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The activities associated with the finals of the Akhlaq Award -- an international competition to revive Arabic calligraphy -- kicked off in Doha, under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture.The competition is recognized as one of the leading cultural initiatives that celebrate the aesthetic and spiritual dimensions of Arabic calligraphy, while promoting its presence in both local and international cultural spheres.Running over four days, the event features a series of lectures, cultural programmes, and panel discussions, with the participation of distinguished calligraphers, artists, and academics. The opening session, moderated by visual artist Kholoud al-Kuwari, spotlighted prominent local contributions to the development of calligraphy in Qatar.Qatari writer and researcher Ibrahim Yousif Fakhro shared his 25-year journey with Arabic calligraphy, emphasizing its deep-rooted role in Islamic and Arab identity. He highlighted how the transcription of the Holy Qur'an historically elevated the art form, as early calligraphers regarded their work as a spiritual act, writing the words of God.Fakhro noted that Qatar has recently placed strong emphasis on incorporating calligraphy into modern architecture, aligning with its national vision to preserve and promote Islamic and Arab cultural heritage. He cited Barwa Street and the Qatar National Library as landmark projects that reflect this approach.

Fifteen calligraphers from around the world are competing in the finals of the international competition for Arabic calligraphy, the 'Ethics Award', organised by the Ministry of Culture, being held from September 1-8 in Doha. The finalists, selected from among more than 250 participants, will face a sophisticated artistic challenge for prizes totaling nearly half a million Qatari riyals.This event at the Rosewood Hotel in Doha, reflects the Ministry of Culture's vision of promoting Arab and Islamic arts and highlighting the aesthetic and ethical values of Arabic calligraphy.A group of leading calligraphers and experts are to oversee the judging process, ensuring evaluation according to the highest artistic standards. The competitions are accompanied by a diverse programme that includes specialized seminars and interactive workshops, allowing attendees to explore the various international art schools in this field.This enriches Arabic calligraphers, introduces them to the most prominent trends in the local cultural scene, and opens up broader horizons for communication between creative artists. The event is to conclude with a grand ceremony held in the theatre of the new Ministry of Culture building, during which the winners will be honoured and their creations showcased to the public. This celebration reflects the status of Arabic calligraphy in the hearts of generations and emphasizes its role as one of the most important components of the cultural and artistic identity of the Arab and Islamic nation.