DUBAI SUN MAGAZINE_YA

DUBAI SUN 51

visit those sites to get fatwas instead of asking 4. Should the citizens of the
competent scholars. But depending on such sites
for accurate information is a great error. “Verily, this UAE abide by fatwas issued
knowledge is religion, so be mindful from whom you
take your religion”, Therefore, we warn visitors of only within the UAE? If yes,
these sites to be careful not to fall prey to misleading
fatwas and their consequences. Allah Almighty then why?
ordered those who do not know to ask only those
who know, as Allah Almighty says: {So ask the people The citizens of the UAE and others who
of the message if you do not know}. live in this country, and under guide of its
government, should not go beyond the fatwas
It was noted that there are some young people who issued by the muftis in UAE, because they
issue some fatwas on social networking sites and know the UAE’s customs, traditions, order and
they have many followers, and they are doing so interests, and this is the essence of the fatwa.
without having sufficient knowledge of the Islamic A mufti should not make fatwas for the people
sciences, and rules of Iftaa, or an accurate reference, of each country until he is aware of their
and may not be residents of the UAE. What is your customs and traditions, because traditions
opinion in this issue, and how to deal with it, and what are just like a law, as the rule of jurisprudence
do you advise people? says. Rules and regulations are established
under the law and legislation of every country.
As I said earlier, social media is a wide open space, It is true that the law does not oblige people to
and it is impossible to control it. But we can do a refer to official specialists in their own issues,
lot to reduce the effects of such social networking but it is forbidden to publish a fatwa that
sites by finding a useful alternative like our official does not conform to the Sharia or against
websites. We post regularly about a lot of issues that any country and its public order, especially in
benefit people, and if people find those convincing, public issues. The danger is precisely in this
they won’t go to others. We also call on people not to issue, and legislation has set up penalties to
take fatwas from non-competent people, as this is deter transgressors.
a failure to comply with the teachings of Islam. Allah
Almighty says: }So ask the people of the message if 5. What is the difference
you do not know{. If we educate people about such
misleading fatwas, it will be a useful contribution between a preacher and a
towards discrediting these non-specialized or
suspicious sites. mufti?

Preaching is an independent science, and the
fatwa is another one, and not every preacher
is a mufti or vice versa. However, there are
common features between them in the
matter of knowledge and preaching style, as
has been observed in many ascendants and
successors. As for those who did not study the
fatwa and Islamic jurisprudence and have
not received formal training should not make
fatwas on issues they don’t understand, and

52 DUBAI SUN

should refer these issues to the real muftis. Abdullah 7. What are the statistics of
bin Mas’ud (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “O fatwas in your Department?
people! He who has the knowledge of any matter (Received via Internet, phone,
may convey it to the others. And he who has no or verbal at the Department)?
knowledge, thereof, should say: “Allahu a’lam (Allah
knows better).” Allah said to His Prophet (PBUH): “Say Fatwas issued by the Department and
(O Muhammad (PBUH)): ‘No wage do I ask of you for published on the Department website more
this (the Qur’an), nor am I one of the Mutakallifun than 27660 fatwas
(those who pretend and fabricate things which
do not exist)”. Also, Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) Official published fatwas: about 3,000 fatwas.
said:  “Anyone who attributes words to me which I
did not say should take his seat in the Fire. Anyone As for verbal fatwas through direct meeting
who gives his Muslim brother misguided advice when or phone calls during working hours, the
they consult him has betrayed them. If anyone gives annual fatwas have exceeded 160,000 ones, in
a fatwa which is not firm, the wrong action of that addition to the fatwas on the free line out of
rests on the one who gave the fatwa.” working hours, which are not included in the
statistics.
6. What are the most recent fatwas
8. How many muftis are in the
issued by Fatwa Department? Department, and do you need
more?
People send us questions regarding their main
concerns about their faith, and we answer these There are 16 muftis, of which two are female
questions. The subjects of the questions range muftis. This number is very small number,
from about worship to transactions and family. We compared to similar departments and houses
publish some fatwas from time to time in some of fatwa in the UAE and abroad.
magazines, such as “Al Diyaa” issues by the Islamic
Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. All Therefore, we need to increase the number of
fatwas are published in the annual Fatwa Volume, muftis, to keep pace with the increase in the
which contains 23 editions. The collection will soon number of beneficiaries.
be released in 7 volumes, accessible to anyone who
wants to own and benefit from it.

