The Dubai International Quran Award has announced the selection of the late Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Husari as the global Quranic personality for its 28th session, scheduled for 2026 (1447 AH). This prestigious recognition honors Al-Husari’s remarkable contributions to the field of Quranic science and his significant impact on Quranic recitation across the Islamic world. Acknowledged for his expertise in Tajweed, Al-Husari’s legacy continues to inspire generations, and he will be honored at a ceremony on March 2, 2026, where winners of the most beautiful Quranic recitation will also be celebrated.
The Legacy of Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Husari
This honor reflects the esteemed position of Sheikh Mahmoud Al-Husari, known not only for his vast knowledge but also for his pioneering role in promoting the teachings of the Quran. A towering figure in modern Quranic recitation, Al-Husari was celebrated for his precise performance and the clarity of his recitation. His work laid solid foundations in the principles of Tajweed, making significant educational strides that continue to benefit students of the Quran globally.
Recognition of Contributions
As part of the Dubai International Quran Award, the global Quranic personality branch, valued at one million dollars, stands out. This category, alongside awards for the most beautiful Quranic voice in male and female categories, each also valued at one million dollars, emphasizes the award’s commitment to recognizing exceptional contributions. Ahmed Darwish Al-Mehiri, the Director-General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and Chairman of the Award Board of Trustees, stated that honoring Sheikh Mahmoud Al-Husari embodies the leadership’s vision to celebrate scholars who have made an indelible mark in the service of the Holy Quran.
A Trailblazer in Quranic Recitation
Sheikh Mahmoud Al-Husari was the first to record the Quran in a certified broadcast format according to the rules of Tajweed, allowing his recitations to reach a global audience. His Quranic school became a beacon for readers and students of knowledge, establishing him as a notable figure in Quranic pedagogy. Al-Husari was known for his role as head of the Egyptian Quranic reciters and served as the President of the Committee for Quranic Manuscript Correction.
A Life Dedicated to the Quran
Born on September 17, 1917, in the village of Shubra Al-Namlah in Egypt, Sheikh Al-Husari memorized the Quran by the age of eight. His educational journey continued at Al-Azhar University, where he learned the ten readings of the Quran. His lifetime was dedicated to various roles, culminating in his appointment as the first Sheikh of the Egyptian Quranic reciters in 1961. He also introduced historic recitations at prestigious venues, including the United Nations and the White House.
Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Husari’s efforts significantly advanced the establishment of the first radio station dedicated to the Quran, and he was pivotal in the audio compilation of the Quran. His recordings, including various recitation styles, have left an invaluable legacy of works, most notably “The Rules of Reading the Quran,” and “The Ten Readings from Al-Shatibiyyah and Al-Durra.”
The acknowledgment of Sheikh Mahmoud Al-Husari as the global Quranic personality for the 28th Dubai International Quran Award encapsulates not just his monumental achievements but also a continuing commitment to honor those who have shaped the understanding and appreciation of the Quran throughout history.