UAE President Commends Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid for Contributions to the Holy Quran
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has praised the initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, for promoting human values inspired by Islamic principles. His commendations coincide with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid being named the first-ever recipient of the Emirates International Holy Quran Award – Personality of the Year for 2025.
This prestigious award recognizes Sheikh Mohammed’s exceptional contributions to the Holy Quran and its reciters both locally and globally. In a ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed presented Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid with a special edition of the Mushaf and a framed photograph of the two leaders with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Recognition of Service
Along with the presentation, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed his appreciation in a signed letter, acknowledging Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s dedicated service to the Holy Quran, including his efforts in honoring reciters, publishing copies of the Quran, supporting Quranic competitions, and promoting the Arabic language.
During their meeting at Sheikh Zayed’s farm in Al Khawaneej, Dubai, Sheikh Mohamed emphasized Sheikh Mohammed’s vital role in advancing the nation and supporting its people. He described Sheikh Mohammed’s contributions as a defining feature of the UAE’s progress and an inspiration for human advancement and prosperity.
Distinguished Attendees
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including:
- His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah
- His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman
- His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah
- His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Ruler of Umm Al Qawain
- His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah
- Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers
- Several Sheikhs, ministers, and senior officials
Contributions to the Holy Quran
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has made remarkable contributions to the Holy Quran, particularly through the Dubai International Quran Award, which includes several key initiatives:
- Islamic Personality of the Year Award
- Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Mushaf
- Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Quranic Manuscripts
- International Quran Competition
- Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak International Quran Competition for Women
- Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Quran Competition
- Most Beautiful Recitation Competition
- National Quran Memorisation Competition
- Quran Memorisation Programme for Inmates in Correctional Facilities
- Quranic lectures, seminars, and research studies
- Qira’at (Recitations) teaching programmes
Additionally, he established the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Printing the Holy Quran and has significantly contributed to the growth of Quranic institutions and academies.
Emirates International Holy Quran Award
The inaugural edition of 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 reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting the Quran at both local and international levels, nurturing national talents, and recognizing exceptional figures in the field.
Award Sections
The award includes three main sections:
- International First Place Quran Award: This section involves rigorous criteria with 10 male and female contestants recognized for their achievements in international competitions.
- National First Place Quran Award: This section highlights national talents, with 86 participants recognized as winners in the 2024 cycle.
- First International Quran Award and Honoring of a Global Quranic Personality: This section recognizes distinguished Quranic figures or institutions.
