UAE President Honours Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid as First Recipient of the Emirates International Holy Quran Award
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has praised the initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, for his efforts in promoting human values inspired by the principles of Islam.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s remarks came as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was named the first-ever recipient of the Emirates International Holy Quran Award – Personality of the Year for 2025. This prestigious honour recognizes his exceptional contributions to the service of the Holy Quran and its reciters both locally and globally.
During a ceremony at Sheikh Zayed’s farm in Al Khawaneej, Dubai, His Highness the President presented Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid with a special edition of the Mushaf of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Additionally, he gifted a framed photograph of the two leaders with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and a signed letter expressing appreciation for Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s dedication to the Holy Quran, his support for Quranic competitions, and his commitment to promoting the Arabic language.
The meeting was attended by several distinguished leaders, including His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman; His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah; His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain; and His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, Sheikhs, ministers, and senior officials were also present.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has made significant contributions to the Holy Quran, particularly through the Dubai International Quran Award, which includes several key initiatives such as the Islamic Personality of the Year Award, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Mushaf, and various Quranic competitions. Additionally, he established the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Printing the Holy Quran and has played a crucial role in the development of Quranic institutions and academies.
The Emirates International Holy Quran Award was launched by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of His Highness the UAE President. This award underscores the UAE’s commitment to supporting Quranic education and recognizing outstanding global figures in the field. The award includes three main categories:
- International First Place Quran Award – Recognizing top male and female contestants worldwide.
- National First Place Quran Award – Honouring national talents across all emirates.
- First International Quran Award and Honouring of a Global Quranic Personality – Recognizing an outstanding Quranic figure or institution.
This initiative further reinforces the UAE’s dedication to fostering Quranic excellence and nurturing talents committed to preserving the Holy Quran.
