In a powerful tribute to Quranic scholarship and legacy, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has named Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary as the 2026 International Quranic Personality. The announcement comes as part of the 28th edition of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, one of the world’s most prestigious Quran competitions. The honor recognises not just a voice, but a lifelong service to preserving and perfecting Quranic recitation. Decades after his passing, Sheikh Al-Hussary’s influence continues to shape how millions recite and learn the Holy Qur’an.
Dubai International Holy Quran Award 2026
Founded in 1997 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Dubai International Holy Quran Award was established to promote Quran memorisation, celebrate excellence in recitation, and honour individuals who have significantly served the Qur’an. Over nearly three decades, the award has evolved into a global Islamic platform attracting participants from across continents. The 2026 edition marks its 28th year, continuing its mission to strengthen Quranic culture while adapting to modern outreach and broader participation.The award includes multiple categories, with the International Quranic Personality being one of its highest honours. This title is reserved for individuals whose contributions have had a lasting global impact on Quranic scholarship, memorisation, recitation, or education.
Who is Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary?
Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary was born in Egypt in 1917 and became one of the most revered Quran reciters of the 20th century. He memorised the Qur’an at a young age and later studied advanced Quranic sciences at Al-Azhar institutions. His recitation style became known for its clarity, precision, and strict adherence to tajweed rules.Sheikh Al-Hussary holds the historic distinction of being the first reciter to record the entire Qur’an in a measured murattal style. These recordings set a global standard for accurate recitation and remain widely used in Islamic schools, mosques, and homes around the world. His methodical approach made the Qur’an more accessible for structured learning, particularly for non-Arabic speakers seeking correct pronunciation and articulation.Beyond recordings, he also played a key role in Quran printing and preservation efforts, contributing to projects that ensured the Qur’an’s standardised text and global distribution. His legacy is deeply embedded in modern Quranic education systems.
What does this mean for Islam?
Naming Sheikh Al-Hussary as the 2026 International Quranic Personality is more than symbolic recognition. It reaffirms the importance of precision, authenticity, and disciplined scholarship in Quranic recitation. In an era of rapid digital content and diverse interpretations, honouring a figure known for strict adherence to tajweed reinforces the foundational principles of Quran preservation.The recognition also bridges generations. Many contemporary reciters and teachers were trained using Al-Hussary’s recordings, directly or indirectly. By celebrating his legacy, the award reminds the Muslim world that the beauty of recitation must always be rooted in correctness and knowledge.For Islam globally, this honour highlights the enduring value of service to the Qur’an. It sends a message that safeguarding the text, preserving its recitation standards, and transmitting it accurately remain among the highest forms of contribution to the faith.
Looking ahead
Through the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, Dubai continues to position itself as a global hub for Quranic excellence. By selecting Sheikh Al-Hussary, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has not only honoured a legendary reciter but also spotlighted the timeless responsibility of preserving the Qur’an with accuracy and devotion.The voice of Sheikh Al-Hussary may belong to the past century, but its influence continues to resonate across mosques, classrooms, and households worldwide.