In addition, a large number of fatwas are published on
the website of the Department, categorised according
to the different questions, easily accessible. Also, the
Department has published about 30 thousand fatwas
on Google, so that these fatwas will benefit millions of
Muslims around the world, and we continue updating
other editions of the official and electronic fatwas to
be posted online.

DUBAI SUN 53

9. Tell us more about the idea to
establish fatwa center in Dubai,
like Abu Dhabi’s Fatwa Center,
especially in terms of location
and used techniques?

The idea of establishing a fatwa center is still under
study, and the concept is prepared. The benchmarking
of similar centers and institutions in the UAE and
abroad is set to be integrated and in line with Dubai’s
pioneering ambition.
I also ask you to kindly add any question or comment
you see useful for the community.
God bless you

54 DUBAI SUN

IIFA developments of modern life guided by
the teachings of the tolerant faith of Islam.
Under the patronage of H.H. H.E. stressed the importance of the Islamic
economy and developing it as a decisive
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al and influential factor in most of the issues
facing the Islamic world, highlighting that
Maktoum ethical economic solutions to these issues are
available between the folds of the Holy Quran
IACAD hosted and organized the and the Sunnah.

24th session of the International H.E. spoke about the rapid growth of the
Islamic economy in the world, the growing
Islamic Fiqh Academy Conference impact and size of the Islamic finance sector
and the spread of Islamic banks. H.E. also
2019 commences in Dubai noted that Islamic finance is attracting new
countries from East Africa and Central Asia. H.E
The 24th session of the International Islamic Fiqh also pointed to the continued contribution of
Academy Conference held under the patronage of the local Islamic economy to the GDP of Dubai
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice and the UAE, as well as in achieving significant
President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler growth rates in the implementation of the
of Dubai commenced today in the Intercontinental vision and directions of His Highness Sheikh
Hotel, Festival City, Dubai from 4 to 6 November 2019. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice
The International Islamic Fiqh Academy is a scientific President and Prime Minister of the UAE and
subsidiary body of the Organization of Islamic Ruler of Dubai, which sets to establish Dubai
Cooperation (OIC) and is assigned to clarify the legal as the global capital of the Islamic economy,
concern of Muslims, based on the Holy Quran and the with an attractive working environment that is
Sunnah of the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him). friendly to business and investors.

H.E. Sultan Al Mansoori, Minister of Economy and
Chairman of the Dubai Islamic Economy Development
Centre (DIEDC), H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh Ahmed Al
Shaibani, Director General of the Islamic Affairs and
Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD),
Dr. Abdulsalam Al-Abbadi Secretary General of the
International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA), H.E. Dr.
Saleh Bin Abdullah Bin Humaid, President of the IIFA,
H.E. Dr. Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen Secretary-
General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation
(OIC), along with a group of scientists, researchers,
opinion leaders, thinkers and experts from the Arab
and Islamic world were present at the opening
session.

First on stage, H.E. Sultan Al Mansoori welcomed
the attendees to their second country the UAE, and
praised the nation’s efforts to keep pace with the

