Maldivian Student Places Fourth in World's Largest Quran Recitation Competition

A Maldivian student has achieved a historic milestone by securing fourth place in the Quran memorization category at the 46th edition of the world's premier Quran recitation competition in Makkah. Al-Hafiza Fathimath Shaya Zahir represented the Maldives in a highly competitive field featuring participants from 133 nations. For her achievement, Zahir was awarded a prize of 170,000 Saudi Riyals. The competition concluded with a prestigious ceremony at the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Harām). The event was attended by high-ranking dignitaries, including the Deputy Emir of Makkah, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, and Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Abdullatif Al-Asheikh. The Imam of the Grand Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, also attended alongside the Maldivian Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, who participated as a special guest. Minister Shaheem praised Zahir's performance via social media, describing the placement as a great honor for the nation. He specifically highlighted the significance of this year's competition, noting that it marked the first time a dedicated category for female participants was included, reflecting a move toward greater inclusivity in the global event. Following the official ceremony, Saudi Minister Al-Asheikh met with Zahir and her parents to personally congratulate her. He encouraged the young student to remain dedicated to the study and memorization of the Quran. The result marks one of the highest rankings ever achieved by a Maldivian representative in this global competition, underscoring the Maldives' growing presence in international religious scholarship and recitation.