ABU DHABI: The Muslim Council of Elders spotlighted Muslim Unity Dialogue at the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair through a seminar titled “Intra-Islamic Dialogue: One Nation and One Shared Destiny.” Dr. Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Haddad, Senior Mufti and Council member, led the session, emphasising the urgent need for Muslim unity.
At the start, Dr. Al-Haddad underlined that Muslim Unity Dialogue is a religious obligation rooted in the Quran. He warned that division threatens the very foundation of the Ummah, quoting the verse: “Hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.” (Quran 3:103). His message was clear: disunity invites strife and intellectual invasion, weakening the strength and cohesion of the global Muslim community.
Interestingly, Dr. Al-Haddad noted the Muslim Council’s prior achievements, like the “Document on Human Fraternity” signed in 2019, which fostered interfaith harmony. However, he stressed that while interfaith dialogue succeeded, focusing inward through Muslim Unity Dialogue is now essential. Sectarian rifts, if left unaddressed, continue to weaken the Ummah and undermine collective efforts towards global peace and stability.
Meanwhile, the Muslim Council’s pavilion at the Fair showcases over 250 intellectual and cultural works, including new titles from Al-Hokama Publishing. These carefully curated publications explore key topics like tolerance, coexistence, human fraternity, and dialogue—core themes that align with the Council’s ongoing mission of promoting a culture of peace.
In addition, Dr. Al-Haddad highlighted that the promotion of Muslim Unity Dialogue among all Islamic schools of thought is crucial. It fosters mutual respect, minimises conflict, and strengthens the shared destiny of the Muslim world. By nurturing dialogue internally, the Council believes the Muslim Ummah can set an example for broader global cooperation and peacebuilding efforts.
Dr. Al-Haddad’s seminar resonated deeply, serving as a timely reminder: Muslim Unity Dialogue is not optional; it is vital. Without internal cohesion, broader peace efforts cannot succeed. Events like this seminar build hope for a future where Muslims unite over shared values rather than divide over differences.
