Today's Edition
Ibrahim Saleem (Abu Dhabi)
The third International Conference on Islamic Studies, under the theme “Citizenship, Identity and Shared Values of Coexistence” kicked off in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday with the participation of an eminent group of scholars, researchers and academics from the UAE and abroad.
The conference aims to advance efforts aimed at safeguarding national identity across generations, in line with the UAE’s vision to preserve the authenticity of its cultural heritage.
Organised by Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, the two-day event reflects the university’s commitment to scientific research and the advancement of Islamic studies. It also forms part of the university’s broader efforts to support the growth of cultural, intellectual and philosophical development in the UAE.
In his speech during the opening session, Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, Chairman of the UAE Fatwa Council and Head of the Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace, praised the continuous support extended by the wise leadership to the university, as well as to knowledge and education both locally and globally.
He outlined four focal points: the concept of citizenship, its religious foundations, the nation as a space for rights and duties, and the role of religion in reinforcing citizenship.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah emphasised that one of the core pillars of citizenship is the principle of mutual obligations and equal rights. This foundation fosters positive relationships, discourages division and promotes shared interests.
Dr. Koutoub Moustapha Sano, Secretary-General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy, described citizenship as an intellectual, social and moral contract between individuals, society and leadership.
Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, affirmed that the conference addresses key questions and challenges by reinforcing local identity and promoting global citizenship through the values of coexistence.
Dr. Nazir Mohamed Ayad, Egypt’s Grand Mufti, stressed the importance of the conference in promoting coexistence, correcting misconceptions and combating extremism, which he described as a key threat to national belonging and identity.
The conference addressed critical issues of identity, belonging and coexistence in contemporary societies.
Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the World Council of Muslim Communities, emphasised that the context of identity is diverse in today’s world, and is essential to foster a culture of integration and alignment among multiple identities.
Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of MBZUH, said that the third International Conference on Islamic Studies opens new avenues for dialogue on concepts such as citizenship, identity and the values of coexistence.
He reflected on the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as a symbol of patriotism and loyalty, embodying the highest ideals of citizenship, service and commitment to the nation. He also commended the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who continues the founder’s legacy with a focus on human development, emphasising that citizenship is only complete when coupled with knowledge, work and solidarity.
Dr. Sami Al Sharif, Secretary-General of the League of Islamic Universities, discussed the relevance of the conference in addressing the challenges posed by religious and sectarian conflicts and the spread of hate speech. He praised the UAE’s inclusive approach to diversity, underscoring Islam’s values of acceptance and respect for pluralism.
Vison of Tolerance
The main session, chaired by Dr. Hamad Al Kaabi, Chief Aletihad News Center Officer, followed the opening session. The session witnessed the participation of Dr. Sultan Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research, and Dr. Nazir al-Din Muhammad Nasser, Grand Mufti of Singapore.
Dr. Al Kaabi praised the university’s efforts in engaging with societal issues and the conference’s role in promoting community ties and preserving cultural heritage.
He highlighted the university’s vision, inspired by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, whose global initiatives in tolerance, humanitarian work, communication and cooperation foster human cohesion and brotherhood.
For his part, Al Nuaimi, focused on citizenship, identity and shared values, noting that national identity should not clash with religious, sectarian or ethnic identities. Dr. Nazir al-Din Muhammad Nasser addressed the challenges of living in a diverse world, highlighting the dangers of extremism and value deterioration. He praised Singapore as an example of successful diversity.
During the course of two days, several working papers will be presented on national identity, citizenship, community solidarity and the sustainable development of values, among others.
