Dubai International Holy Quran Award Launches 28th Edition With New Categories And Increased Prize Money

The Dubai International Holy Quran Award is set to launch its 28th edition in 2026 with a fresh vision, "In Search of the Most Beautiful Quran Recitation." This initiative aims to elevate the award's global standing, highlighting Dubai's pivotal role in honouring Quran memorisers worldwide. The prize pool has been increased, with total awards surpassing AED12 million, and first-place winners in each category receiving US$1 million.

For the first time, female participants can compete through a dedicated category. This addition brings the total number of categories to three: full Quran memorisation for males, full Quran memorisation for females, and the Islamic Personality of the Year award. The upcoming edition will also feature expanded international participation and enhanced financial rewards for winners.

The award will see updates in nomination, judging, and evaluation processes. Participants can now be nominated directly or through their country or accredited Islamic centres. These changes were revealed at a press conference held by the Dubai International Holy Quran Award at Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai.

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 support from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He stated that this backing has made the award a prestigious platform for promoting Islam's noble values.

Participants must fully memorise the Holy Quran with proficiency and adhere to Tajweed rules. They should be no older than 16 years at registration (previously 25 years) and not have reached final stages or been honoured in past editions. Adherence to specified testing schedules is also required.

The competition involves three testing stages. Initially, video recitations are evaluated electronically via the award’s website. Successful candidates then undergo remote testing before finalists are invited to Dubai for in-person assessments during Ramadan's second week.

Submission Timeline and Evaluation Phases

Submissions open from 21st May to 20th July. The initial evaluation runs from 1st to 31st July 2025. Remote video evaluations occur between 1st - 30th September, followed by final evaluations during Ramadan's second week.

The judging panel comprises five members including a chairman and vice-chairman, plus a reserve member. Judges must be proficient in Quran memorisation, well-versed in Tajweed rules, and certified in multiple Quran readings if necessary.

Award Categories and Criteria

The third award category is Islamic Personality of the Year. This annual honour goes to an individual or entity significantly serving Islam and Muslims with lasting societal impact. Notable scholarly contributions and a strong reputation as a role model are key criteria for this US$1 million prize.

This edition aims to reinforce Dubai's status as an international hub for recognising excellence in Quranic studies while promoting Islamic values globally.

With inputs from WAM