Qatar Takes Part in 46th King Abdulaziz International Holy Quran Competition

Makkah: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, is participating in the 46th King Abdulaziz International Competition for the Memorization, Recitation and Interpretation of the Holy Quran, being held at the Grand Mosque in Makkah from August 6 to 19, 2026.

The prestigious international competition has brought together distinguished Quran memorizers from countries around the world, providing a global platform to promote excellence in Quran memorization, recitation and interpretation while encouraging cultural and religious exchange among participants.

Qatar’s delegation is headed by Omar Aqla Al Ruwaili, Head of the Islamic Network Department at the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs. The delegation includes two contestants, accompanied by their instructors, who will compete in two categories of the competition.

The ministry said its participation reflects Qatar’s continued commitment to supporting the Holy Quran and honouring its memorizers while strengthening the country’s presence at major international Quranic events. It also highlights the importance placed on Quranic education within Qatari society and reinforces Islamic values and authentic cultural identity among younger generations.

Speaking on the occasion, Al Ruwaili said the ministry’s participation in the long-standing competition demonstrates the State of Qatar’s unwavering dedication to promoting the Holy Quran, encouraging its memorization and inspiring young Muslims to understand, reflect upon and live according to its teachings.

He added that the ministry remains committed to supporting outstanding Quran memorizers by providing them with opportunities to participate in regional and international competitions, enabling them to refine their skills, gain valuable experience and proudly represent Qatar on the global stage.

Al Ruwaili explained that the two contestants were selected following an extensive process of monitoring, training and preparation. The ministry focused on choosing highly qualified participants capable of competing at the highest level and serving as worthy ambassadors for both the Holy Quran and the State of Qatar.

The participation also reflects the significant progress achieved by Qatar’s Quranic education programmes and the ministry’s ongoing efforts to develop talented memorizers through specialised Quran centres, educational initiatives and local as well as international competitions.

According to the ministry, these initiatives form part of its broader strategy to increase the number of Quran memorizers, strengthen Islamic values across society and contribute to building a generation deeply connected to its religious and cultural heritage.

The 46th King Abdulaziz International Competition is one of the world’s most prestigious Quran competitions, attracting participants from across the globe and celebrating excellence in memorization, recitation and interpretation of the Holy Quran while fostering greater appreciation of Islamic scholarship and values.