Page 44 - UAE FATWA PR REPORT - JUNE 2024

UAE President Sets Up Council For Fatwa,

Names Abdullah bin Bayyah As Chair

By Rhonita Patnaik

In a significant move to streamline religious guidance in the UAE, The President His Highness
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has established the UAE Council for Fatwa through two
federal decrees. This council has been designated as the nation's authoritative body for the
issuance of fatwas, reflecting a structured approach towards Islamic legal opinions on a wide
array of matters. The formation of this council underscores the UAE's commitment to
consolidating efforts and visions in developing policies and legislation related to religious edicts.

At the helm of the council is Abdullah bin Bayyah, who has been appointed as the Chairman
with the prestigious Grade of Minister. His leadership is expected to drive the council's mission
in unifying and guiding the fatwa-related activities across the country. The council also
comprises a group of esteemed members, including Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei serving as Vice
Chairman, alongside Dr. Khalifa Mubarak Al Dhaheri, Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz Al Haddad, Jamal
Salem Al Turaifi, Dr. Ibrahim Obaid Ali Al Ali, Abdul Rahman Ali Humaid Al Shamsi, Dr. Ahmed
Ibrahim Al-Tunaiji, and Dr. Fatma Al-Dahmani. This diverse team of scholars and experts brings
a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the council's operations.

The primary role of the UAE Council for Fatwa extends beyond the issuance of general and
urgent fatwas. It is tasked with the responsibility of conducting in-depth studies and research in
various fatwa-related fields. Additionally, the council plays a crucial role in reviewing and
providing legal opinions on relevant legislation, licensing the practice of issuing fatwas across
the UAE, and focusing on the training and development of muftis' skills. This comprehensive

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