ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry is set to host the country’s first ever International Qirat Competition (IQC-2025), with the five-day event beginning in Islamabad today, Monday, Pakistani state media reported.
IQC-2025 brings together Qur’an reciters from more than 40 member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), according to Radio Pakistan broadcaster.
One reciter from Pakistan will also participate in the competition. The judges’ panel comprises three international and five Pakistani jurors.
The event aims to promote the art of Qur’anic recitation while strengthening intercultural and interfaith harmony among Muslim nations.
“The initiative marks a historic moment for Pakistan, positioning it on the global map of Qur’anic recitation,” Pakistan’s renowned Qari and Ministry of Religious Affairs Coordinator Syed Sadaqat Ali was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan.
“The event will not only promote Pakistan’s tradition of Qirat but also motivate the country’s youth to pursue excellence in Qur’anic recitation.”
Qur’an reciters from various participating countries have already been arriving in Pakistan.
According to the official schedule, Group-1 and Group-2 competitions will take place from Nov. 24 to 27 at the Auditorium of the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) in Islamabad.
The grand prize distribution ceremony is set for Nov. 29 at the Jinnah Convention Center, where the winners will be honored. State-level dignitaries are expected to preside over both the inaugural and concluding sessions.
