
- Educational and medical devices
- Technology-driven support systems
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a scientist, researcher, institution, or organization working in disability-related fields
- Have published research in recognized peer-reviewed journals
- Submit original work that has not received a similar international award
- Demonstrate innovation, leadership, and measurable impact
- Previous winners may apply again only after five years, using new research
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- List of published journal articles (individual and co-authored)
- Journal impact factor and ranking (where applicable)
- List of books, edited works, or translations
- Summary of professional or community contributions
- A personal essay (maximum 500 words) explaining the impact of the research
- A support or nomination letter from an institution or qualified colleague
Who Can Nominate?
Nominations may be submitted by:
- Disability research centers
- Universities and academic departments
- National or international organizations
- Previous award recipients
- Qualified colleagues
- The applicant themselves (self-nomination allowed)
Application Deadline
March 31, 2026
10:00 PM
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the nomination form and upload all required documents through the official award submission system. Ensure that all information is accurate, complete, and well-organized before final submission.
Extra Tips for Applicants
- Focus on real-world impact, not just theory
- Clearly explain how your research improves lives
- Use simple language when describing complex ideas
- Highlight long-term influence and scalability
- Ensure all publications are properly documented
Other Best Scholarships
KNB Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Indonesia Government Scholarship
