VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued Law No (14) of 2017 regulating awqaf and endowments in Dubai, UAE. HH also issued Law No. (17) of 2017 on the Mohammed Bin Rashid Global
Centre for Endowment Consultancy (MBRGCEC).
HH said that endowment establishments are key partner of governments in community development and play a historic role in development in the Arab world and globally. He also said that the UAE and Dubai aims to provide the best legislations in this domain.
Law No. (14) of 2017 aims to support the UAE vision regarding charity and humanitarian efforts, establishing a comprehensive and modern legal framework that addresses the needs of the community. The Law institutionalises the management, operations and protection of endowments and outlines the framework for providing a conducive environment for charitable activities and community contributions in the fields of education, healthcare, culture, arts, environment, sports and social unity.
The law specifies the responsibilities and obligations of concerned entities, and prescribes the regulations and procedures that govern the management and development of awqaf and endowments. It also defines and regulates the MBRGCEC’s Dubai Endowment Sign which is awarded to government and private entities that contribute substantially to the community.
The law further authorises Dubai’s Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation to issue licenses for waqf establishment in collaboration with the MBRGCEC. The two entities outline the regulations that govern the waqf establishments, including licensing, governance regime and penalties for licensing violations. The Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation is also responsible for overseeing and monitoring the waqf establishment.
Pursuant to Law No (14) of 2017, endowments are subject to Federal Law No (5) of 1985 without prejudice to the terms and conditions set forth by the grantor or otherwise by the Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation and the MBRGCEC. The Board of Dubai’s Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation, in collaboration with the MBRGCEC, is authorised to issue the policies and procedures required to implement this law. The law does not contradict or challenge the waqf-related laws applicable in Dubai International Financial Centre.
Pursuant to Law No. (17) of 2017, the MBRGCEC aims to support the vision of Dubai to become a global humanitarian hub, enabling waqf and endowments to match various local, regional and international developmental needs. The law authorises the centre to provide consulting services for individuals and organisations according to international best practices, identify the critical development requirements that waqf can support, enhance knowledge and capabilities in the fields of awqaf and endowments by conducting research and studies, organising conferences and workshops and signing partnership agreements with specialised local, regional and international organisations.
The centre is also authorised to issue the MBRGCEC’s Dubai Endowment Sign according to specified regulations and procedures. To qualify for the signage, the individual or entity must have launched
sustainable waqf-related initiatives, projects or contributions.
The law also authorises the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives to appoint the Secretary General of the MBRGCEC.
This law annuls any other legislation that contradicts or challenges its articles. Both laws will be published in the Official Gazette and considered valid from the date of publication.
Showing posts with label awqaf. Show all posts
Showing posts with label awqaf. Show all posts
Monday, 30 October 2017
Wednesday, 1 February 2017
Selected mosques in UAE named after martyrs
The UAE Martyrs' Families' Affairs Office at the Abu Dhabi Crown
Prince's Court announced that a number of mosques across the UAE have
been named after the nation's martyrs. The initiative coincided with a
nationwide campaign launched under the hashtag "#UAEisproudofyou" to
commemorate their sacrifices.
There are 5,470 mosques across the emirates as of November 2016, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments (Awqaf)has shared: 674 mosques in Abu Dhabi, 1,073 in Al Ain, 935 in the West Region, 389 in Dubai, 727 in Sharjah and Khor Fakkan, in addition to 287 mosques in Ajman, 165 in Umm Al Quwain, 914 in Ras Al Khaimah, and 360 in Fujairah.
New mosques opened in 2016, include Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri mosque in the Musaffah Industrial area, Afraa Al Qubaisi mosque in Shakhboot City, Mubarak and Matar Al Muhairi mosque in al Bateen.
There are 5,470 mosques across the emirates as of November 2016, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments (Awqaf)has shared: 674 mosques in Abu Dhabi, 1,073 in Al Ain, 935 in the West Region, 389 in Dubai, 727 in Sharjah and Khor Fakkan, in addition to 287 mosques in Ajman, 165 in Umm Al Quwain, 914 in Ras Al Khaimah, and 360 in Fujairah.
New mosques opened in 2016, include Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri mosque in the Musaffah Industrial area, Afraa Al Qubaisi mosque in Shakhboot City, Mubarak and Matar Al Muhairi mosque in al Bateen.
Tuesday, 24 January 2017
Awqaf completes 94 mosques in Al Ain in 2016-2017
 |
| Source: Awqaf. A mosque in Al Ain. |
Abdul Aziz al Ghaithi, Director of the Awqaf branch at Al Ain, said that in its strategic plan for building mosques, Awqaf focused on constructing the mosques on highways, in remote areas and in the city centre. There was a substantial improvement in mosques' design and construction criteria in terms of the structure, furniture, maintenance, he said.
