JAKARTA – The Iranian government has designated Sanandaj, the provincial capital of Kurdistan, as the host city for the concluding stage of the nation’s 48th National Holy Quran Competition. Spanning from October 18-28, 2025, the event will showcase 330 finalists from provinces nationwide, making it one of the country’s most important religious and cultural gatherings.

Organized under the auspices of the Awqaf and Charity Affairs Organization, this annual competition serves multiple purposes: advancing Quranic knowledge, honoring spiritual excellence, and strengthening bonds across Iran’s diverse population.

A Comprehensive Competition Format

The National Holy Quran Competition stands as Iran’s foremost religious event, attracting contestants from varied regions and backgrounds. Participants demonstrate their abilities across multiple disciplines including recitation, memorization, the call to prayer (Adhan), supplication, and group recitations.

Evaluation criteria are stringent, with judges assessing two primary recitation methods: Tahqiq, characterized by slow and precise delivery, and Tarteel, known for its melodic quality. Contestants also perform complete or partial memorization demonstrations. Assessment focuses on accurate pronunciation, compliance with Quranic regulations, musical harmony, and overall performance quality.

Historically, this competition has served as a springboard for talented individuals, many of whom have advanced to represent Iran at international Quranic championships.

Emphasis on Unity and Inclusion

The 2025 competition adopts “The Quran, the Book of Unity” as its central theme, underscoring organizers’ dedication to promoting national solidarity and spiritual consensus. Initial registration drew more than 61,000 participants at local levels, including approximately 4,000 from Sunni communities, highlighting the event’s inclusive character.

The competition demonstrates a commitment to gender equity, with men and women participating in distinct yet equally valued categories. Female competitors now receive standardized acknowledgment for their memorization and recitation accomplishments, signaling progressive steps toward inclusivity in national religious programming.

Youth development remains a key priority. Many contestants are students who have spent years training at local Quranic institutions under scholarly guidance. The national platform not only recognizes their commitment but also motivates other young people to pursue Quranic studies and cultural participation.

Sanandaj’s Cultural Preparations

Sanandaj, celebrated for its cultural legacy and spiritual atmosphere, has undergone extensive preparations. City streets, mosques, and cultural venues have been adorned to welcome contestants, spectators, and international visitors. Organizers have arranged workshops, Quranic study sessions, and exhibitions featuring religious texts and educational materials to enhance the cultural atmosphere.

Running concurrently with the main competition, an international gathering called “Quran Negel” will convene Kurdish-speaking reciters and scholars from Iran, Iraq, and Turkey. Sixteen international participants are anticipated, adding a global perspective to the proceedings.

Selecting Sanandaj reflects Iran’s strategy to distribute national events across regions, encouraging broader participation and supporting development in historically marginalized provinces. The event merges religious observance with cultural exchange, creating educational value for both participants and audiences.

Competition Timeline and Structure

Opening ceremonies commence on October 18, 2025, with men’s competitions continuing through October 26. Women’s competitions begin October 24, and closing ceremonies are scheduled for October 27. Evaluation criteria encompass technical proficiency, memorization precision, vocal delivery, and adherence to Quranic principles.

Organizers have executed comprehensive logistical arrangements covering accommodation, transportation, and security for all participants, judges, and visitors. Nationwide media coverage will enable the public to follow the competition and celebrate finalist achievements.

Regional and Social Impact

Hosting the competition delivers substantial social and cultural benefits to Sanandaj. The event motivates young people in Kurdistan Province and neighboring areas to engage with Quranic education and spiritual growth. Access to a national-level competition inspires local youth and elevates Quranic learning standards while strengthening community pride and regional identity.

Beyond educational outcomes, the event stimulates regional development through tourism, cultural exchange, and economic activity. Visitors and international guests create demand for local services, while cultural programs and exhibitions provide opportunities for small businesses, craftspeople, and educational organizations.

Lasting Religious and Cultural Significance

The National Quran Competition symbolizes Iran’s commitment to religious education, cultural preservation, and national cohesion. It reinforces the centrality of Quranic studies in modern Iranian society while promoting moral and spiritual development.

Through diverse participation and international connections, the event facilitates cross-cultural dialogue and enhances Iran’s standing as a center for Quranic scholarship. The combination of competition, workshops, exhibitions, and international collaboration enables knowledge sharing among scholars and participants.

Students and young reciters gain exposure to advanced memorization methods, refined recitation techniques, and deep traditions of Quranic scholarship. The event’s focus on unity and inclusivity aligns with broader national objectives of social cohesion, demonstrating how religious culture can bridge communities and regions.

The 48th National Quran Competition in Sanandaj represents more than a religious contest—it embodies Iran’s dedication to nurturing talent, celebrating diversity, and building unity through shared spiritual values. With meticulous planning, inclusive participation, and international engagement, the competition promises to be a transformative event inspiring both participants and observers.

Original Article:

Halal Times. (2025, October 14). Iran Selects Sanandaj to Host Final Round of National Quran Competition. Retrieved from https://www.halaltimes.com/iran-selects-sanandaj-to-host-final-round-of-national-quran-competition/