Dubai International Holy Quran Award Draws Record 20,500 Applications from 135 Countries
UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM – August 19, 2026
DUBAI: The Dubai International Holy Quran Award has received a record 20,500 applications from 135 countries for its 29th edition in 2027, marking the broadest international participation in the award’s history.
This significant milestone is attributed to the award’s comprehensive developmental vision titled "In Search of the Most Beautiful Quran Recitation in the World," which has revitalized the award through:
- Direct personal applications alongside traditional nomination processes.
- The introduction of the largest prize package in its history, exceeding AED12 million.
- Updates to categories, eligibility criteria, evaluation methods, and participation mechanisms.
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award board of trustees, stated that:
"The vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has transformed Dubai into a center for an unprecedented global movement dedicated to learning, memorizing, mastering, and promoting the Holy Quran."
He further noted that this international participation, exceeding all expectations, confirms the award’s new vision’s impact on a vast geographical and human landscape worldwide.
Key Findings:
- Egypt led with 6,838 applications, followed by Indonesia (1,923), Pakistan (1,862), and Syria (1,511).
- The Male Category (Over 16 years old) received 14,040 applications.
- The Male and Female Category (Under 16 years old) attracted 6,495 applications, including 2,394 female applicants.
First-place winners in the respective categories will receive substantial prizes: US$1 million for the Male Category (Over 16 years old), and yet to be announced for other categories.
