Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation

General Look

Vision and Mission

Our Pillars

Our Values

Our History

Arab Bank

Board

Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation: The Arab Bank’s arm for cultural and social responsibility.

Established in 1978 as a non-profit initiative of the Arab Bank, Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation serves as a beacon of knowledge, connecting creativity, scientific research, culture, and community. Today, it is one of the region’s leading cultural non-profit institutions, advancing science, culture, and education as drivers of development and prosperity.

The Foundation supports scientific research and innovation through initiatives such as the Abdul Hameed Shoman Award for Arab Researchers; the first of its kind in the Arab world, the Scientific Research Support Fund; which addresses community challenges, and the Innovation Fund, which supports entrepreneurial projects. Its cultural mission is reflected in the Abdul Hameed Shoman Public Library, Jordan’s first fully equipped, computerized public library offering free services through six branches nationwide. The Foundation also promotes culture and the arts through its Cinema Program, arts and music initiatives, and cultural grants that amplify Arab creativity and extend its mission to wider audiences.

Driven by its belief in culture, critical thought, and creativity, the Foundation launches initiatives that serve the community and expand access to information, positioning it as a leading model for investing in people and building a knowledge-based future.

Vision

Towards a society of culture and creativity.

Mission

Investing in intellectual, cultural, and social creativity to contribute to the advancement of Arab societies through thought leadership, literature and arts, and social innovation.

The Pillars of the Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation

Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation is committed to fostering thought leadership by building capacities, providing learning resources, and empowering individuals intellectually and scientifically. It aims to prepare a generation of Arab scholars and thinkers who contribute to knowledge development and serve the priorities of the Arab world. The Foundation also promotes free thinking by creating interactive spaces for dialogue among thinkers, intellectuals, and creatives through conferences, seminars, and debates.

01. Abdul Hameed Shoman Award for Arab Researchers.

The first Arab award dedicated to scientific research, honoring Arab researchers since 1982 for their contributions. It is one of the most prestigious awards in the academic community.

02. The Scientific Research Support Fund.

A fund supporting applied scientific research in Jordanian universities and research centers. Through this fund, the Foundation has provided over 1.7 million Jordanian dinars to advance research addressing societal challenges.

03. Abdul Hameed Shoman Cultural Forum.

One of the leading intellectual and cultural platforms in Jordan and the Arab world, established in 1986 as an open space for dialogue, discussion, and exchange of ideas among thought leaders and the public on issues facing our societies.

The Foundation views culture as a cornerstone of development, nurturing talent and advancing literary and artistic expression in all its forms. Its work spans literature, music, performing arts, creative industries, and multimedia, while also supporting libraries in Jordan and Palestine, encouraging public–intellectual engagement, and fostering creativity among children.

Abdul Hameed Shoman Public Libraries.

Established as the first fully equipped, computerized public library, it was envisioned as more than a reading space, a vibrant center for culture and lifelong learning. Rooted in the belief that libraries are vital to societal progress, it offers free access to knowledge and today spans six branches across Jordan.

2. Abdul Hameed Shoman Award for Children’s Literature.

An annual platform that encourages Arab creators to produce rich Arabic literary content that meets the psychological and cultural needs of children, reflects their identity, and nurtures their imagination. The award aims to support and advance children’s literature across the Arab world.

03. Knowledge Path Libraries for Children and Young Adults.

Founded on the belief that childhood is a vital time for nurturing curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, Knowledge Path Library provides a safe, engaging space where imagination and a lasting love of discovery can flourish.

04. Cinema at Shoman.

Established to celebrate cinema as a powerful cultural expression, the program handpicks Arab and international films and pairs them with discussions and analytical sessions that foster deeper understanding and meaningful dialogue.

05. Musical Evenings.

Established in 2014 to support emerging musical talents in Jordan and the region, the program provides a platform for showcasing and nurturing local musicians.

06.Cultural Days.

To ensure cultural accessibility, the Foundation brings its programs and events to Jordanian governorates annually through a comprehensive cultural program for all ages.

This platform advances a culture of innovation by empowering cultural and creative actors to play a stronger role in society. Through targeted grants and support for cultural initiatives and entrepreneurial projects, the Foundation helps turn ideas into meaningful innovations with lasting community impact.

Cultural Grants

Based on the belief that culture is a necessity, not a luxury, the Foundation’s Cultural Grants program serves as a catalyst for the cultural and intellectual landscape in Jordan and Palestine.

Institutional Values

We believe in cultural equity and its vital role in nurturing societies that value knowledge, culture, and science. We strive to strengthen our presence and extend the reach of our programs and services to ensure equitable access — through geographic expansion, active partnerships, and digital outreach.

We believe that change happens through building an effective model that gives due attention to all elements of culture — one that draws inspiration from the authenticity of our heritage through a holistic approach and a spirit of creativity that inspires innovation.

We believe in the importance of community participation and its role in empowering societies to shape their own vision and path toward knowledge. Our programs and activities are rooted in understanding the genuine needs of communities. We foster open and continuous dialogue, uphold respect for diverse opinions and ideas, and work toward consensus on priority-based programs designed to meet the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve.

We believe that meaningful change requires building a successful model for cultural and developmental work — led by a team that believes in its ability to make a difference. A team that is continuously learning, working with sincerity, passion, and excellence; inspired by modernity, adaptable to change, and dedicated to shaping new, dynamic community models capable of impact and leadership.

Work Culture at Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation

Working at Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation means being part of a professional environment that emphasizes innovation, continuous development, creativity, and critical thinking. The Foundation seeks talented individuals who share its vision of promoting cultural and scientific development in Jordan and the Arab world.

Through this work, you will have the opportunity to contribute to projects and initiatives that create a positive societal impact while developing your personal and professional skills.

Our History

Milestones in Our Journey: From Vision to Achievement

Year

1978

1982

1986

1989

1999

2006

2013

2014

2017

2018

2022

2023

2024

2025

1978

Establishment of Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation

Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation was Launched

1982

Launch of Abdul Hameed Shoman Award for Arab Researchers

The first Arab award dedicated to our Arab researchers.

1986

Inauguration of Abdul Hameed Shoman Library

The first fully equipped and computerized public library, established to be more than just a space for reading — a vibrant center for cultural life and lifelong learning.

Launch of the Abdul Hameed Shoman Cultural Forum.

One of the most prominent intellectual and cultural platforms in Jordan and the Arab world, established to be an open and dynamic space for dialogue.

1989

Launch of the Cinema Program.

One of the most prominent intellectual and cultural platforms in Jordan and the Arab world, established to be an open space for dialogue.

1999