DUBAI SUN 55

H.E. also stressed the importance of preparing for the H.E. continued by thanking H.H. Sheikh Khalifa
next stage of growth and expansion of the Islamic Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE,
economy in the region and the world, and the need to for his support to scientists and activities like
work to unify the legislative and knowledge references these, H.H. Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum,
of the peaceful economy through cooperation Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE
between senior Islamic scholars present in this and Ruler of Dubai, for his patronage of this
important event, and attention to the development conference, as well as H.H. Sheikh Hamdan
of the legislative and legal environment of the Islamic Bin Mohammad Crown Prince of Dubai and
economy as a safe haven for sustainable growth. President of the Dubai Islamic Economy
Development Centre for supporting initiatives
During his speech, H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh that benefit humanity and develop the Islamic
Ahmed Al Shaibani noted that it is a great honour economy.
for Dubai to be hosting the 24th session of the IOC’s
International Fiqh Academy Conference 2019, which In his speech, HE Dr. Abdul Salam Al-Abadi
coincides with the Golden Jubilee of the OIC. thanked the UAE and the Government of
Dubai for hosting, welcoming and honouring
H.E. offered his warmest wishes to this global Islamic the Academy, its members and experts. H.E.
body, which has consistently provided assistance mentioned the most notable topics that will
and support to Islamic and Arab nations in be discussed during the conference, such as
international Forums. H.E. noted that the organization smart contracts, FIDIC contracts, inflation and
has actively contributed to the resolution of issues change in the value of currencies, tolerance
between Islamic countries, and has contributed to in Islam, food and water security, the human
their cultural, social, and economic renaissance; the genome and future bioengineering and
organization’s importance in clarifying contemporary Industry 4.0.
jurisprudential provisions for Muslims cannot be
understated. In turn, H.E. Dr. Saleh Bin Abdullah Bin Humaid,
praised the audience for accepting the

56 DUBAI SUN

invitation, which strengthens jurisprudence and
supports collective diligence. H.E. noted that the
Academy has always been studying different
updates and novelties and did their due diligence
depending on the Holy Quran and Sunnah, by always
using moderation as their methodology between
scholars in the Islamic world, and countries with
minorities.

H.E. Dr. Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen stressed the
importance of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy
as it came out of a dire need of uniting Muslims and
bringing their doctrinal and intellectual approaches
towards achieving unity politically, economically and
socially. H.E. noted that the Academy also came to be
out of the need of protecting Muslims from extremism
and promoting moderation.

At the end of the opening ceremony, H.E. Dr. Saleh
Bin Abdullah Bin Humaid presented an award to
H.E. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, on behalf of UAE
Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The
President of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy
honoured H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Sheikh Ahmad Al-
Shaibani in recognition of his efforts in hosting the
24th session of the Academy Conference.

The first day of the conference discussed 15 research
papers within three sessions. The first and second
scientific sessions of the conference discussed the
issue of smart contracts and how to activate and
terminate them, and the extent to which they relate
to the subject of digital currencies, in the presence
of a group of scientists and researchers specialised
in this issue. H.E. Dr. Mohammed Abdul Ghaffar Al-
Sharif presented the first scientific session, while H.E.
Dr. Ayash Fadad played the role of the rapporteur.
During this session, five research papers were
reviewed on this issue, dealing with the fundamentals
and purposes of smart contracts, their relationship
to digital currencies, their concept, their pillars
and features, and the perspective of Islamic Fiqh
regarding the smart electronic modes.

DUBAI SUN 57

H.E. Dr. Insaf Ayoub Al-Momani presented the
second scientific session, while H.E. Dr. Erwan bin
Mohammed Sabri, played the role of the rapporteur.
The second scientific session presented four
research papers on this issue, which focused on the
concept of smart contracts, and defining them from
a Shari’a perspective. Due to the rapid technological
developments on one hand and the complexity of
financial transactions forms from the professional
and technical angle on the other, defining smart
contracts is done by applying the analogical
reasoning and then stating the fatwa. The session
discussed the reality of smart contracts in this age
and how they are drafted and terminated. It also
discussed their relationship to virtual currencies,
which is one of the most prominent applications
of Blockchain, and the future implications of this
relationship.