"Awqaf ensured adoption of high standards in building the mosques in the industrial area, Hili Industrial Area and areas with high population density. The aim is to provide spacious comfortable mosques to replace the haphazard and caravan (temporary) mosques, which were razed as they were neither licensed by municipality nor by Awqaf, failing to meet basic safety standards, and thereby putting the lives of worshippers themselves in danger. Some of those were replaced by new mosques based on the need of each area," al Ghaithi noted.
The new mosques can accommodate for 1,500 to 2,000 worshipers, he said. The new mosques are, in general, consistent with the UAE heritage and include attachments and halls for Quran memorisation, lessons for males and females and women's musalla (Editor's note: prayer area). Unlike the old mosques, the new ones do not have columns, can accommodate more worshipers, and include more water closets and ablution corners, al Ghaithi said.
The new mosques, he added, feature all the sustainability standards in terms of energy and water saving and are compliant with the requirements of Abu Dhabi Council for Urban Planning as well as the standards defined for those with special needs. He said that Awqaf's strategy for future mosque construction is compliant with the requirements of the Abu Dhabi Council for Urban Planning and those of Al Ain's Municipality city planning.
Al Ghaithi further shared that the replacement building for Sheikh Hazza Mosque in the Al Mutaredh area is expected to be completed within two months.
Tuesday, 17 January 2017
UAE's Awqaf shares website visit details for 2016
The UAE General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) has reported that its website has attracted more than 7,855,727 visitors in 2016, an estimated increase of more than 45% compared to 2015, when the website recorded around 5.4 million visits. The achievement comes on the heels of the
initiative of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, to support m-government
and innovation.
According to statistics issued by Awqaf's IT department, fatwa (فتوى) topped the list of preferred services, registering and increase of 55% in the number of visits, followed by Friday sermons and prayer timings. The statistics also revealed that visitors to the website came from 217 countries around the world.
Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Awqaf's Chairman said, "This significant rise in the number of visitors to the website is due to many reasons, including credibility and public trust in the moderate religious discourse adhered to by the UAE, which is the state of tolerance, moderation and respect of peoples' cultures and civilisations, this being the essence of authenticity and modernity."
"Another factor lies in the regular update of the website's content in both Arabic and English and addition of new electronic services that ensured users quick and effective access, and allows positive interaction with the users through multiple channels of communication."
In early January, Awqaf disclosed that its Official Fatwa Centre has answered more than 2.8 million queries since its inception. Some 2.4 million were answered over the phone, 282,000 via an SMS service, and over 64,000 queries were answered on Awqaf's website. All responses are archived and can be accessed online.
Dr al Kaabi noted that the centre was set up to enhance the practice of religious fatwa reference in the UAE, and is manned by trusted muftis (مفتي, an Islamic scholar qualified to provide authoritative opinions in the Islamic context, or fatwas) and scholars who are known for their moderate and tolerant approach as well as high academic qualifications. He added that the centre is now a reliable point of reference for religious queries from the public. "This is because religious fatwas are meant to offer a jurisprudential point of view, clarifying all its relevant terminologies, principles and objective. Such a task can only be done by scholar who are versed in Islamic fiqh (فقه, or Islamic jurisprudence)," Dr al Kaabi said.
The Official Fatwa Centre's muftis answer the public's queries in Arabic, English and Urdu. A group fatwa mechanism is followed to combat one-sided opinions. To achieve this, the centre offers a fatwa consultation service in addition to the possibility of referring a query to another mufti. A mufti can also avoid answering a query about which they do not have sufficient knowledge and mark it for the centre's supervisor to call the fatwa seeker and answer his/her query.
According to statistics issued by Awqaf's IT department, fatwa (فتوى) topped the list of preferred services, registering and increase of 55% in the number of visits, followed by Friday sermons and prayer timings. The statistics also revealed that visitors to the website came from 217 countries around the world.
Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Awqaf's Chairman said, "This significant rise in the number of visitors to the website is due to many reasons, including credibility and public trust in the moderate religious discourse adhered to by the UAE, which is the state of tolerance, moderation and respect of peoples' cultures and civilisations, this being the essence of authenticity and modernity."
"Another factor lies in the regular update of the website's content in both Arabic and English and addition of new electronic services that ensured users quick and effective access, and allows positive interaction with the users through multiple channels of communication."
