Record Participation in Dubai Quran Award’s 29th Edition
The Dubai International Holy Quran Award has witnessed unprecedented participation, receiving over 12,000 entries from 120 countries within just two weeks of opening registrations for its 29th edition, set for the year 1448 AH (2027). This marks a significant increase compared to the previous edition, which saw 5,618 entries from 105 countries.
Strategic Vision Boosts Global Engagement
The notable rise in participation is attributed to the award’s newly introduced strategic vision, “In Search of the Most Beautiful Quran Recitation in the World.” Spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this vision aims to elevate the award’s global profile and attract a diverse array of participants.
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, highlighted the enthusiasm and trust instilled by the enhancements made to the award categories, prize values, and nomination processes.
Diverse Global Participation
This year’s competition has drawn submissions from various regions, including the Arab world, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Such widespread participation underscores the award’s role in promoting Quranic recitation worldwide.
Enhanced Prizes and New Nomination Channels
The 29th edition boasts a prize pool exceeding AED12 million. Notably, the first-place winner in the male over-16 category and both male and female under-16 categories will each be awarded US$1 million. Subsequent winners in these categories will receive US$100,000 and US$50,000, respectively. Additionally, the prestigious Global Quranic Personality of the Year will receive a US$1 million prize.
For the first time, the award allows direct individual nominations, in addition to the traditional routes through home countries and accredited Islamic centers. This change enables participants globally to submit video recitations directly, thereby broadening the scope of entries.
Interactive Final Stages and Ramadan Activities
In another innovative move, finalists will be invited to Dubai, where they will lead Taraweeh prayers at major mosques during Ramadan. This will culminate in public voting to determine the world’s most beautiful Quran recitation, adding an interactive element to the competition.
Registration is open until August 15, 2026, via the award’s official website, www.quran.gov.ae.
A Legacy of Promoting Quranic Excellence
Since its inception, the Dubai International Holy Quran Award has attracted 7,826 participants from 123 countries. Over the years, it has distributed more than AED67 million in prizes and recognized 24 individuals and three institutions with its Global Quranic Personality of the Year Award. This legacy of excellence continues to inspire and promote Quranic scholarship globally.
