For the first time, a women's branch has been added to the King Abdulaziz International Quran Competition
In a historic step reflecting the great developments taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud - may God protect him - has graciously approved the addition of a section dedicated to females in the King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorization, Recitation and Interpretation of the Holy Qur’an, starting from its forty-sixth session.
Historical background of the competition
The King Abdulaziz International Holy Quran Competition, first launched in 1399 AH (1979 CE), is one of the most prominent and prestigious Quranic competitions in the world. Organized annually by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, it attracts a select group of Quran memorizers from around the globe. For over four decades, the competition has established itself as a global platform for honorable competition in serving the Holy Quran and encouraging young people to memorize and reflect upon its meanings, making it a dream aspired to by every Quran memorizer.
A historic decision that aligns with Vision 2030
This landmark decision, based on a proposal submitted by His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and General Supervisor of Quranic Competitions, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, represents a significant developmental leap forward for the competition. For the first time since its inception, the competition will open its doors to female participants, providing female Quran memorizers from the Kingdom and around the world with the opportunity to compete in this global Quranic event. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which emphasizes empowering Saudi women and enhancing their role in all fields, including religious and cultural ones, and highlighting their status as essential partners in building and advancing society.
Importance and expected impact
This decision is expected to have a wide-ranging positive impact at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, it reinforces the Kingdom's efforts to promote the Holy Quran for all members of society and encourages girls to memorize it and participate in international competitions. Internationally, this step highlights the Kingdom's progressive image and its global mission to serve Islam and Muslims, emphasizing its comprehensive approach to Quranic studies, encompassing both boys and girls. It will also enrich the competition with new diversity and enhance its global reach.
The Minister of Islamic Affairs affirmed that the Ministry immediately began taking all necessary measures to implement this directive upon receiving the royal approval, and put in place the organizational and technical arrangements to ensure that the women's branch participates in the next session with the highest standards of quality and organization. His Excellency expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince – may God protect them – for their exceptional care and continuous support for all that serves the Holy Quran and its people.
