The inaugural Emirates International Holy Quran Award recently took place at the Majlis Mohamed bin Zayed in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant event in the promotion and celebration of the Holy Quran. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, who honoured the winners. Among the notable recipients in the International Category were UAE’s Sheikha Alia bint Saeed Maktoum Rashid Al Maktoum and Rashid Ali Khalfan Binkhalaf Al Naqbi, alongside winners from Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, Mauritania, Palestine, and Nigeria.
In the local category, UAE nationals such as Suhaib Ali Mohammed Dawood Abdullah, Omar Mohamed Ali Alkabouri AlNaqbi, Omar Muammar Ali Ahmed Ba Nabila, and Aisha Ali Mohamed Alechla Al Ali were recognized for their achievements. Additionally, international participants from Bangladesh, Egypt, Syria, and Mauritania received awards. The ceremony highlighted the UAE’s commitment to promoting the Holy Quran, reflecting the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan through initiatives like the establishment of Quranic centres.
The event began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Ghaniya Ali Al-Azizi, followed by a short film showcasing the UAE’s efforts in serving the Quran. Mona Abdulqader Salem AlGhassani was honoured for her 20 years of service in promoting the Holy Quran, while the Emirates Red Crescent was recognized as a supporting entity of the award. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowment & Zakat (AWQAF) organized the event, which celebrated winners from 10 countries who secured first place in various Quranic competitions held globally in 2024.
The Emirates International Holy Quran Award serves as a testament to the UAE’s dedication to preserving and promoting Islamic heritage. It underscores the country’s role in fostering a global community that values the teachings and memorization of the Holy Quran. The award ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the UAE’s broader initiatives in supporting Quranic education and memorization.
The event’s significance extends beyond the awards themselves, as it reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to promote cultural and religious understanding. By honouring individuals from diverse backgrounds, the Emirates International Holy Quran Award reinforces the importance of unity and shared values in the global Islamic community.
