The competition
An international Hifz competition in Lisbon
Memorisation (Hifz) of the Qur'an, with participants from many countries, in six categories defined by Ajza and by age.
What it is
The Lisbon International Qur'an Competition is a competition in the memorisation (Hifz) of the Qur'an. Participants are tested from memory before a panel of judges, on the parts of the Qur'an for the category in which they are registered.
The previous edition took place from 19 to 22 June 2025, at the Central Mosque of Lisbon, organised by Comunidade Islâmica de Palmela.
Who it is for
Participants up to the age of 25, from any country, in six categories (A, B, C, D, E and F) defined by the extent of memorisation in Ajza and by maximum age. Categories C, D and E each have two subcategories (for example, C1 and C2), each with its own classification. Categories A and B are only for contestants of Portuguese nationality.
Participants under 18 are registered by their parent or guardian, who also attaches their own identity document and is responsible for accompanying the minor during the competition.
Date and venue
The competition takes place from 25 to 28 March 2027 (Thursday to Sunday) at the Central Mosque of Lisbon.
Save the date
Add the competition days to your calendar.
Assessment criteria
Hifz (memorisation), Tajweed (rules of recitation), Waqf/Ibtida (pausing and resuming the reading) and Husn al-Ada' (quality of recitation). The judges' decision is final.
Dress code
Traditional Islamic dress is mandatory when taking part: a long tunic (Jubba/thobe) and a head covering (Topi/Kufi).
Local organisers
Centro Português do Qur'an is the entity responsible for the organisation, together with Comunidade Islâmica de Palmela.