Abu dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has launched the 'Contributions of Muslim Scholars' initiative following directives from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. This initiative aims to highlight the civilisational role of Muslim scholars across different eras.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative seeks to showcase the pioneering scientific contributions of Islamic civilisation and the role Muslim scholars played in establishing many modern sciences. It aligns with the UAE's vision of preserving shared human cultural heritage and extends the cultural message embodied by the Light and Peace Museum at the Centre. The museum acts as a platform introducing the world to the depth of Islamic civilisation and its human values.
The Centre has introduced an integrated programme of cultural events and activities as part of the initiative. These include an exhibition documenting Muslim scholars' contributions, discussion sessions, a visual cultural series, and activities enriching Abu Dhabi's cultural landscape. The launch event featured distinguished guests such as Dr. Omar Habtour Al Derei, Dr. Sab'a Salem Al Kaabi, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Majed Al Ali, and ambassadors from Spain and Singapore. The first theme, 'Astronomy and Mathematics', spans three months, highlighting the role of Muslim scholars in these fields.
Dr. Yousif Alobaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, stated that the initiative aligns with the leadership's vision and highlights the Centre's cultural and knowledge role. The initiative aims to reinforce concepts of cultural identity and deepen awareness of Islamic culture's contributions to human civilisation.
The exhibition features rare manuscripts and artefacts, offering an interactive experience supported by multimedia. Notable items include works by Qutb al-Din al-Shirazi, Nasir al-Din al-Tusi, and historical instruments like an Arabic celestial globe and qibla compass. The Centre intends to introduce new scientific themes to explore the global influence of Islamic culture.
A cultural discussion session focused on Islamic scientific heritage, featuring presentations by experts such as Adnan Al-Rais, Professor Mashhoor Ahmad Salameh, and Professor Masoud Idris. The session highlighted achievements in astronomy and mathematics and their role in bridging civilisational heritage and modern sciences.
Coinciding with the initiative's launch, the Centre released the first episode of the 'Contributions of Muslim Scholars' series. This series, produced by skilled Emirati teams, showcases the role of Islamic civilisation in advancing scientific knowledge. It uses artificial intelligence in design and production, reflecting the initiative's core idea and civilisational messages.
Visitors to the exhibition can enrich their experience by visiting the Light and Peace Museum, which provides a comprehensive glimpse into Islamic civilisation through rare artefacts and interactive experiences. The Centre's wider cultural efforts include permanent and temporary exhibitions that reinforce the Mosque's position as a global hub for cultural dialogue.
The 'Contributions of Muslim Scholars' exhibition is open during the Mosque's official visiting hours, with details available on the Centre's website and Instagram platform.