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The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, along with the Council’s esteemed members and its Secretary-General, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of his election as Head of the Catholic Church.

In a statement, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders said: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as Head of the Catholic Church. We are confident in continuing the journey of dialogue and fraternity with His Holiness in pursuit of peace, and in working together to promote the values of love, understanding, and mutual acquaintance—for a better world and a future in which all enjoy security, peace, and stability.”

In recent years, the Muslim Council of Elders and the Vatican have collaborated on numerous joint initiatives and efforts, which have had a profound impact in advancing interfaith and intercultural dialogue. These efforts have affirmed the pivotal role of faith leaders in addressing global challenges and culminated in the signing of the historic Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019—widely recognized as one of the most important declarations in modern human history.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the America International Arabic Book, Culture, and Arts Expo 2025 has been honored with the Outstanding Partnership Award in recognition of its impactful contribution to promoting civilizational dialogue and showcasing Islamic cultural heritage. The event was held at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

The organizers of the fair expressed their appreciation for the Council’s active participation, highlighting its significant role in enriching the Expo’s program and fostering unity among Dearborn’s diverse communities. They noted that the Council’s thought-provoking seminars, alongside its dynamic cultural pavilion, stood out as inspiring and memorable features of the event. In acknowledgment of these efforts, the pavilion was awarded the Outstanding Partnership Award.

The Council participated in the inaugural edition of Expo 2025 with more than 250 intellectual and cultural publications, as well as a series of panel discussions addressing key topics such as Islamophobia and the importance of intra-Islamic dialogue. This engagement aligns with the Council’s mission to promote peace and advance the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence.

Imam Mohammad Mardini, Director of the American Muslim Center in Dearborn: “We draw inspiration from the Call for the People of Qiblah to launch dialogue and coexistence initiatives in response to the sectarian rhetoric promoted by some media outlets.”

Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa, Kansas City-based researcher and member of the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism: “The Call for the People of Qiblah reminds us that our shared qiblah is a symbol of unity despite our differences, and that Allah intended this diversity to be a source of enrichment, not division.”

The Muslim Council of Elders hosted a pivotal seminar titled “Intra-Islamic Dialogue: A Reading of the Call for the People of Qiblah.” The event featured Imam Mohammad Mardini, Imam and Director of the American Muslim Center in Dearborn, and Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa, a Kansas City-based researcher and member of the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism. Both speakers offered profound reflections on the urgent need to foster Islamic unity in the face of polarization and divisive rhetoric.

The seminar built on the outcomes of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference—organized by the Muslim Council of Elders in collaboration with Al-Azhar and the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in the Kingdom of Bahrain in February 2025. It highlighted the “Call for the People of Qiblah” as a charter for unity and solidarity among Islamic schools of thought, offering a constructive pathway for mutual understanding across the Muslim world.

In his remarks, Imam Mohammad Mardini emphasized that Dearborn stands as a living example of Islamic unity and a practical embodiment of the principles outlined in the Call for the People of Qiblah declaration. He stated: “In Dearborn, we embody the Call for the People of Qiblah by uniting Muslims from all backgrounds under one shared faith, as Allah commands in the Quran: ‘And hold fast to the rope of Allah, all of you, and do not be divided.’ For over four decades, we have built a community where all are welcomed in our mosques, without distinction. This charter has inspired us to confront the sectarian rhetoric promoted by some media platforms by launching dialogue-based initiatives and organizing joint religious activities that foster coexistence, reflect the true spirit of Islam, and offer a model that can inspire communities across the Muslim world.”

For his part, Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa underscored the global relevance of the Call for the People of Qiblah declaration in countering extremism and fostering cooperation across diverse communities, particularly in culturally and ethnically pluralistic societies like the United States. He remarked: “The Call for the People of Qiblah, launched by His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, reminds us that our shared qiblah is a symbol of our unity, despite our differences. Allah intended diversity to be a source of enrichment, not division. Here in America—where stereotypes and political divides persist—we must engage one another directly, moving beyond preconceived perceptions. The charter calls on us to reject extremism and engage in dialogue, grounded in the Prophet’s saying: ‘Whoever prays our prayer, faces our qiblah in prayer, and eats our slaughtered animals is a Muslim.’ Through conferences and joint forums, we can present a unified image of Islam and fulfill our role in building bridges and countering all manifestations of division.”

