For the first time since its inception in 1997, the Dubai International Holy Quran Award (DIHQA) is allowing female participants to take part in its prestigious global competition. This historic change comes as the award celebrates nearly three decades of recognizing Quranic excellence.
Over the years, DIHQA has attracted 2,107 participants from 91 countries. Now, in a major shift, all contestants—regardless of gender—can self-nominate through the official website, removing the previous requirement for nomination through their respective countries.
Revamped Categories and Bigger Prize Pool
At a recent press conference, organisers announced a significant restructuring of the competition. DIHQA is now divided into three main categories: the Male Award, the newly introduced Female Award, and the Islamic Personality of the Year Award.
Moreover, the total prize pool has been increased to AED 12 million. First-place winners in both the male and female categories will receive a staggering $1 million each. The second-place prize is $100,000, while third place will receive $50,000. Additionally, the Islamic Personality of the Year Award—open to individuals or organisations—also carries a $1 million prize.
Eligibility and Registration Details
To participate, candidates must be under 16 years of age at the time of registration and must have memorised the Holy Quran with proper tajweed. Previous finalists or honourees are not eligible to apply again.
The competition follows a rigorous three-stage evaluation:
Initial Round: Participants must submit video recitations on the official website from July 1 to July 31, 2025.
Remote Judging: Qualified applicants will move on to a remote evaluation conducted via video calls from September 1 to September 30, 2025.
Final Round in Dubai: Top scorers will be invited to Dubai for in-person assessment during the second week of Ramadan 2026, with winners announced during a grand closing ceremony.
How to Apply
Registration for both male and female categories will be open from May 21 to July 20, 2025, on the official website: www.quran.gov.ae.
A Legacy of Honour and Quranic Service
Launched under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, DIHQA has grown into one of the world’s most respected Quranic competitions. This new inclusion of female participants marks a transformative step forward, expanding the award’s reach and reinforcing Dubai’s status as a beacon of Islamic scholarship and Quranic excellence.
Leave a Reply