Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Quran Competition Winners Honoured in Dubai
Emirates celebrates young Quran memorisers, promoting Islamic values and cultural identity among school students

Dubai Honours Winners of Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Quran Competition
Dubai honoured the winners of the Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Quran Competition for School Students, an event held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. The ceremony also saw the presence of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The competition was organised by the Dubai International Holy Quran Award (DIHQA) in collaboration with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). This initiative aimed to enhance schoolchildren’s comprehension of Islamic teachings and practices by promoting memorization and recitation of the Holy Quran.
At the award ceremony, held at Zayed University, 120 students were recognized for their achievements in a number of categories, including memorizing scientific writings, Tajweed texts, Quranic verses, and beautiful recitation.
. Along with school leaders and the children’ families, important officials attended the celebration, including Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of IACAD, and Aisha Miran, Director-General of KHDA.
The competition is part of the “Ghiras Al Khair” initiative, which focuses on instilling Islamic values, promoting the Arabic language, and strengthening national identity among students.Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi commended the students’ dedication and emphasized how IACAD and KHDA work together to foster community development. He also recognized the contribution that the faculty and staff at the Maktoum Holy Quran and Sciences Centers make to creating an atmosphere that promotes excellence in Quranic studies.
This year’s competition attracted 1,104 students from 32 private schools in Dubai, representing 41 nationalities. The largest group of participants consisted of students from grades one to four, followed by students from grades five to eight, and students from grades nine to twelve. The event also included 20 determined students, five of whom emerged as winners.
The Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Quran Competition is more than just an academic event; it serves as a platform to promote Islamic values and cultural exchange among students from diverse backgrounds. Aisha Miran expressed her appreciation for the dedication shown by the participants and their families, stating that these young learners are becoming ambassadors of Islamic values and setting a positive example for their peers. She also recognised the efforts of school coordinators and teachers in shaping the students’ journey in Quranic studies.
The partnership between IACAD and KHDA has allowed us to continue to enhance Islamic cultural activities in educational institutions and expose students in Dubai to the teachings and principles of the Holy Quran. This annual competition provides young students with a valuable opportunity to enhance their understanding of religious doctrine, as well as foster a sense of connection and patriotism, in line with the UAE’s goal of cultural and educational development.