The seminar also underscored the vital role of media and cultural exchange in promoting Islamic unity and encouraged grassroots initiatives inspired by the Call for the People of Qiblah charter. Participants called for the establishment of inclusive platforms and community initiatives that deepen shared awareness and strengthen bonds among Muslims.

This seminar was part of the Muslim Council of Elders’ participation in the inaugural edition of the America International Arabic Book Fair, held from May 1 to May 4, 2025, at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

Khalifa Khalid, a participant at the Emerging Peacemakers Forum: The Intra-Islamic Dialogue initiative, has created an unprecedented shift in fostering understanding among Islamic schools of thought

Meera Al Muhairi, a participant at the Emerging Peacemakers Forum: The EPF is a model to be emulated in promoting the values of human fraternity
 

 
As part of its cultural and intellectual activities at the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a panel discussion entitled “Intra-Islamic Dialogue and the Contributions of Youth.” The discussion was led by Mr. Khalifa Khalid and Ms. Meera Al Muhairi from the Emerging Peacemakers Forum (EPF), an initiative launched by the Muslim Council of Elders.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Khalifa Khalid underscored the significance of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue initiative launched by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders. He described it as a historic and transformative step in strengthening dialogue and understanding among various Islamic sects and intellectual traditions, and in reinforcing a culture of coexistence in the face of division and conflict. He pointed out that the Grand Imam’s call came at a pivotal moment, during the Bahrain Dialogue Forum, and was embraced by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain, who recognized the historic importance of the initiative.

Mr. Khalid emphasized that youth are the driving force behind achieving the goals of the Document on Human Fraternity, which was signed by His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and His Holiness Pope Francis, former Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019. He affirmed, “We must start with the youth—they make up the majority in every society and possess the energy to effect change.” He noted two main areas of focus to achieve this: first, instilling a strong Islamic identity and core values among youth in the face of globalization and modern challenges; and second, building bridges of communication and mutual understanding, based on the principle that “the more we come to know the other, the more gracefully we learn to live beside them.”

For her part, Ms. Meera Al Muhairi shared her personal experience participating in the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, saying: “I was fortunate to be part of this forum, which impressed me with its diversity and depth. It prompted me to ask profound questions: Can the ideas of other faiths influence my own thinking? Can I benefit from them?” She added, “Together with a group of students at the University of Cambridge, we studied texts from the Qur’an, the Bible, and the Torah. It was a deeply enriching experience that deepened my love for Islam and made me realize that while the religious messages may differ, the essence of religion is one.”

Ms. Al Muhairi affirmed that the forum opened new horizons for her in terms of accepting others, coexistence, and tolerance. She praised the efforts of the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, describing it as a model to be emulated in this field, for its impactful programs and initiatives that foster a culture of dialogue and tolerance among the younger generations.

It is worth noting that the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including several of the Council’s latest releases for the year. These works address critical cultural and intellectual issues in line with the Council’s mission to promote peace and uphold the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence. The pavilion is located in Hall 10, Booth 10C35.

Her Excellency Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Education in the UAE: “The Muslim Council of Elders has prioritized the inclusion of women in its global programs, driven by the belief that building bridges of dialogue begins within the family.”

Ambassador Nabila Makram, Former Minister of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates: “Women are peacemakers, value-bearers, and bridges for the transmission of cultural traditions.”

As part of its cultural and intellectual program at the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a seminar titled “Women and the Building of a Generation Capable of Spreading the Values of Coexistence and Peace.” The session featured Her Excellency Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Education in the UAE, and Her Excellency Ambassador Nabila Makram, Former Minister of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates. The event was attended by a distinguished group of intellectuals, researchers, and book fair visitors.

