Qatar’s Ministry of Culture has announced an open invitation for calligraphers and innovators worldwide to participate in the second iteration of the “Akhlaq” (Morals) international calligraphy art award. The ministry emphasized that the deadline for the first phase of submissions is November 1, 2026.

The competition aims to revitalize the art of Arabic calligraphy by upholding its traditional principles while highlighting moral values as a central theme. It seeks to underscore the connection between Arabic calligraphy and the promotion of the highest ethical standards, reinforcing human values and preserving both Arab and Islamic heritage.

The award also aspires to foster a comprehensive artistic approach that elevates the role of morality within culture and the arts. It encourages calligraphers globally to engage, exchange knowledge, and enhance their skills through this initiative.

Participants must demonstrate mastery of the traditional rules of Arabic calligraphy and adhere to the competition’s guidelines. Each entrant is allowed to submit only one piece of work, derived from a predetermined selection of 20 approved sentences for this phase. Prior to submission, artists are required to complete an online registration and send a scanned copy of their entry with a minimum resolution of 600 dpi to the designated email address.

To ensure impartiality and confidentiality, entrants must avoid including any signatures or identifying marks on their artwork. The Ministry has allocated monetary prizes to support and recognize the winners, aiming to foster the growth of artistic careers in this field.

This initiative underlines the cultural significance of Arabic calligraphy, portraying it not just as a traditional craft but as an essential expression of civilization that embodies profound human values.