NEWS

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its sincere congratulations to His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, on the occasion marking sixteen years since his appointment as Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. This milestone crowns a distinguished journey of dedicated service through which he has firmly established Al-Azhar’s standing as a global beacon of moderation and balance, and as an authority for enlightened Islamic thought.

The Council commends the sincere and tireless efforts of His Eminence in renewing religious discourse, strengthening the values of dialogue and coexistence, and confronting extremist ideologies, in addition to his pioneering role in spreading peace and advancing the principles of human fraternity at both the regional and international levels—thereby reflecting the true image of Islam as a religion that calls for mercy and tolerance.

The Muslim Council of Elders—honored to be chaired by His Eminence—affirms that this occasion represents an important moment to reflect upon the exceptional journey of a global religious leader who has borne the responsibility of promoting the values of wisdom and moderation, defending the causes of the Ummah, and serving all humanity. The Council prays to Almighty Allah to grant His Eminence enduring health and continued strength, to bless his noble efforts, and to preserve him as a source of pride and support for Islam and Muslims everywhere.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, affirms its unequivocal rejection of all forms of extremism, hatred, discrimination, and incitement to violence against Muslims, warning of the growing phenomenon of Islamophobia and the serious threat it poses to coexistence, social peace, and global stability.

In a statement issued on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed annually on March 15, the Council called for the launch of a comprehensive global campaign to confront extremist, hateful, and religiously discriminatory rhetoric. It urged the adoption of clear legislation and policies to combat hate and religious discrimination, the promotion of mutual respect and cultural and religious pluralism, and efforts to raise awareness of the true image of Islam as a religion of mercy, justice, and peace—one that upholds human dignity and affirms every person’s right to live in peace and security.

The statement added that Islamophobia is not merely the result of isolated individual attitudes or extremist discourse, but rather a dangerous phenomenon fueled by ignorance and distorted stereotypes, and exploited by far‑right groups to serve narrow political and partisan interests. Such practices contribute to the spread of division and hatred. Confronting this, the Council stressed, requires the concerted efforts of governments, religious institutions, educational bodies, and media organizations to enhance mutual respect and to strengthen citizenship, pluralism, and acceptance of others.

The Muslim Council of Elders continues to exert tireless efforts to highlight the tolerance of the true Islamic faith and to promote enlightened, moderate thought in the face of all forms of fanaticism, extremism, racism, hatred, and discrimination. These efforts are carried out through a range of impactful initiatives and projects, including East–West Dialogue Tours, International Peace Convoys, the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, Student Dialogue Programs for Human Fraternity, and Ramadan missions to various parts of the world.

The Document on Human Fraternity, which was co-signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb and the late Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, affirms that freedom is a right for every human being—in belief, thought, expression, and practice—and that pluralism and diversity in religion, color, gender, race, and language are manifestations of divine wisdom by which God created humanity. The document establishes these principles as a foundation for the rights to freedom of belief and freedom of difference, and for the rejection of coercing individuals into a particular religion or culture, or imposing a civilizational model that others do not accept.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, affirmed that Zayed Humanitarian Day represents an annual occasion to recall the noble humanitarian values embodied by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the United Arab Emirates—may Allah bless his soul—throughout his distinguished journey of giving, humanitarian service, and dedication to serving humanity everywhere, without discrimination or distinction.

In a statement issued on Zayed Humanitarian Day, observed annually on the nineteenth day of Ramadan, the Muslim Council of Elders noted that Sheikh Zayed’s humanitarian legacy has become a global model to be emulated in promoting the values of solidarity and compassion, providing relief to those in need, spreading goodness, and building bridges of cooperation among peoples. The statement further highlighted that the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, continues to follow the path of its founding father by strengthening humanitarian action and supporting initiatives that serve humanity and safeguard human dignity.

For his part, the Secretary‑General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, stated that Zayed Humanitarian Day embodies a comprehensive humanitarian school founded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, based on upholding human dignity, aiding those in distress, and extending a helping hand to the needy across the world. He emphasized that these noble values have become an integral part of the mission of the United Arab Emirates, its wise leadership, and its approach to global humanitarian action, as well as to the promotion of goodness, love, tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity.

