UAE Council for Fatwa’s International Conference to Address Islamic Perspectives

The UAE Council for Fatwa’s International Conference, set to commence under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, and chaired by Abdullah bin Bayyah, aims to introduce innovative and Sharia-compliant approaches. 

These approaches will pave the way for fatwas concerning scientific and technological developments, bridging the gap between Islamic principles and modern advancements.

Theme: ‘Towards Shari’a Conceptualisation of Scientific Developments’:

Under the theme ‘Towards Shari’a Conceptualisation of Scientific Developments: Civilisational Methodology, Real-World Applications, and Ethics of Sustainability,’ the conference will delve into diverse topics. 

Special focus areas include disciplines like medicine, family, environment, sustainability ethics, and artificial intelligence, fostering discussions about the intersection of religious beliefs and contemporary scientific challenges.

Addressing Contemporary Challenges:

Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Director General of the UAE Council for Fatwa, highlighted the significance of the conference, emphasizing its role in addressing contemporary challenges. 

These challenges range from transplanting pig hearts into humans, human genomes, milk banks for infants, autonomous robots, and microchip implants to big data trading. 

The event aims to offer proactive fatwa solutions that align with current challenges and societal contexts.

Collaborative Platform for Dialogue:

Dr. Al Darei emphasized that the conference is a collaborative platform, encouraging dialogue and consultation among experts and specialists. 

It goes beyond traditional religious opinions, inviting input from science and various disciplines. 

This cross-fertilization of ideas ensures a comprehensive understanding of the issues and contributes to building legitimate opinions on these complex matters.

Building on Past Success:

Reflecting on past successes, Dr. Al Darei mentioned the Council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. 

The conference provided essential religious guidance related to the pandemic, showcasing the Council’s ability to respond to real-world challenges with appropriate Sharia solutions. 

This year’s conference builds on that legacy, focusing on the synergy between religious principles and the rapid pace of scientific advancements in our lives today.