Dubai:The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Holy Quran Competition has successfully concluded its 27th edition with significant participation from 2,750 male and female contestants across the UAE. This marks a notable 58% increase in participation compared to the previous year, underscoring the competition’s expanding influence and significance among diverse age groups in the community.
According to Emirates News Agency, the competition is organized by the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, under the auspices of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, with the continued support of H.H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum. The latest edition saw the participation of 1,357 females and 1,273 males, demonstrating a near-equal gender distribution. Emirati citizens made up 74% of the participants, with 1,944 individuals, alongside residents from various nationalities.
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 the foundational role of H.H. Sheikha Hind's patronage in creating a sustainable Quranic event. He highlighted the competition’s reputation as a highly anticipated event for both Emirati and non-Emirati families, aiming to advance in Quranic recitation and memorization.
Al Muhairi expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikha Hind for her ongoing support, which has enhanced the competition's impact on the community. The increase in participation is seen as a testament to the value placed on Quranic programs for personal development and community cohesion. He also acknowledged the contributions of families, teachers, and organizing teams in the competition’s success.
The competition’s 27th edition introduced developments across its branches, categories, and criteria, with the Juz Amma memorization category attracting the highest number of registrants. Other categories such as Best Voice, and various memorization levels, catered to different age groups and skills.
Dr. Ali Hassan Al Marzouqi, Director of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, noted the importance of encouraging initial participation levels and praised the community's dedication to Quranic learning. Winners will be honored in a ceremony during Ramadan, further motivating participants in their Quranic pursuits.
The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Holy Quran Competition continues to solidify its status as a leading Quranic initiative, with an inclusive approach to engaging participants of varying abilities and levels.