Dubai has significantly increased the prize money for the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, raising it to a record AED 12 million. This move aims to elevate the competition's standard and attract talented reciters from across the globe. Organizers received 5,618 applications from participants in 105 countries, marking a new record for participation.
The first-place winners in both the male and female categories will each receive $1 million, alongside the Global Quranic Personality award, also set at $1 million. These substantial prizes will set a new global benchmark for Quranic recitation competitions and encourage younger generations to master the sacred texts and Islamic values.
Under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai is reinforcing its position as a global platform for excellence in serving the Holy Quran. The new developmental vision for the award's 28th edition, titled 'In search of the most beautiful Quran recitation for 2026,' represents a qualitative leap in its history and worldwide impact.
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of Dubai's IACAD, emphasized that the prize increase reflects Dubai's belief in strengthening incentives for youth to engage with the Quran. He noted that the high caliber of participants observed during the judging stages confirms the award's success in motivating efforts to enhance recitation performance.
Ibrahim Jassim Al Mansoori, Acting Director of the award, stated that this vision reaffirms Dubai's commitment to serving the Holy Quran. Participants and winners will serve as ambassadors and role models within their communities, establishing a new global standard for excellence and helping to build a generation that preserves its identity.
