Dubai Int’l Holy Quran Award Receives Over 5,600 Global Applications for 2026 Edition
Organizers of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award (DIHQA) have announced a significant increase in participation for the 28th edition scheduled for 2026, receiving 5,618 applications from Quran memorizers in 105 countries across all continents, according to Emirati media reports.
Around 30% of the entries were submitted by female participants, who are included in a dedicated category for the first time.
Applications were accepted from May 21 to July 20. The preliminary assessment phase began in early July and will continue through the end of the month. Qualified participants will proceed to the second round in September, which will involve virtual evaluations with judges.
Finalists are expected to compete in person during the second week of Ramadan 1447 AH in Dubai.
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Ibrahim Jassim Al Mansouri, acting director of DIHQA, stated that the largest number of applicants came from Egypt (1,410), followed by Pakistan, Indonesia, India, and Morocco. Entries were also submitted from Muslim communities in the U.S., Canada, Russia, and several European countries, as well as nations in Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
This edition introduces structural changes aimed at broadening international participation. These include direct individual applications alongside nominations by recognized Islamic centers or official entities. The total prize pool now exceeds AED 12 million, with USD 1 million awarded to the top male and female contestants respectively.
Officials say the new format is part of a long-term development plan designed to expand the award’s reach and promote engagement with the Quran through memorization, recitation, and understanding.
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