In early January, Awqaf disclosed that its Official Fatwa Centre has answered more than 2.8 million queries since its inception. Some 2.4 million were answered over the phone, 282,000 via an SMS service, and over 64,000 queries were answered on Awqaf's website. All responses are archived and can be accessed online.
Dr al Kaabi noted that the centre was set up to enhance the practice of religious fatwa reference in the UAE, and is manned by trusted muftis (مفتي, an Islamic scholar qualified to provide authoritative opinions in the Islamic context, or fatwas) and scholars who are known for their moderate and tolerant approach as well as high academic qualifications. He added that the centre is now a reliable point of reference for religious queries from the public. "This is because religious fatwas are meant to offer a jurisprudential point of view, clarifying all its relevant terminologies, principles and objective. Such a task can only be done by scholar who are versed in Islamic fiqh (فقه, or Islamic jurisprudence)," Dr al Kaabi said.
The Official Fatwa Centre's muftis answer the public's queries in Arabic, English and Urdu. A group fatwa mechanism is followed to combat one-sided opinions. To achieve this, the centre offers a fatwa consultation service in addition to the possibility of referring a query to another mufti. A mufti can also avoid answering a query about which they do not have sufficient knowledge and mark it for the centre's supervisor to call the fatwa seeker and answer his/her query.
Monday, 16 January 2017
UAE Awqaf details measures to drive a moderate religious approach
The UAE General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) has shared the measures it has taken to ensure a moderate religious approach.
At a symposium attended by around 300 Emirati teachers of Islamic education from the Ministry of Education, UAE, Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Awqaf's Chairman, underlined Awqaf's commitment to combating extremists and preventing them from disseminating their radical ideology throughout any religious, media or educational outlet in the UAE. Measures taken by Awqaf in this regard include putting into effect the Cabinet decision no 39 of 2012 on safeguarding the sanctity of mosques and prohibiting their use for meetings, delivering lectures and education without official approvals. Awqaf also strives for putting into administration the legal monitoring capacity of mosque inspectors to report violations, said Dr al Kaabi.
Other measures listed by Dr al Kaabi included continuous assessment of Awqaf's imams, khateebs*, preachers and Quran tutors, so as to exclude those of extremist views. This is achieved by adopting precise standards in employing those who are involved with the religious discourse. Such standards stipulate adherence to the moderate approach and prohibiting engagement with any untrusted or forbidden religious or political group, Dr al Kaabi explained.
Dr al Kaabi also shed light on the UAE anti-discrimination and anti-hatred law, noting that Awqaf has distributed printed versions of the law to all its members. Moreover, Awqaf's members have signed the charter of tolerance that provides for the commitment to respecting the divine religions and others' beliefs, promoting coexistence and harmony amongst all the constituents of the Emirati society, and abandoning discrimination between individuals and groups. It further stresses the need for abandoning any statement that may connote to hatred, discrimination or sectarianism.
*A khateeb, خطيب, is a person who delivers the sermon at Friday prayers and at Eid prayers. The sermon can be delivered by the imam or by someone else.
At a symposium attended by around 300 Emirati teachers of Islamic education from the Ministry of Education, UAE, Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Awqaf's Chairman, underlined Awqaf's commitment to combating extremists and preventing them from disseminating their radical ideology throughout any religious, media or educational outlet in the UAE. Measures taken by Awqaf in this regard include putting into effect the Cabinet decision no 39 of 2012 on safeguarding the sanctity of mosques and prohibiting their use for meetings, delivering lectures and education without official approvals. Awqaf also strives for putting into administration the legal monitoring capacity of mosque inspectors to report violations, said Dr al Kaabi.
Other measures listed by Dr al Kaabi included continuous assessment of Awqaf's imams, khateebs*, preachers and Quran tutors, so as to exclude those of extremist views. This is achieved by adopting precise standards in employing those who are involved with the religious discourse. Such standards stipulate adherence to the moderate approach and prohibiting engagement with any untrusted or forbidden religious or political group, Dr al Kaabi explained.
Dr al Kaabi also shed light on the UAE anti-discrimination and anti-hatred law, noting that Awqaf has distributed printed versions of the law to all its members. Moreover, Awqaf's members have signed the charter of tolerance that provides for the commitment to respecting the divine religions and others' beliefs, promoting coexistence and harmony amongst all the constituents of the Emirati society, and abandoning discrimination between individuals and groups. It further stresses the need for abandoning any statement that may connote to hatred, discrimination or sectarianism.
*A khateeb, خطيب, is a person who delivers the sermon at Friday prayers and at Eid prayers. The sermon can be delivered by the imam or by someone else.
