Undersecretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs H E Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al Thani, alongside senior officials and cultural figures during the event.
Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has officially launched the second edition of the Qatar International Arabic Calligraphy Competition, “Al Raqim,” reaffirming Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its position as a global hub for Islamic arts, culture, and intellectual exchange.
The launch was announced during a press conference held yesterday, attended by Undersecretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs H E Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al Thani, alongside senior officials, cultural figures, calligraphers, and experts from Qatar and abroad.
The competition is organised by the Ministry’s Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center in partnership with the Museum of Islamic Art under Qatar Museums. The collaboration reflects a shared national effort to preserve Islamic heritage while promoting its contemporary relevance through culture and the arts.
A major highlight of this year’s edition is its focus on the theme of “Mercy”, selected as the central concept for the competition’s texts. Organisers described the theme as a universal humanitarian value deeply rooted in the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah, carrying messages of compassion, tolerance, and coexistence that resonate across cultures.
The competition aims to transform Arabic calligraphy from a visual art form into a powerful cultural message by inspiring artists to interpret Quranic verses and prophetic traditions related to mercy through creative calligraphic works. The initiative aligns with Qatar’s broader vision of promoting intercultural dialogue and fostering understanding among peoples through art and culture.
Speaking at the event, Director of the Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center and Chairman of the Organising Committee Dr. Saleh bin Ali Al Akhn Al Marri, said the second edition represents a significant step forward in the development of Al Raqim. He noted that the competition was refined following a comprehensive evaluation of the first edition and now offers greater opportunities for artistic growth and international engagement.
Dr. Al Marri described Al Raqim as an evolving cultural project that combines the aesthetic beauty of Arabic script with the depth of Islamic values. He stressed that the initiative plays a key role in discovering emerging talent, encouraging innovation, and ensuring the continuity of Arabic calligraphy across generations.
He added that prize money exceeding QR1m, among the highest globally for Arabic calligraphy competitions, underscores Qatar’s commitment to supporting the art form and attracting leading calligraphers from around the world.
Director of the Museum of Islamic Art Sheikha bint Nasser Al Nasr, said the museum’s participation reflects its mission to preserve Islamic heritage and showcase its richness to global audiences. She described Arabic calligraphy as one of the most prominent expressions of Islamic civilization, combining artistic beauty with intellectual and cultural significance.
The competition features five categories: Jali Thuluth with Thuluth, Naskh, Jali Nastaliq, Jali Diwani, and Mushafi Kufic. Entries will be evaluated by an international jury based on criteria including technical mastery, adherence to calligraphic rules, artistic composition, and innovation.
Held biennially and open to participants aged 18 and above from around the world, Al Raqim continues to establish itself as a leading international platform where artistic excellence, cultural heritage, and universal values converge, further strengthening Qatar’s growing role in the global cultural landscape.
