Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the 29th edition of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, offering more than AED12 million in prizes and opening a new chapter in the emirate's decades-long mission to honor Quran memorisers worldwide.
The launch builds on last year's developmental vision, "In Search of the Most Beautiful Quran Recitation in the World," which repositioned the Award among the most prestigious in the Islamic world. Sheikh Mohammed said the initiative continues a tradition spanning 29 years, aimed at recognising outstanding reciters and praying behind them next Ramadan.
This edition introduces revised categories, now comprising the Male Category for over 16s, a combined Male and Female Category for under 16s, and the Global Quranic Personality award. Winners in the top two categories will each receive US$1 million, as will the Global Quranic Personality honoree.
A notable new feature invites qualifying contestants to Dubai to lead Taraweeh prayers at major mosques, with the public then voting to determine the world's most beautiful recitation. Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Chairman of the Award's Board of Trustees, described the move as extending the competition into genuine community engagement.
Applications open on 7 July and close on 15 August 2026, accepted via www.quran.gov.ae with a passport copy, photograph and a three-minute recitation video. Evaluation stages run through February 2027, culminating in a closing ceremony during the second week of Ramadan.
Since its founding in 1997, the Award has drawn 7,826 contestants from 123 countries, distributed over AED67 million in prizes, and honored 24 individuals and three institutions with its Global Quranic Personality title, cementing Dubai's role as a global hub for Quranic excellence.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
