Page 64 - UAE FATWA PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2025

2/20/25, 3:17 PM UAE Council for Fatwa organises 'Al Shawwaf Forum' on crescent sighting February 17 | local news | emirates7
Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, Chairman of the UAE Council for Fatwa, extended his
gratitude to Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his patronage, emphasizing that

this support underscores His Highness’s steadfast dedication to strengthening national

institutions and enabling them to fulfill their mandates effectively.

He further elaborated, stating, “This forum is in line with the council’s commitment to
advancing scientific research, formulating policies and protocols related to crescent

sighting, and reinforcing collaborations with relevant entities at both local and regional
levels.”

A key objective of the forum is to enhance coordination with pertinent authorities to
unify national perspectives on crescent observation and authentication, ensuring

alignment with global best practices. This initiative seeks to achieve both Islamic
jurisprudential and scientific precision in anticipation of the Holy Month of Ramadan

1446 AH (2025 AD).

With a progressive vision, the forum aspires to develop sophisticated Sharia-compliant

and scientific methodologies for crescent sighting and its regulatory framework. It also
aims to solidify the UAE’s position as a leader in astronomical observation, lunar

calendar studies, and crescent sighting practices.

Additionally, the forum will feature an exhibition celebrating the UAE’s cultural
heritage and historical traditions associated with crescent sighting.

The term ‘Al Shawwaf’ holds deep cultural significance in Emirati heritage.
Historically, it was used to describe individuals with extraordinary eyesight and keen

perception. Specifically, in the local tradition, ‘Al Shawwaf’ referred to those who
diligently observed and tracked the crescent moon to determine the start of a new lunar

month.

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