Saudi-backed Quran Contest in Eastern Europe Draws 2,350 Participants

Saudi-backed Quran contest in Eastern Europe unites 2,350 participants across 22 nations

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs of Saudi Arabia has concluded the preliminary qualifiers for an international Holy Quran memorization contest in Eastern Europe, marking a milestone in its third edition.

Organized in partnership with the Islamic Sheikdom of Kosovo and supported by the Saudi Embassy in Albania, the event brought together 2,350 participants from 22 countries across the region and beyond.

Competitors represented a diverse range of nations, including Kosovo, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Turkiye, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Georgia, Belarus, and Russia.

Other countries like Italy, Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Estonia also participated.

From the initial pool, 160 participants have advanced to the final round.

The finals, set to be held from May 8 to 11 in Pristina, Kosovo’s capital, will feature competitors across five categories, vying for prizes totaling SAR500,000 (133,000 USD)

The event, which has an estimated organizational cost of SAR1.2 million (320,000 USD), aims to promote Quranic learning and values across Eastern Europe.

Sheikh Naim Ternava, grand mufti and head of the Islamic sheikdom in Kosovo, lauded Saudi Arabia’s consistent support for Islamic education and cultural initiatives. He highlighted that the ministry of Islamic affairs’ efforts are geared towards fostering a balanced understanding of Islam and strengthening the teachings of the Holy Quran.

“These initiatives are vital in promoting a moderate and inclusive approach to Islam, particularly in Kosovo, and resonate with communities across Eastern Europe,” Sheikh Ternava said.

The collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Eastern European nations reflects their shared dedication to enhancing religious education and cultural exchange.

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