Eligible for application is published original research work that is authored/co-authored by the applicant. The publication must be accepted for publication by a major international, peer-reviewed journal at the time of submission or published in the previous five years. The Category is not limited to the natural sciences. Innovative studies in other science disciplines, engineering or the humanities, if benefiting the date palm and/or agricultural sector of the region, will also be considered. A single publication must be chosen for the award application. Up to three other publications that are authored or co-authored by the applicant and directly linked to the main paper may be submitted as supplemental material (optional). Books presenting research and scholarship (monographs) may also qualify. Editorial work will normally not be considered.

The proposed project may be administered by the private or the government sector or an international organization. The project may be planned, ongoing or successfully completed in the last five years.Typically, development and productive projects are of considerable size and affect communities, geographical areas and/or social structures. Also considered in this category are all educational projects that are aimed at maintaining and developing the understanding and appreciation of the date palm and/or agricultural sector of the region.

The Award is given to date producers, manufactures and marketers (individuals, organizations, commercial companies), that contributed to development of the date palm sector.The applicants should demonstrate their achievements and performance.

Eligible are new and innovative techniques that have a direct and proven positive effect on the date palm and/or agricultural sector of the region. The novelty of the approach should be demonstrated and the positive effect quantitatively documented. The term “innovative technique” will be applied in its broadest sense. The key is that a positive impact is proven, not just promised.