MAKKAH — The 46th King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorization, Recitation, and Interpretation of the Holy Qur’an concluded in Makkah on Wednesday. The competition, held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, was organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance. Princess Fahda bint Falah Al-Hathleen, spouse of King Salman, honored the female winners of the competition while Deputy Emir of Makkah Prince Saud bin Mishaal honored the male winners of the competition during the separate closing ceremonies held for female and male winners. In a recorded speech at the closing ceremony for the women’s section, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Sheikh said that the 46th edition marks a new chapter in the competition’s history, featuring international female participation and a dedicated closing ceremony for female contestants for the first time, amid the generous support and patronage the competition receives from the wise leadership. The ceremony of honoring male winners was held at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. Addressing the gathering, Minister Al-Sheikh highlighted that the competition stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to serving the Holy Qur’an, supporting its memorizers, and uniting people through guidance and righteousness. He noted the increase in the number of winners from 12 to 50, along with the rise in total prize money from SR1.1 million to over SR10 million, as these enhancements reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to honoring memorizers at major international Qur’anic events.At the conclusion of the ceremony, Prince Saud bin Mishaal honored the winners and members of the judging panel.