The third and final scientific session of the first day
discussed the issue of monetary inflation and change
in currency value. H.E. Dr. Aayad bin Nami Al-Selmi
presented the session, while H.E. Dr. Mohammed
Abdul Halim Omar played the role of the rapporteur.
During the session, six research papers were
discussed on this issue, which focused on linking
rights and obligations to price change, Fiqh solutions
to address the effects of inflation with accounting
interpretation and analysis, the effects of monetary
inflation and how to address it jurisprudentially and
economically, and the problems of cash money in
the context of inflation situations from the Islamic
perspective. That, in addition to the role of the
principle of “reconciliation” in the handling inflation
in the era of near money, and the negative effects
forced by inflation on societies.

H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh Ahmed Al Shaibani
stressed the importance of the Conference
discussions to respond to the accelerated

58 DUBAI SUN

technological and scientific development in several human genome and future bioengineering, as
fields and precisely in the economic and financial well as discussing the recommendations of
fields. The discussions of the Conference are gaining the sessions held by the Academy in the last
increased importance as they provide the Sharia and three years.
Fiqh view regarding various topics that are relevant
to Muslims across the world. The day started with a session titled “Tolerance
in Islam and its social and international
H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh Ahmed Al Shaibani said: “In necessity and effects,” presented by Dr.
the first day of the Conference, the sessions discussed Ammar Al-Talbi and Dr. Ahmed Abdel-Alim
various key topics, such as smart contracts and their Abdel-Latif. The participants discussed 12
connection to digital currencies, and inflation and research papers, all of which emphasized the
change in value of currencies. The research papers importance of tolerance as the aspiration of
presented within the Conference provided the religions and the aspiration of all mankind. The
scientists and experts attending these sessions with session also highlighted the duty of thought
a comprehensive view to those topics from various leaders, politicians and religious scholars to
Fiqh, Sharia, scientific and economic points of view. assume their responsibilities in remembering
These discussions emphasize the importance of the values of Islamic thought in terms of
Dubai as the capital of the Islamic economy.” understanding, forgiveness, tolerance,
transgression and improving relations
The 24th session of the International Islamic Fiqh between Muslims, and improving tolerance
Academy Conference witnessed in its second day, in Muslim relations with other religions. In
five scientific sessions discussing various topics general, the values that were emphasized is
including: FIDIC contracts and their impact on modern that Islamic Sharia is simple, easy, and isn’t
contracts in Arab countries, tolerance in Islam and strict or rigorous on people. At the end of
its social and international necessity and effects, this session, the sponsors were honored for
the achievement of food and water security and its their efforts in demonstrating the concept of
effects on Future challenges in Islamic countries, the tolerance and highlighting its importance.

DUBAI SUN 59

H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh Ahmed Al Shaibani,
Director General of IACAD, praised the
valuable contributions made by researchers
and scholars participating in the conference
sessions, pointing to the vital role played by
the Islamic Fiqh Academy in discussing issues
that concern the present and the future of
the Islamic Nation, and in coming up with
decisions and recommendations based on
scientific and jurisprudential details that fit the
requirements of the times.

H.E. said: “In line with the UAE’s approach
to embracing tolerance, coexistence and
human openness, IACAD was keen to include
tolerance in Islam in the conference’s agenda.
The scientific session presented a number
of valuable research papers that presented
a comprehensive vision of the concept of
tolerance in Islam and highlighted its social
necessity and its effects on Muslim societies.”

The fourth scientific session of the conference
discussed the issue of FIDIC contracts and
their impact on modern contracts in Arab
countries. Eight research papers were
presented, that dealt with various economic,
legal and jurisprudential aspects, to determine
the legitimacy of FIDIC contracts in Islamic
jurisprudence and sharia, and the impact of
these contracts on building contracts in the
Arab and Islamic countries. Additionally, they
discussed ways to resolve disputes in these
contracts from an Islamic perspective. Dr.
Abdul-Sattar Al-Khuwaildi and Dr. Abdullah
Aqeel acted as presenters during the session,
while Prof. Dr. Hamed Mohammed Abu Taleb
acted as Rapporteur.

60 DUBAI SUN

On day two, the second session of the conference
discussed water and food security and its effects
on the future challenges facing the Islamic Nation.
Four research papers were presented that tackled
the issue in many ways, especially the effects of
the Fourth Industrial Revolution on the fields of food
and water security from an Islamic perspective, and
how the jurisprudence can contribute to facing the
challenges of the Islamic Nation in this area.

