Dubai: The Dubai International Holy Quran Award has announced the selection of the late reciter Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Husary as the Global Quranic Personality for its 28th edition, scheduled for 2026 (1447H).
According to Emirates News Agency, this prestigious recognition honors Sheikh Al-Husary's enduring scholarly contributions to the Quranic sciences and his significant impact in the field of Tajweed, as well as his influence across the Islamic world. The ceremony to recognize him and the winners of the most beautiful Quran recitation will be held on March 2, 2026.
This accolade underscores Sheikh Al-Husary's esteemed status and his pioneering role in serving the Holy Quran. Renowned for his precision and clarity in recitation, he was a leading figure among modern Quranic reciters, having established strong foundations in the rules of Tajweed.
The Global Quranic Personality Award, valued at $1 million, is part of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award categories, alongside awards for the most beautiful Quran recitation in both male and female categories, each also valued at $1 million.
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, emphasized that selecting Sheikh Al-Husary aligns with the leadership's vision to honor scholars who have made significant contributions to the Holy Quran. He noted that this recognition reflects decades of dedication by Sheikh Al-Husary, who established a unique school of recitation and mastery, benefiting generations worldwide.
Sheikh Al-Husary was the first to produce an officially approved radio recording of the recited Mushaf, contributing to the global spread of his recitation. Born on September 17, 1917, in Egypt, and passing away on November 24, 1980, he memorized the Holy Quran before age eight and studied the ten Qira'at at Al-Azhar.
His career included appointments as the inspector of Egyptian Quran recitation centers, deputy of the Egyptian Recitation Council, and Chief of Egyptian Reciters. He was the first to recite the Quran at notable international venues, including the United Nations and the Royal Palace in London.
Sheikh Al-Husary played a pivotal role in establishing the first Holy Quran radio station and was instrumental in audio compilations of the Quran. His scholarly legacy includes significant works on Quranic recitation and Tajweed, which continue to guide reciters and scholars.