Opening the seminar, Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi emphasized that women play a foundational—not merely complementary—role in society. She described women as vital agents in instilling noble human values and nurturing generations capable of leading the future. She noted that the moral and intellectual challenges facing societies today require viewing tolerance and acceptance not just as ideals, but as existential necessities. Highlighting the pivotal role of mothers, she stressed that dialogue begins in the home, where wise women cultivate empathy, compassion, and openness in their children. Women, she noted, are the first institutions of dialogue—especially through the role of mothers in teaching active listening and respect for differing viewpoints.

Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi also praised the outstanding achievements of Emirati women across various sectors, made possible by the continuous support of the UAE’s wise leadership—from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace, to the present day. She highlighted that women currently comprise half of the Federal National Council, more than two-thirds of the public sector workforce, nearly 80% of the healthcare sector, and around 69% of university graduates.

She went on to commend the visionary leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation,” whose strategic initiatives have empowered women through comprehensive programs in education, training, and community development.

Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi further noted the Muslim Council of Elders’ commitment to integrating women into its international initiatives, believing that sustainable dialogue starts within the family—with women at its heart. She referenced the Council’s recent launch of a global program dispatching female religious envoys to promote a moderate and inclusive Islamic discourse, while also supporting educational programs that incorporate values of tolerance into school curricula.

In her remarks, Ambassador Nabila Makram expressed deep appreciation for the role of women in advancing a culture of coexistence. She described women as the “helmet of society,” protecting it through the values they instill. Women, she said, are peacemakers, transmitters of values, and carriers of cultural heritage. She commended the contributions of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to the empowerment of women in the UAE and praised the “Emerging Peacemakers Forum” initiative launched by the Muslim Council of Elders. She also expressed pride in her participation in the signing ceremony of the Document on Human Fraternity, drawing attention to Article 10, which underscores the rights of women to education and employment.

Ambassador Makram expressed her appreciation for the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of His Eminence the Grand Imam and the Secretary-General, in hosting such a significant seminar. She also cautioned against identity erosion in today’s unregulated digital spaces, emphasizing the need to safeguard Arabic as a pillar of cultural identity. She shared her experience with the “Speak Arabic” initiative, which evolved from “Speak Egyptian” following the directive of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi—highlighting the power of language in preserving national belonging. She also acknowledged the efforts of Her Excellency Mariam Al Kaabi, UAE Ambassador to Egypt, in championing community development.

Ambassador Makram called for a greater role for educational institutions in instilling the values of mutual respect and acceptance—especially amid the rise in hate speech and polarization. She also highlighted her engagement with Egypt’s National Alliance for Civil Development Work, a coalition comprising over 100,000 volunteers, including a significant number of women. She affirmed that women have consistently demonstrated strength, resilience, and unity in times of crisis. Ambassador Makram further praised Al-Azhar Observatory for its role in protecting children and youth from extremist ideologies, stressing that peaceful coexistence cannot be achieved without the active participation of women across all spheres of life.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including a selection of the latest releases from Al-Hokama Publishing. These works address some of the most pressing intellectual and cultural issues of our time and reflect the Council’s mission to promote peace, foster dialogue, and instill the values of tolerance and human fraternity. The Council’s pavilion is located in Hall 10, booth 10C35.

As part of its participation in the inaugural America International Arabic Book Fair (AIABF) in Dearborn, Michigan, the Muslim Council of Elders hosted a seminar titled “Countering Islamophobia: Building Bridges Through Dialogue and Understanding.” The panel featured Prof. Muqtedar Khan, Professor of Political Science at the University of Delaware and author of ‘Islam and Good Governance: A Political Philosophy on Ihsan;’ Prof. Mohammad Hassan Khalil, Professor of Religious Studies and Director of the Muslim Studies Program at Michigan State University; and Prof. Morgan Shipley, Foglio Endowed Chair of Spirituality and Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Religious Studies at Michigan State University.

