King Abdulaziz International Quran Competition Serves as Global Beacon for Holy Quran, Bridge of Communication among Nations

King Abdulaziz International Competition for the Holy Quran Memorization, Recitation, and Interpretation, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, embodies the wise leadership's approach in caring for the Holy Quran and its people, honoring its status, and supporting all efforts to promote its teaching and dissemination.
 The competition has advanced in technology, expanded in the number of participants and countries, and increased in prize value. The introduction of an electronic judging system in 2019 marked a major shift in the competition. In the current session, the system has been further developed to become more accurate and faster in calculating scores, linking results to an electronic judging board, and creating comprehensive questions that ensure fairness and transparency in evaluation. This reflects a forward-looking vision in employing modern technology to serve the competition and achieve the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
 Over the past seven years, the competition has witnessed remarkable growth. In its 40th session in 1440 AH, 109 contestants from 73 countries took part, with prizes totaling SAR1.145 million. In the 41st session in 1441 AH, the number rose to 147 contestants from 103 countries, with prizes amounting to SAR1.185 million. In the 42nd session in 1444 AH, there were 153 contestants from 111 countries, with prizes reaching SAR2.7 million. The 43rd session in 1445 AH saw 166 contestants from 117 countries, with prizes totaling SAR4 million. In the 44th session in 1446 AH, 174 contestants from 123 countries competed, with the prize value maintained at SAR4 million. This year, in the 45th session, the number of participants increased to 179 contestants from 128 countries, with the prize value standing at SAR4 million, including a record first-place award of SAR500,000.
 With this growing global presence, generous prizes that increase over the years, and strong support from the wise leadership, the competition continues to enhance its position as a global beacon in serving the Holy Quran and as a bridge of communication among nations.