The third day of the International Islamic Fiqh
Academy (IIFA) Conference

DUBAI SUN 61

discussed the issue of the human genome and future biomedical engineering, due to its extreme
importance. Although the human genome holds high hopes of ridding man of pain, it has raised a range
of moral, legal and social problems. This is why the Academy was keen to discuss this issue and consider
the uses of genomics along with its resulting benefits and challenges, during a special session. The session
reviewed the previous decisions on this subject, and considered the most important developments and
scientific challenges posed by this issue in within Sharia provisions.
The session discussed 11 research papers that focused on the role of artificial intelligence in the human
genome project in terms of Islamic jurisprudence, genetic engineering, its relationship with the fourth
industrial revolution, and the future challenges posed by this revolution from an Islamic perspective, and
how to benefit from genetic treatments to achieve medical achievements under Sharia provisions.
The session dealt with various scientific studies specialised in the fields of biomedical and genetic
engineering and its current and future medical applications such as finding treatments for some genetic
diseases and preventing others. The session also examined the challenges that the Human Genome
Project could pose in light of the Islamic Sharia, that makes sure to preserve the soul and the offspring.
The discussions stressed the need to make recommendations that establish clear controls and policies
related to medical and genetic research in accordance with jurisprudence regulations and Sharia.

62 DUBAI SUN

Commenting on her participation in the Academy’s artificial intelligence, nanotechnology
activities, Dr. Insaf Ayoub said: “The Islamic Fiqh applications and their effects on humans in an
Academy is a vital scientific reference. This year’s increasing machine-driven world, in addition
Academy Conference is special as it is hosted in to human genome and genetic engineering
Dubai, which has always been characterised by its and its jurisprudence in Sharia.
proactive vision and brave approach to discourse and
dialogue. The dialogues presented by the Academy The eighth scientific session dealt with the
are renewed and very important, and respond to recommendations of the seminars held by the
the daily questions of Muslims on contemporary life, Academy during the past three years, which
which require us to work and cooperate to provide a included a seminar on hedging operations in
jurisprudential vision to keep pace with the changes financial institutions. A special seminar on the
in the world.” role of religious education in achieving peace,
and a seminar on digital e-currencies, where
On her end, H.E. Dr. Hana Mohammed Hilal Al-Hunaiti the session reviewed the recommendations
Dean of the Scientific research at the University of made during these seminars and the latest
Islamic Sciences pointed out that the Academy developments related to the topics discussed.
discusses contemporary issues and jurisprudences
that Muslims need to know their Sharia provisions, H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh Ahmed Al
pointing that this 24th session hosted in Dubai dealt Shaibani, Chairman of the Higher Committee
with several axes and key topics, including the issue of the Conference and Director General of
of smart contracts and their applications and their IACAD, honoured the members of the Islamic
Sharia provisions, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Fiqh Academy for their efforts and effective
contribution to the success of the Conference.
H.E. Dr. Abdulsalam Al-Abbadi Secretary
General of the IIFA honoured Mr. Butti Al Jumairi,
General Coordinator of the International
Islamic Fiqh Academy Conference and
Executive Director of Institutional Support
Sector (IACAD) in addition to the IACAD team
as an appreciation for the efforts exerted
in hosting, organising and making the
conference sessions successful.

Dr. Ahmed Abdul Aziz Al Haddad, Chairman
of the Scientific Committee started the
closing session with a speech in which he
thanked all participants of the conference’s
sessions, including members of the Academy,
researchers and specialists, and those
interested in Islamic affairs. During his
speech, Dr. Al-Haddad thanked, on behalf of
the International Islamic Fiqh Academy, H.H.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President

DUBAI SUN 63

of the UAE, for his interest in science and scientists
and his patronage of the blessed scientific activities,
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE
Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai for
his patronage of the conference, and H.H. Sheikh
Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,
Crown Prince of Dubai and President of the Dubai
Islamic Economy Development Centre for following
up and encouraging initiatives that benefit humanity
and develop the Islamic economy.

