Fez — The Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs has opened applications for the 20th edition of the national Mohammed VI Prize for Moroccan Calligraphy Art and the 10th edition of the Mohammed VI Prize for Calligraphy “Al Horoufia.”Both competitions place Moroccan calligraphy at the center of cultural policy and invite artists from across the country to submit works that reflect a long, living tradition.
Two prizes under royal patronage
Organized in line with the High Instructions of King Mohammed VI the two prizes aim to honor calligraphy as a historic pillar of Moroccan artistic heritage. The ministry highlights that these awards are meant to recognize the contributions of established masters, encourage new generations of calligraphers, and support the preservation and renewal of styles rooted in Moroccan culture.
The Mohammed VI Prize for Moroccan Calligraphy Art focuses on the specific heritage of Moroccan scripts and their place in the country’s visual identity. The Mohammed VI Prize for Calligraphy “Al Horoufia” is framed within a broader reflection on Arabic calligraphy and decorative arts, while still anchored in the national context.
Four awards for Moroccan calligraphy art
For the 20th edition of the national Mohammed VI Prize for Moroccan Calligraphy Art, the competition includes four awards.
The Mohamed VI Prize of Excellence offers MAD 50,000 ($5,400) and rewards the most accomplished work presented. The Mohamed VI Prize of Distinction grants MAD 40,000 ($4,300) for a piece that stands out by its quality and originality. The Mohamed VI Prize of Encouragement, set at MAD 30,000, is designed to support promising talent and encourage calligraphers who are still building their careers. An additional Honorary Mohammed VI Prize, also MAD 50,000, will be awarded to one of the country’s great calligraphers, chosen by the national commission in recognition of a lifetime of work.
According to the ministry, this structure is intended to both celebrate excellence and create a pathway for emerging artists, so that calligraphy remains a dynamic field rather than a closed circle.
‘Al Horoufia’ prize and living heritage
In parallel, the 10th edition of the Mohammed VI Prize for Calligraphy “Al Horoufia” will run with three categories of awards.
The Honorary Mohammed VI Prize, worth MAD 50,000, will go to a renowned Moroccan calligrapher proposed by the commission. The Mohammed VI Excellence Prize, also set at MAD 50,000, and the Mohammed VI Distinction Prize, worth MAD 40,000, will reward works that combine technical mastery and creative expression.
The ministry notes that “Al Horoufia” reflects a commitment to safeguarding centuries-old arts such as Arabic calligraphy and ornamental design, while also pushing for the development of new stylistic approaches. The prize is meant to reaffirm that calligraphy is not only a historical craft, but an art form capable of evolving with contemporary sensibilities.
Deadlines and how to apply
For the national Mohammed VI Prize for Moroccan Calligraphy Art, applications are open until April 3, 2026. For the Mohammed VI Prize for Calligraphy “Al Horoufia”, the deadline is April 10, 2026.
In both cases, the participation form and competition guidelines are available through the delegations of Islamic Affairs and on the ministry’s official portal. Candidates must submit a completed application form along with their works, either by registered mail or by depositing them directly at the Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs in Rabat, under the Directorate of Islamic Affairs.
The ministry has also provided dedicated phone numbers for further information, confirming that it wants the process to be accessible to calligraphers across the country, from major cities to smaller regions.
By launching these two editions, Morocco continues to frame calligraphy as a key element of its cultural and spiritual heritage, while giving artists concrete support and national recognition for a practice that connects writing, faith, and visual art.
