Qatar National Library is celebrating the timeless beauty of Arabic calligraphy with the launch of its Arabic Calligraphy Contest, inviting community members to share artworks inspired by its heritage collection.
Drawing inspiration from the calligraphic panels and manuscripts preserved in QNL’s Heritage Library, this contest offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage with Arab and Islamic heritage through the art of calligraphy.
Themed around Arabic verses and texts, the contest encourages creativity rooted in tradition. Participants are required to incorporate one of five texts into their artwork, using a traditional Arabic calligraphic script such as Naskh, Thuluth or Diwani, among others. Entries may be submitted as either digital artworks or hand-drawn pieces (scanned in high resolution) in A4 or A3 format. AI-generated artworks will not be accepted.
The contest is open to all nationals and residents aged 16 and above with a valid Qatar National Library membership. Submissions must be uploaded via the official submission form no later than 20 July 2025 at 11:59 PM. Public voting will take place on Qatar National Library’s Instagram Stories from 27 July to 7 August 2025, with the final winner announced on 13 August 2025, in celebration of World Calligraphy Day.
The winner will receive an iPad Pro to support their artistic journey.
Participants can find inspiration in selected items from the Heritage Library’s collection, including rare and beautifully executed examples of Arabic calligraphy. Full contest details, guidelines and the submission portal are available on the Library’s website.