He added that the legacy of wisdom instilled by Sheikh Zayed in his sons and brothers, Their Highnesses the leaders of the UAE, is evident today in the country’s steadfast approach to confronting challenges. The UAE has set an example of wisdom and responsibility—not only in times of prosperity, but also in times of crisis. This wisdom has enabled the UAE, despite the blatant Iranian attacks it has faced, to stand as a model of resilience, steadfastness, and effective crisis management, guided by humanity and prudence.

The Muslim Council of Elders concluded by affirming that commemorating Zayed Humanitarian Day is not merely a remembrance of the journey of an exceptional leader, but a renewal of commitment to the values of giving and solidarity that he established, and a reaffirmation of a universal message: that serving humanity and assisting those in need is a shared responsibility that transcends borders and cultures.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its sincere congratulations to His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Council, as well as to the scholars, students, alumni, and admirers of Al‑Azhar around the world, on the occasion of the 1086th Hijri anniversary of its founding. For centuries, this revered institution has stood as a distinguished center of learning and religious guidance, a steadfast beacon of moderation and balance, and a stronghold of authentic Islamic scholarship and enlightened human thought.

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary‑General of the Muslim Council of Elders, stated that throughout its long and distinguished history, Al‑Azhar has served as a cornerstone in promoting the values of peace and coexistence, entrenching a culture of dialogue and respect for diversity, and playing a pivotal role in confronting extremist ideologies and correcting misconceptions. He emphasized that Al‑Azhar has consistently upheld its universal mission, skillfully harmonizing the authenticity of its rich heritage with the demands of the modern age.

He further noted that Al‑Azhar will continue to rank among the world’s most influential religious and academic institutions, guided by a deeply rooted humanitarian message centered on the dissemination of knowledge and the promotion of moderation and tolerance. He added that Al‑Azhar’s scholarly and intellectual contributions continue to reinforce the values of human fraternity and to build enduring bridges of dialogue among peoples and cultures.

The Muslim Council of Elders commends the efforts of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb in leading Al‑Azhar’s journey of intellectual renewal, strengthening the discourse of moderation and balance, and advancing interfaith and intercultural dialogue, while firmly anchoring the values of human fraternity on the global stage. The Council affirms that, under his wise leadership, Al‑Azhar continues to fulfill its historic mission of disseminating sound knowledge, safeguarding civilizational identity, and promoting a culture of peace and coexistence among all people.

As it marks this historic anniversary, the Muslim Council of Elders renews its pride in Al‑Azhar’s esteemed standing and pioneering global role. It prays that Almighty Allah may preserve Al‑Azhar’s scholarly and humanitarian mission and grant success to its scholars and students as they continue their noble path of spreading knowledge, serving humanity, and fostering peace.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, extends its warmest congratulations and sincere wishes to the Arab and Islamic nations on the advent of the blessed month of Ramadan.

The Council affirms that the holy month of Ramadan is a profound spiritual occasion for renewing the values of mercy, tolerance, and solidarity, and for drawing inspiration from the lofty human principles enshrined in the noble teachings of Islam. It also emphasizes the importance of embracing this sacred month as an opportunity to strengthen compassion for the poor and the needy, and to extend bridges of love, empathy, and mutual care among all people.

The Muslim Council of Elders calls for reflecting deeply on the spiritual and moral lessons embodied in Ramadan and translating them into meaningful, practical conduct that reinforces unity and coexistence among all components of the Islamic world. It further underscores the importance of consolidating the values of human fraternity and promoting dialogue and acceptance of others, in a manner that supports efforts to achieve peace and stability within societies.

On this blessed occasion, the Muslim Council of Elders prays to Almighty Allah to return the holy month of Ramadan to the Arab and Islamic nations—and to all humanity—with goodness, prosperity, and abundant blessings, and to make it a month of security, peace, and mercy for the entire world.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, affirms that intellectual prevention and the consolidation of sound, enlightened awareness constitute the first line of defense against all forms of extremism, racism, terrorism, and Islamophobia.

In a statement issued on the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, observed annually on 12 February, the Council emphasized that violent extremism and the rise of hate speech are not confined to any specific religion or culture. It also underscored the importance of strengthening the values of citizenship, entrenching dialogue, respecting diversity, and promoting enlightened religious awareness—particularly among young people, who remain the primary targets of extremist groups.

