King Faisal Prize (KFP) was initiated by the King Faisal Foundation (KFF) inspired by its humanitarian objectives and its commitment to preserve the true Islamic values which King Faisal, may Allah have mercy upon him, stood for. These values and principles, held dearly by the late King Faisal, are firmly enshrined in the statute of the Prize. KFF established the KFP as a lofty expression and reflection of late King Faisal untiring support for endeavors slated to alleviate human suffering through the advancement of research and creative human thinking. These are core values which the late King Faisal passionately upheld, besides his respect for knowledge, empathy with scholars, and his recognition of their contributions to the advancement of nations. He strongly believed that progress of his nation and his countrymen cannot be achieved without a resolute acquisition of knowledge that is commensurate with the values and teachings of Islam, as well as an in-depth understanding of human history and a genuine appreciation of the foundations in which the Islamic civilization is grounded, along with the conducive factors that helped this civilization blossom and thrive, and positively contribute to universal human civilization. KFP is driven by objectives animated by this thorough human perception, emanating from the cradle of the Islamic message, a land to which the hearts of Muslims throughout the world are attached, a land founded on the principles of this message and ruled by its values. These features endow the Prize with a distinct prestige among peer prizes that seek to motivate scientists and thinkers and encourage them to pursue further scientific and intellectual accomplishments that benefit humanity and help foster a better and brighter civilization. This year, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of KFP as it firmly wades its way towards its prestigious position among leading international prizes. The Prize takes special pride in being widely recognized for being impartial and independent of all political, sectarian, racial and religious considerations. We pray to the Almighty Allah to preserve our country’s security and stability. May this country continue its noble mission under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Supreme President of King Faisal Philanthropic Foundation. May Allah guide us all to that which benefits Islam and Muslims and contributes to the advancement and progress of mankind. May Allah make our aspirations come true!