Rahman received the award at the opening ceremony of the Forum`s annual meet here, attended by 2500 global leaders from business, government, art, culture and religion.

Rahman, 44, clad in an embroidered black kurta, received the award which is given annually by the WEF to outstanding artistes who use their talent for social and charitable work.

While the WEF recognised Rahman for his music in `Slumdog Millionaire` and `Bombay Dreams`, it took note of his work in the field of child welfare.