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, stressed that the teachings of Islam, like those of all divine religions, were revealed to bring well‑being and dignity to humanity and were never intended to serve as vehicles for hatred, violence, extremism, or terrorism. He called for unified efforts to promote the values of dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, and peace among all people, regardless of their religions, cultures, or ethnic backgrounds, affirming that this approach represents the most effective path to safeguarding societies and protecting human dignity.

The Muslim Council of Elders has undertaken sustained efforts to dismantle extremist ideologies and correct misconceptions. In this context, the Council has convened seven rounds of East–West dialogue, launched more than fifteen international peace convoys that have reached communities across multiple continents, and organized the Emerging Peacemakers Forum to empower young people to play an active role in promoting the values of peace and coexistence. These and other pioneering initiatives culminated in the signing of the historic Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence the Grand Imam Ahmed Al‑Tayeb and the late Pope Francis, former Pope of the Catholic Church.

The Muslim Council of Elders renews its commitment to continuing its efforts to promote the values of human fraternity and peace, and to working closely with international partners to build societies founded on mutual respect and the preservation of human dignity. These efforts are pursued through a wide range of initiatives and programs aimed at elevating the voice of wisdom and advancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, affirms that empowering women and girls in the fields of science, research, and innovation is both a moral imperative and a humanitarian necessity for cultivating societies that are more just, resilient, and sustainable. The Council emphasized that strengthening women’s participation in scientific disciplines is a genuine investment in the future of humanity.

In a statement issued on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science—observed annually on 11 February—the Council highlighted that women’s contributions to science throughout history have been foundational to the advancement of human civilization. It underscored the importance of ensuring that girls have access to high‑quality and equitable education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), enabling them to help address the pressing global challenges of our time, from climate change to public health, food security, and digital transformation.

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, reaffirmed that “women are the sisters of men,” noting that Islam liberated women from outdated pre‑Islamic customs and honored them as mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives. He emphasized the need to ensure that women and girls obtain their full rights and to support and develop their capabilities, recognizing them as indispensable partners in the journey of development and nation‑building.

The Muslim Council of Elders calls for the removal of the social, cultural, and economic barriers that hinder women’s full participation in scientific fields. It stressed the need to adopt policies and initiatives that guarantee a fair, safe, and empowering scientific environment—one that nurtures creativity, excellence, and equal opportunity.

The Council reiterated its strong commitment to advancing women’s empowerment and enhancing their roles across all sectors and that promoting justice, equality, and equal opportunity is essential to achieving social harmony and sustainable development. Likewise, integrating women into the pursuit of scientific progress is key to shaping a future founded on cooperation, complementarity, and shared responsibility among all members of society.

During a telephone call today, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, discussed ongoing and prospective joint initiatives between the United Arab Emirates’ institutions and Al‑Azhar. The conversation focused particularly on efforts to promote the values of coexistence and dialogue among diverse peoples and cultures—efforts that contribute to strengthening peace and stability across the region and the wider world.

The two leaders also exchanged warm greetings ahead of the blessed month of Ramadan, praying that Almighty Allah makes it a month filled with blessings and goodness for the United Arab Emirates and the Arab Republic of Egypt, for their two fraternal peoples, and for all humanity, bringing with it peace and stability.

His Eminence the Grand Imam expressed his sincere gratitude and profound appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the UAE’s continuous support for Al‑Azhar and its global mission. He prayed that Allah protect His Highness and grant the UAE and its people enduring progress, prosperity, and well‑being.

The Grand Imam also underscored the significance of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity and its vital role in recognizing and honoring efforts worldwide that promote coexistence, cooperation, dialogue, and human fraternity.

For his part, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed his appreciation to His Eminence the Grand Imam, praising the essential role he and Al‑Azhar play in presenting the true, noble message of Islam, fostering fraternity and peace, and countering misconceptions promoted by those who seek to distort the image of the religion. His Highness further highlighted the deep scholarly, spiritual, and historical ties that connect the people of the UAE with Al‑Azhar and its distinguished scholars.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al‑Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al‑Azhar, extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Arab and Islamic nations on the occasion of the Night of Mid‑Sha’ban, praying that Almighty Allah grants this blessed occasion to the Arab and Islamic nations—and to all humanity—with goodness, blessings, and peace.

