A Maldivian student has earned a historic fourth‑place finish in the Quran memorisation category at the 46th edition of the world’s largest Quran recitation competition, held in the holy city of Makkah.
Al‑Hafiza Fathimath Shaya Zahir, representing the Maldives, was announced among the top four contestants out of participants from 133 nations, securing a prize of 170,000 Saudi Riyals.
The competition, described by the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, as the largest Quran recitation competition in the world, concluded with a special ceremony at the Grand Mosque (Masjid al‑Harām).
The event was attended by Deputy Emir of Makkah Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Abdullatif Al‑Asheikh, and the Imam of the Grand Mosque, Sheikh Dr Abdul Rahman Al‑Sudais, who joined’ Minister Shaheem as a special guest.
In a social‑media post, Minister Shaheem praised the achievement, stating that a participant representing the Maldives winning a position in this competition is a great honour for the nation. He also noted that this year marked the first time a female category was included, underscoring the competition’s evolving inclusivity.
After the ceremony, Minister Al‑Asheikh met with Shaya and her parents, offering congratulations and encouragement for her continued dedication to Quran memorisation.