Doha, April 29 (QNA) - The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, achieved fifth place in the Kazan International Quran Contest in the Russian Federation. This achievement underscores the significant efforts dedicated to serving the Holy Quran and supporting its memorizers with exceptional voices and mastery of recitation.

Qatar participated in the competition, organized by the Religious Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation from April 20-25, 2026, in the category of recitation with excellent performance and mastery of the maqams (melodic modes). The international competition featured a distinguished group of reciters from around the world.

Representing Qatar in the competition was Abdullah Hamad Salem Abu Sherida, who delivered a commendable performance, reflecting the advanced level achieved by Qatari participants in Quranic recitation and their mastery of vocal performance and maqams. This resulted in his securing fifth place overall in the competition.

The Qatari delegation was headed by Assistant Director of the Mosques Department at the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani.

Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani affirmed that Qatar's participation in this contest has been consistent for years, including this edition. He noted that the event enjoys the support of the Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani Noble Quran Competition, as part of its ongoing support for international Quranic competitions. This support aims to encourage Muslims worldwide to engage with the Holy Quran through memorization, recitation, and contemplation.

He explained that this support aligns with the mission of the Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani Noble Quran Competition, which seeks to nurture Quranic talent, elevate recitation standards, and enhance Qatar's Quranic presence on the global stage.

He noted that the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, represented by the Department of Da'wah and Religious Guidance, places great importance on training reciters, refining their skills, and supporting their participation in international Quranic competitions. This also reflects Qatar's commitment to serving the Holy Quran and its people. He emphasized that these efforts align with the state's vision of caring for the Holy Quran and solidifying its presence in the lives of individuals and communities.

This achievement embodies the Ministry of Endowments' ongoing efforts to cultivate a distinguished generation of skilled reciters capable of representing Qatar in the best possible way at international Quranic events, raising its flag high in the fields of memorization, recitation, mastery, and beautiful voice and performance. (QNA)