Zagreb: The State of Qatar participated in the 3rd European International Quran memorization competition and the 4th generation Quran competition, held in Croatia. Organized by the Croatian Islamic Community, in collaboration with the Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani Holy Quran Competition of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, the event was a significant international gathering.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Qatari delegation was led by Jassim Abdullah Al Ali, Director of the Department of Da’wah and Religious Guidance at the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs. The delegation included jury member Yousef Hassan Al Hammadi and Mohammed Ahmed Al Haram, Qatar’s representative in the entire Quran memorization category.
The Islamic Cultural Center in Rijeka, built with Qatar’s support over a decade ago, hosted the competition, which attracted participants from 20 countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The event provided a global platform for Quran memorization and recitation, facilitating the exchange of expertise and experiences.
During the opening ceremony, Dr. Aziz Hasanovic, Mufti of Croatia, along with Islamic Center officials, commended Qatar’s role in supporting Quranic projects worldwide. The International Senior Quran Memorization Competition, focusing on participants over 35, is a rare initiative that connects memorizers to the Holy Quran throughout their lives.
The competition spanned two days and included cultural and community visits to foster cultural exchange. Muhammad Abdi from Sweden won first place, while Othman Najdeh from Lebanon and Barry Suleiman Abu Bakr from Guinea secured second and third places, respectively.
The following day, the Quran Generation Competition was held for children and youth, with approximately 300 students from various Croatian cities participating. The event saw significant interest from families and the local community, featuring Quranic recitations, hymns, and educational activities.
This involvement is part of Qatar’s initiatives to elevate the status of the Holy Quran globally, supporting international competitions and Quranic centers. Qatar’s participation underscores the Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani Holy Quran Competition as a global platform for collaboration with Quranic competitions worldwide, fostering bonds between people under the Holy Quran’s umbrella.
Participating countries in the Senior Memorizers Category included Croatia, Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and several others, showcasing a diverse representation.