The Muslim Council of Elders affirms that the Night of Mid‑Sha’ban is a significant spiritual milestone in the collective consciousness of the Islamic Ummah and a renewed opportunity for self‑reflection, the revival of mercy and forgiveness, and the upholding of human dignity.

The Council adds that this blessed night reminds Muslims of the importance of purifying the heart, strengthening the spirit of moral responsibility, and drawing people closer together—especially in a world of mounting challenges and an urgent need to elevate the values of wisdom, justice, and peaceful coexistence.

The Muslim Council of Elders calls on all to seize this occasion to spread a culture of love, reject hatred and intolerance, reinforce the values of human fraternity, and translate faith‑inspired principles into practical action that serves communities, enhances stability, and builds peace.

The pavilion of the Muslim Council of Elders held its twelfth cultural seminar at the 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair, under the title: “Al Azhar and Islamic Dialogue: Requirements for Responding to the Call of the People of the Qibla.”

The seminar featured Professor Dr. Nazir Mohamed Ayyad, Grand Mufti of Egypt, and Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Hikma Center for Peace Research. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Mohamed Mahmoud Shaaban, a faculty member at Al Azhar University.

At the beginning of the seminar, Professor Dr. Nazir Mohamed Ayyad emphasized that uniting the Islamic Ummah is neither an intellectual luxury nor a secondary matter. He noted that the world today is undergoing rapid transformations and complex challenges, which place greater responsibility on institutions concerned with dialogue. He explained that achieving unity depends on several key mechanisms, including objective engagement with the texts of revelation, confronting deviant fatwas, correcting misconceptions, and promoting a culture of understanding and dialogue among different schools of thought and intellectual trends.

The Grand Mufti of Egypt also highlighted that scholars of Islamic civilization presented pioneering models of sound interpretation of religious texts, contributing to healing divisions and uniting the Ummah. He cited Imam Abu al Hasan al Ashari, founder of the Ashari school, who, upon his death, advised one of his students:
“Bear witness that I do not declare any of the People of the Qibla disbelievers, for all point to one God, and all differences are merely differences in expression.”

He further noted that the “Call of the People of the Qibla” represents a comprehensive, consensus based initiative involving scholars, thinkers, and muftis from across the Islamic world, aimed at confronting sectarian strife and shared challenges and reuniting the Ummah. He stressed the importance of academic institutions studying the document in depth to strengthen Islamic unity and address the causes of division.

For his part, Dr. Samir Boudinar explained that the “Call of the People of the Qibla” is not merely a text or statement, but a profound vision rooted in Islamic heritage, particularly the Ashari theological tradition to which the majority of Muslim scholars belong, based on the principle of not declaring any of the People of the Qibla as disbelievers. He emphasized the need to re establish unity through reviving Ashari intellectual heritage, along with integrating religious and human sciences to achieve the document’s objectives.

Boudinar added that the initiative seeks to open horizons of dialogue among people to remove misconceptions and dispel distorted stereotypes, warning that the absence of dialogue could leave the Ummah vulnerable to those who seek to exploit its divisions.

He also pointed out that history teaches that the Ummah has often been targeted through division and fragmentation, while its moments of strength and victory were tied to unity, knowledge, and awareness of divine laws. Unity, he affirmed, has always been and will remain the source of the Ummah’s strength.

It is worth noting that the “Call of the People of the Qibla” is one of the key outcomes of the first edition of the Intra Islamic Dialogue Conference, hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain in February 2025 under the gracious patronage of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and attended by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, with the participation of more than 400 scholars and religious leaders from across the Islamic world.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating with a dedicated pavilion at the 57th Cairo International Book Fair, running from 21 January to 3 February 2026. The pavilion features a wide range of the Council’s publications, in addition to organizing numerous seminars, activities, and events focused on promoting values of goodness, love, peace, and coexistence among all people.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion is located next to the Al Azhar pavilion in Heritage Hall No. 4 at the Egypt International Exhibition and Convention Center in New Cairo.