Morocco was named the guest of honor at the 18th Al Burda Prize in recognition of its significant contributions to Islamic culture and arts, Morocco’s Press Agency (MAP) reported.
Held on Tuesday evening, the ceremony focused on the life of the Prophet Mohammed through the concept of light (Al-Noor).
Morocco’s selection as the guest of honor highlighted the Kingdom’s flourishing Islamic art scene, a unique blend of Andalusian, Arab, and Amazigh influences.
The Al Burda Prize was presented across several categories, including poetry and calligraphy. Among the recognitions, the School of Arts and Crafts in Tetouan received an honorary distinction for preserving authentic Islamic arts.
Moroccan poet Yassine Hazkar won the prize for classical poetry.
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi commended Morocco for its remarkable contributions to Islamic arts and culture, describing the “Kingdom’s rich heritage as both a model of creativity and an inspiration for future generations.”
Al Qassimi also noted that the Moroccan exhibition, part of the event, offered a unique look into the diversity of Islamic arts in the Kingdom.
In a speech on behalf of Morocco’s Minister of Culture Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Ambassador Ahmed Tazi pointed to the ongoing growth of their dynamic relationship in human, cultural, and developmental fields, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI and Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Officials from Morocco’s Ministry of Culture, along with notable figures from the arts, culture, and diplomatic scene attended the ceremony.
Established in 2004, the Al Burda Prize celebrates Islamic values and promotes the universal language of Islamic arts, fostering unity and dialogue among nations.