HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, praised the initiatives and efforts of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, in promoting humanitarian values inspired by the principles of Islam.
This recognition comes as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was named the Emirates International Holy Quran Award – Personality of the Year for 2025. The award honors his contributions to the Holy Quran, its reciters, and memorizers both locally and internationally.
To mark the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed presented a special edition of the “Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Quran” to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Along with a framed photo of them together with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and a signed letter expressing gratitude for his dedication to the Quran, support for its memorization, printing, competitions, and promotion of the Arabic language.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Praises Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Efforts
During a meeting at Sheikh Zayed farm in Al Khawaneej, Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed praised Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid efforts in the UAE’s progress and humanitarian initiatives, saying:
“My brother Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s efforts in serving the Holy Quran are an inspiration and a reflection of Sheikh Zayed’s legacy in upholding Islamic values and ethics.”
He later shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account:
“The efforts of my brother Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid in honoring the Quran and its people are a guiding light, continuing the legacy of our father, Sheikh Zayed.”
Deep Appreciation
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid expressed his deep appreciation for the honor bestowed upon him, stating on his official X account:
“The recognition by my brother Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed for our service to the Holy Quran as part of the UAE International Quran Award is an honor I cherish and a responsibility we continue to uphold.
Serving the Book of Allah is a privilege, a blessing, and a guiding principle in our lives and our country.”
“I say to my brother Mohammed bin Zayed: May Allah illuminate your heart, guide your path, and bless your country and people for your service to the Quran.”

What are Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Initiatives for the Quran ?
His Highness has launched numerous initiatives dedicated to the Quran, including Dubai International Quran Award, Mohammed bin Rashid Quran Printing Center and Establishment of Quranic centers and institutes.
Dubai International Quran Award alone features:
- Islamic Personality of the Year Award
- Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Mushaf
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Quran Manuscripts Center
- International Quran Competition
- Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak International Quran Competition (for women)
- Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Quran Competition
- Best Quran Recitation Contest
- Local Quran Memorization Contest
- Quran Memorization Programs in Correctional Facilities
- Islamic lectures, research, and studies
- Teaching Quranic recitations
On the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan this year, the UAE has launched a set of Ramadan initiatives and campaigns across continents that embody its position as a global capital of goodness and humanity, and highlight the values of mercy, tolerance and giving rooted in all… pic.twitter.com/GiNCCp91zv
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) March 4, 2025
Emirates International Quran Award
The Emirates International Holy Quran Award was launched in Abu Dhabi.
By the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat, under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed.
The award underscores the UAE’s commitment to nurturing Quranic talents and honoring exceptional memorization and recitation skills globally.
It includes three main categories:
- International First Place Award for Quran Memorization
- Local First Place Award for Quran Memorization
- Global Quranic Personality Award
This recognition highlights the UAE’s dedication to promoting Islamic values, preserving the Holy Quran, and honoring those who serve it, reflecting the vision of its founding leaders and current leadership.