In a tribute to Quranic scholarship and legacy, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum appointed Mahmoud Khalil al-Housari as the International Quranic Personality of the Year 2026. The announcement is part of the 28th Dubai International Quran Awards, one of the world’s most prestigious Quran competitions. The honor recognizes not just a voice but a lifetime of contribution to the preservation and perfection of Quranic recitation. Decades after his death, Sheikh Hussari’s influence continues to influence the way millions of people recite and learn the Qur’an.
Dubai International Quran Awards 2026
The Dubai International Quran Awards were founded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid in 1997 to promote Quranic memorization, recognize excellence in recitation and honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Quran. Over nearly three decades, the Prize has grown into a global Islamic platform, attracting participants from all continents. The 2026 edition marks its 28th anniversary and continues its mission of strengthening Quranic culture while adapting to modern promotion and wider engagement.The award includes several categories, with the International Qur’anic Personality Award being one of its highest honours. This title is reserved for individuals who have made a lasting global impact on Quranic scholarship, memorization, recitation, or education.
Who is Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil al-Housari?
Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary was born in Egypt in 1917 and became one of the most respected Quran reciters of the 20th century. He memorized the Quran at a young age and later learned advanced Quranic science at Al-Azhar Institution. His recitation style was known for its clarity, precision and strict adherence to the rules of Tajweed.Sheikh Al-Hussary holds the historic distinction of being the first reciter to record the entire Quran in the rigorous mulatta style. These recordings set the global standard for accurate recitation and are widely used in madrasas, mosques and homes around the world. His methodical approach makes structured study of the Quran easier, especially for non-Arabic speakers seeking correct pronunciation and pronunciation.In addition to recordings, he played a key role in the printing and preservation of the Qur’an, contributing to projects that ensured a standardized text and worldwide distribution of the Qur’an. His legacy is deeply embedded in the modern system of Qur’anic education.
What does this mean for Islam?
The appointment of Sheikh Al-Hussary as the International Quranic Personality of the Year 2026 is more than just symbolic recognition. It reaffirms the importance of accuracy, truthfulness and rigorous scholarship in the recitation of the Quran. In an era of rapid development of digital content and diverse interpretations, paying tribute to a figure known for his strict observance of Tajweed reinforces the fundamental principles of the preservation of the Quran.This recognition also bridges generations. Many contemporary reciters and teachers have been trained, directly or indirectly, in the use of Alhusari’s recordings. By celebrating his legacy, the award reminds the Muslim world that the beauty of recitation must always be rooted in correctness and knowledge.For global Islam, this honor highlights the enduring value of service to the Quran. It conveys the message that preserving the text, preserving its standards of recitation and transmitting it accurately remain the highest forms of contribution to the faith.
Looking to the future
Through the Dubai International Quran Awards, Dubai continues to position itself as a global center of Quranic excellence. By choosing Sheikh Al-Husari, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid not only paid tribute to a legendary reciter, but also emphasized the eternal responsibility to preserve the Quran accurately and reverently.Sheikh Hussari’s voice may belong to the last century, but its influence still resonates in mosques, classrooms and homes around the world.