Prof. Muqtedar Khan opened the discussion with a thoughtful analysis of how dialogue and cultural exchange can help address Islamophobia. He cited research showing that people with personal relationships with Muslims are far less likely to hold Islamophobic views, thanks to positive, real-life interactions. “As Muslims, we also have to recognize our own stereotypes and work to improve them. If we want equality, respect, and dignity, we should extend it to others the best way we can,” he urged. 

Prof. Mohammad Hassan Khalil, Professor of Religious Studies and Director of the Muslim Studies Program at Michigan State University, offered a comprehensive overview of Islamophobia and its societal impact, highlighting the importance of initiatives led by the Muslim Council of Elders in addressing it. “Much of Islamophobia stems from misinformation,” he said. “This is why workshops that explain core concepts and deconstruct misconceptions are so essential.”

Prof. Morgan Shipley, Foglio Endowed Chair of Spirituality and Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Religious Studies at Michigan State University, focused on the influential role of media and cinema in shaping perceptions of Muslims. “Islamophobia may be irrational, but it is deeply embedded in dominant Western narratives,” he noted. “Muslims and Arabs are too often portrayed as antagonists, with only a handful—roughly 12 out of 900 mainstream films—offering accurate or non-negative representations.” He emphasized the urgent need to amplify positive portrayals and foster dialogue across religious and cultural lines to promote mutual understanding.

The Muslim Council of Elders has participated in the America International Arabic Book Fair (AIABF), held at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

Dr. Mahmoud Najah, Imam of His Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque at the Abrahamic Family House: Islam is a religion of reason and dialogue that acknowledges diversity

Counsellor Dr. Ahmed Abdel Zaher, Legal Counsellor at Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and Professor of Law at Cairo University: The UAE has been a pioneer in legislating against hate speech, intolerance, and discrimination

Professor Zikrur Rahman, Founder and Director of the Indian Arab Cultural Centre: Religious diversity in India fosters dialogue and peaceful coexistence

Dr. Mohand Mechenene, Professor at Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities: Dialogue is rooted in human dignity and must be strengthened in the face of hate speech and discrimination

As part of its cultural and intellectual program at the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a seminar titled “Dialogue and Coexistence in Islamic Heritage: Firm Foundations and Lasting Values.” The seminar featured Counsellor Dr. Ahmed Abdel Zaher, Legal Counsellor at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and Professor of Law at Cairo University; Dr. Mahmoud Najah, Imam of His Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque at the Abrahamic Family House; Professor Zikrur Rahman, Founder and Director of the Indian Arab Cultural Centre; and Dr. Mohand Mechenene, Professor at Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities.

Opening the seminar, Dr. Mahmoud Najah affirmed that Islam, as the religion divinely chosen for His servants, speaks to reason and acknowledges diversity—both of which are core principles of the Islamic faith. He pointed out that terms such as understanding, contemplation, and reasoning appear over 120 times in the Quran, underscoring Islam’s nature as a faith grounded in dialogue and persuasion. He referenced historical examples such as the Constitution of Medina and the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah to illustrate how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) practiced dialogue throughout his mission. Dr. Najah expressed concern over certain platforms that unintentionally misrepresent Islam by promoting distorted messages that contradict its essence.

For his part, Professor Zikrur Rahman highlighted India’s remarkable religious and linguistic diversity as a divine sign encouraging dialogue and mutual understanding. He noted that India is home to a wide array of religions—including Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Christianity, and Islam—whose followers live together in harmony. He added that India has witnessed growing momentum in promoting peaceful coexistence based on security, well-being, and justice. Professor Zikrur Rahman also commended the Muslim Council of Elders’ participation in the New Delhi International Book Fair, where the Council’s publications attracted significant attention from India’s diverse communities, who are eager to engage with works that reflect Islam’s message of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

Counsellor Dr. Ahmed Abdel Zaher praised the UAE’s issuance of a pioneering law to combat discrimination and hate speech, stating: “The UAE is the only Arab country that has criminalized takfir (excommunication), making it a punishable offense to label others as disbelievers.” He revealed that a new legislative proposal is currently being developed, aiming to uphold the principles of human fraternity—namely, equality among all people, respect for religious pluralism, righteousness and justice, the principle that one’s faith is a personal responsibility, respect for other religions, and the rejection of mockery or insult.