Dr. Al-Haddad pointed out that all the jurisprudential
decisions issued by this session were taken after
extensive discussions of the topics that were raised,
in which all members participated. The consultations
focused on the various scientific, jurisprudential and
Sharia aspects of each of the topics which lead the
Council’s final decision.

Dr. Omar Al-Khatib, Executive Director of the Islamic
Affairs Sector IACAD, conveyed the greetings on
behalf of H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Al Shaikh Ahmed Al
Shaibani, Director General of IACAD, Chairman of the
Organising Committee of the International Islamic
Fiqh Academy Conference, as well as his delight with
the success of the 24th session of the conference,
which the UAE was honoured to host.

Dr. Al-Khatib pointed in his speech to the importance
of the contribution of the Islamic Fiqh Academy in
solving the unsolved issues between the Islamic
countries, as well as to their cultural, social and
economic renaissance. This was done by coming
up with successful recommendations to the
Islamic Nation that shows the contemporary Sharia
provisions for several important jurisprudential issues
and matters that look to the future and address the
present, such as smart contracts, currency inflation,
FIDIC contracts, tolerance in Islam, food and water
security, the human genome and future biomedical
engineering.

64 DUBAI SUN

At the end of the conference’s sessions, the academy
issued nine resolutions, each of which included
recommendations on the topics raised. These
included smart contracts and their relation with
digital currency, inflation

DUBAI SUN 65

and change in currency value, FIDIC contracts,
tolerance in Islam, achieving food and water security
in Islamic countries, human genome and future
biomedical engineering, hedging operations in
financial institutions, the role of religious education
in achieving peace, and cryptocurrencies.

With regards to smart contracts and its relation with
the cryptocurrencies, the academy issued resolution
no. 230 (1/24), which reaffirmed all the findings of the
academy’s previous resolution on the Sharia provision
of making contracts using new technologies. It
also applies to electronic contracts, which are
independent of smart contracts. The resolution
explained the meaning of smart contracts and the
way they are devised, while choosing to postpone its
ruling on the matter pending a specialized seminar to
further study the subject. Invitations will be extended
to experts in technological fields such as Blockchain,
and cryptocurrencies.

The academy’s resolution no. 231 (2/24) on inflation
and change in currency value reaffirmed its previous
resolution on low inflation. It left the estimation of
excessive inflation to either mutual consent, judiciary
or arbitration. The resolution ruled that in case of
excessive inflation, following the start of a debt,
there is no objection for the creditor and debtor to
agree on paying the debt value or distribute the
damage between both parties by mutual consent.
The debt can also be fulfilled as per judiciary or
arbitration ruling. However, it is not permissible to
agree in advance on such terms. The academy
reaffirmed its previous recommendation to all
Islamic governments in its resolution no. (12/9/115)
which included 12 points.

Regarding the FIDIC contracts, the academy’s
resolution no. 232 (3/24) defined the concept of
FIDIC contracts. It noted that these contracts are
jurisprudentially permitted if they comply with Sharia
provisions and regulations, as the case with the
contract of Istisna’ and Ijarah (leasing), as well as

66 DUBAI SUN

contracts in which consent to change of the contract
is altered at the time of its entry. In order to avoid
dispute or conflict given the pre-agreement on the
provision, by resorting to arbitration accepted by
its parties, and because the financial increase that
may occur on the agreed basis is not a reward for
the delay in fulfilling, but rather compensation for
damages that may be caused by one party to
another, or because of changing implementation
circumstances or its cost.

