Dubai International Holy Quran Award Chooses 525 Reciters for Next Round
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
Dubai: The Dubai International Holy Quran Award, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has finished the first round of judging for its 28th edition (2026).
This year, a record 5,618 people from 105 countries applied, with 30% of them women. After reviewing recordings sent in July, judges selected 525 reciters – 373 men and 152 women – to move to the second round.
The judging was based on Tajweed rules (the correct way of reading the Quran) and overall recitation quality. The next stage will be live video evaluations with a panel of expert judges.
Big changes this year include:
- Over AED 12 million in total prizes
- US $1 million each for the best male and female reciter
- A new women’s category so female participants can compete
- The option for individuals to apply directly, not only through their country or Islamic centres
Top countries in the second round include: Bangladesh (81 participants), Pakistan (48), Indonesia (45), Egypt (35), India (27), Libya (24), USA (20), Mauritania (13), and Yemen (13).
Officials said the award’s goal is to find the most beautiful Quran recitation and to make Dubai a global centre for Quran reciters and scholars. The final stage will take place in Dubai during the second week of Ramadan.
