Record Participation in Dubai Quran Award
The Dubai International Holy Quran Award has witnessed an unprecedented level of participation, drawing over 12,000 entries from 120 countries within just two weeks of opening its registration for the 29th edition, scheduled for 1448 AH-2027. This marks a significant increase compared to the 5,618 applicants from 105 countries in the previous edition.
Vision for Global Quranic Excellence
The surge in participation aligns with the award’s newly launched vision, “In Search of the Most Beautiful Quran Recitation in the World,” championed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This initiative represents a transformative step in enhancing the global appeal and prestige of the competition.
Leadership Insights
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the award, commented on the remarkable response. He noted that the surge in entries is a testament to the confidence instilled by recent enhancements to the award’s categories, prize structures, and nomination processes.
Global Reach and Prize Expansion
This year’s competition has attracted participants from a diverse array of regions, including the Arab world, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The prize pool has been significantly expanded, now exceeding AED12 million. The first-place winner in the male over-16 category, along with the winners in the male and female under-16 categories, will each receive US$1 million. The second and third-place winners in each category will be awarded US$100,000 and US$50,000, respectively. Additionally, the Global Quranic Personality of the Year will also receive US$1 million.
Innovative Participation Process
For the first time, the award has introduced direct individual nominations, alongside nominations from home countries and accredited Islamic centers. This allows aspiring participants to submit their Quranic recitations directly via video, broadening the accessibility of the competition.
Cultural and Religious Engagement
An innovative feature of this edition is the opportunity for finalists to lead Taraweeh prayers at prominent mosques in Dubai during Ramadan. This will culminate in a public voting stage to determine the most beautiful Quran recitation globally. This enhancement not only elevates the spiritual experience but also engages the broader community in celebrating Quranic artistry.
Continuing Legacy
The Dubai International Holy Quran Award, in its 28 previous editions, has drawn 7,826 participants from 123 countries, distributing over AED67 million in prizes. Additionally, 24 individuals and three institutions have been honored with the Global Quranic Personality of the Year Award, underscoring the award’s longstanding impact on the global Quranic community.
Opportunities and Future Prospects
Registration for this landmark edition remains open until August 15, 2026, accessible via the award’s official website, www.quran.gov.ae. This extended timeline provides ample opportunity for a diverse array of participants to engage with the competition, fostering a future of enriched Quranic recitation and scholarship on a global scale.