The academy’s resolution no. 233 (4/24) on tolerance
in Islam, and its social and international ramifications
reaffirmed the recommendations previously issued
by the academy’s council, which calls for peaceful
coexistence, further noting that tolerance is a
principle that was elucidated in the Holy Quran and
Sunnah, and that Muslims are ordered to be tolerant.
The resolution noted the urgent need to work on the
principle of tolerance, while praising international
initiatives in this area, including the UAE’s efforts to
promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

The resolution included several recommendations
that called for the inclusion of the value of tolerance
in educational curricula, religious discourse and the
media. It also urged specialists and thought leaders
to write about this subject and called on the United
Nations to adopt legislation, which criminalize racism,
exclusion and tribalism.

The academy’s resolution no. 234 (5/24) on food
and water security discussed the meaning of both
concepts and included six recommendations that
stressed the need for governments of Islamic countries
to put the issue at the forefront of their policies. It also
stressed that Muslims should jurisprudentially avoid
water and food waste, and that Muslim scholars
must strive to find ways to help achieve food and
water security. It also called on Islamic countries to
bolster cooperation in order to address water and
food shortage, and to use modern technology in seed
production and enhancing agricultural yield. The

DUBAI SUN 67

recommendations highlighted that Islamic countries curricula, as well as highlight the correct
should take advantage of the Islamic Sharia to build concepts about women in Islam.
agricultural resources by applying the principle of
“reviving unused lands” with its Sharia regulations. Resolution no, 237 (8/24) deliberated
cryptocurrencies, its methods, as well as the
The Resolution no. 235 (24/6) on the human genome risks they pose. It also deliberated dealing with
and future biomedical engineering emphasized cryptocurrencies through online platforms or
the recommendation of the 21st session of the through brokers. The resolution highlighted
International Islamic Fiqh Academy conference. It that there were issues that emerged which
is permitted to allow genome editing technology if would impact the Sharia provision. Therefore,
approved by relevant medical authorities, and only and considering the risks cryptocurrencies
if it is used for medical purposes, which prevent and pose, the board recommended further studies
cure genetic diseases. This requires strict regulatory on the subject.
procedures to ensure each person involved with
the treatment is respected. The resolution clarified
that it is not permitted from a Sharia point of view
to transfer mitochondria with DNA from a healthy
woman to another with mitochondria DNA damage
that is intractable, in order to prevent genealogy.

Resolution no. 236 (7/24) on the role of religious
education in promoting peace and caring of the
Holy Quran and Sunnah, noted the importance of
organizing regional and sub-regional conferences
and seminars to enhance the role of religious
education in achieving peace. The resolution also
called upon the membered countries to form
specialized committees to review their religious
education curricula and ensure they promote
peace, dialogue and coexistence. Additionally, the
resolution stressed the importance of religious
education to focus on God almighty honor for human,
demonstrate concepts that promote tolerant values
of Islam, and to publish further programs to teach
the Arabic language, while adhering to the modern
education system. The resolution also stressed the
need to improve the education system and develop
research centres in order to emphasize moderation
and lead Muslims down the right path. The resolution
also noted the need to promote peace and caring
culture by teaching Fiqh Muqaran “Comparative
Fiqh”, defend religious education and develop its

68 DUBAI SUN

Resolutionno.238(9/24)onhedginginIslamicfinancial purposes of Islamic Sharia and the partial
Sharia regulations for contracts when they
institutions, mentioned the recommendations practice Ijtihad (independent reasoning) to
structure Islamic financial products in general,
issued by the academic seminar conducted and draft hedging contracts in particular. The
resolution also recommended investment
by the academy on this matter. The resolution and treasury departments on institutional
level and entities responsible for financial and
reaffirmed the academy’s resolutions on hedging monetary policies on a national level to attain
a balance between debts and duties, and
in financial transactions in its 23rd session. The wealth to make sure they do not incur debt
that affects the economy.
resolution explained the general meaning of hedging
DUBAI SUN 69
transactions and their formats. It outlined in detail

hedging transactions, which are prohibited by Sharia,

their formats, and the reasons behind the prohibition.

The resolution also explained Sharia provisions on

alternative hedging instruments. It recommended all

Sharia councils, Fatwa and Sharia supervisory bodies,

as well as scholars and researchers to combine the

70 DUBAI SUN