In his remarks, Dr. Mohand Mechenene expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting dialogue, coexistence, and peace. He emphasized that dialogue must be grounded in the principle of human dignity, which is a shared value across all religions and philosophies. He also stressed the importance of fostering a culture of tolerance, mutual respect, and acceptance—especially in light of the growing prevalence of hate speech, extremism, and Islamophobia in today’s world.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including a selection of the latest releases from Al-Hokama Publishing. These works address some of the most pressing intellectual and cultural issues of our time and reflect the Council’s mission to promote peace, foster dialogue, and instill the values of tolerance and human fraternity. The Council’s pavilion is located in Hall 10, booth 10C35.

Mohamed Al Hammadi, Director-General of the Emirates News Agency: Words carry responsibility, and the media is a key partner in promoting a culture of tolerance

Abdel Latif El Menawy, Journalist and Writer: We need to amplify positive discourse to counter hatred and support initiatives like the Document on Human Fraternity across all communities

As part of its cultural and intellectual program at the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a seminar titled “Media and the Promotion of a Culture of Understanding and Dialogue.” The seminar featured Mr. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Director-General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM), and Mr. Abdel Latif El Menawy, journalist and writer. The speakers emphasized the importance of upholding media ethics and cultivating responsible discourse rooted in the values of tolerance and coexistence—particularly in light of the growing challenges posed by the dissemination of hate speech across both traditional and digital media platforms.

Opening the seminar, Mr. Mohamed Al Hammadi stated, “Today, we are fully aware of the importance of media and its unprecedented influence in shaping public opinion, especially in this era of rapid technological advancement.” He added, “Words are not merely means of expression—they are a responsibility. A single word can incite conflict or build awareness and peace. Therefore, those who choose to work in the media must recognize that they bear a growing human and national responsibility.”

Al Hammadi noted that the greatest challenge in countering hate speech does not lie solely within traditional media institutions such as television and newspapers, but rather in the vast online space, which remains open to millions of users without clear professional or ethical guidelines. He stressed that the media professional’s duty is to stand against waves of misinformation and negativity by promoting truth and reinforcing a sense of responsibility.

He further affirmed that “UAE media presents a unique model, characterized by its commitment to spreading a positive discourse that reflects the spirit of tolerance upheld by the wise leadership, and that fosters dialogue and unity without discrimination between members of society, regardless of their nationality or religion.” He added that media is a vital tool for building bridges of communication among people and cultivating a culture of moderation, and that the public’s engagement with media content is the true measure of a writer or journalist’s success in delivering their message.

For his part, journalist Abdel Latif El Menawy explained that with the evolution of communication tools, every individual today has become a content creator and influencer. The power of words has multiplied, and the public sphere is now accessible to all. “In this context,” he said, “we must work to ensure that words become a common ground for understanding—not a tool for incitement and division.”

El Menawy commended the Muslim Council of Elders for its efforts in advancing a culture of understanding and dialogue, citing the Document on Human Fraternity signed by the late Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church, and His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. He remarked, “This historic document could not have been created without the profound human and spiritual qualities of both signatories. It is one of the most important documents of modern times and deserves effective mechanisms to ensure its global implementation and sustainability.”

He concluded by stating that media is not a magical instrument but rather a reflection of societal awareness. It has a direct influence on shaping beliefs, and we urgently need to spread positive narratives, institutionalize models of dialogue, and support initiatives like the Document on Human Fraternity across all environments—even those that appear resistant or closed to the other.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including a selection of the latest releases from Al-Hokama Publishing. These works address some of the most pressing intellectual and cultural issues of our time and reflect the Council’s mission to promote peace, foster dialogue, and instill the values of tolerance and human fraternity. The Council’s pavilion is located in Hall 10, Booth 10C35.