Thursday, 13 October 2016
New organisation unifies efforts to build a global ecosystem for endowment investments
+New Awqaf International Organization (AIO) is aligned with HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision in enhancing Dubai’s position as capital of the Islamic economy
+The initiative enhances the role of endowments as one of the most important social and economic development tools
In line with the directives and support of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, HE Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future and Chairman of the Executive Council of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has announced the launch of the Awqaf International Organization (AIO) during the opening ceremony of the third Global Islamic Economy Summit (GIES 2016) held in Dubai, UAE.
Instituted by Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (AMAF) in collaboration with the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC) and the Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy, the first-of-its-kind initiative globally aims to enhance the role of endowments in the development of societies worldwide.
During his keynote speech at the GIES opening ceremony, Al Gergawi said that endowments is one of the most important social and economic development tools.
Al Gergawi said: “The initiative is a main pillar for the Dubai: Capital of Islamic Economy initiative that aims to develop the awqaf sector and unify the efforts of global awqaf entities and organisations to improve the role of waqf as a key catalyst of economic development.
“The new organisation will unify all local and global efforts to establish a shared system for endowment investments whose laws and regulations are approved by all awqaf organisations worldwide. This step will further enhance the role of the endowment sector and make it a partner in financial transactions and investments in various Islamic economy sectors.”
The press conference was attended by His Excellency Tayeb Al Rais, Secretary General of AMAF, His Excellency Abdullah Mohammed Al Awar, CEO of Dubai Islamic Economy Development Center, and His Excellency Dr. Hamad Al Hammady, Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy.
Tayeb Al Rais, Secretary General of AMAF, said the AIO is an umbrella organisation that will empower the work of awqaf organisations by "opening up channels of coordination, collaboration and exchange of best practice."
“This new global is based on our view of the current state of Islamic societies in the region and around the world. Such societies are in urgent need of holistic and sustainable development that is not only in harmony with Islamic values, but also grounded in the realities of modern development," he said.
"We are proud to note that there are several Islamic endowments active around the world. Their tireless efforts have benefited various underprivileged sections of society in terms of imparting education, quality healthcare, vocational training, employment and other socioeconomic support."
Al Rais added that the AIO will facilitate a better use of the potential of endowments, and place authorities in a stronger position to help people at the grassroots level, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
The founding members of the AIO include:
Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation
Dubai Islamic Economy Development Center
Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy
The Department of Awqaf in Sharjah
Awqaf SA (National Awqaf Foundation of South Africa)
Awqaf Canada (National Awqaf Foundation of Canada)
Awqaf New Zealand
Awqaf USA
Awqaf Australia
The Independent Committee of Islamic Finance in Europe
Awqaf Sheikh Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Rajhi
Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer of DIEDC, said that the launch of AIO reinforces Dubai’s position as an incubator of innovative concepts that advance the Islamic economy. He noted, "With the establishment of the AIO, we expect to achieve a positive impact on the lives of communities across the globe. We also anticipate the AIO to play a pivotal role in strengthening the functioning of endowment institutions through facilitating the financing of SMEs in these countries, and providing the right human resource training to advance their competencies."
Dr Hamad Al Hammadi, Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy, said: “The vision of our wise leadership has always focused on addressing the root challenges first, which then yield sustainable outcomes. Unequal social development is one root cause that often leads to a decline in social relations and slows economic growth. We take pride in Dubai’s and the UAE’s constant efforts that seek to enhance the wellbeing of all people.”
Imad Kaddoura, Secretary General of Awqaf Canada, said: “As the Islamic economy framework gains ground and becomes a vital part of the mainstream global economy, it is crucial that we consolidate our efforts to manage and invest awqaf assets, capital, and returns in a shari’ah-compliant manner. The newly established AIO will enable awqaf projects to play a stronger role in our society as sustainable projects beneficial to our stakeholders, as well as the wider global community. We appreciate AMAF’s support and dedication to lead in the launch of this ground-breaking initiative."
Khalid Sukkarieh, Secretary General of Awqaf Australia, said the AIO is a turning point in crystallising the efforts of awqaf international entities. "With this new body we can all work together on a global scale to achieve social development and pursue a mandate that transcends geographical borders. Awqaf has always had a historical place in uniting people of different nationalities and faiths - without discrimination and this is a message we can send globally."
Zeinoul Abedien Cajee, National Coordinator of Awqaf SA, added: “The newly-established Awqaf International can help unify and standardise the work of awqaf entities across the world. In doing so, it will enable awqaf international entities to leverage best practices, and customise initiatives according to geographies to achieve maximum social impact.”
Talib Al Marri, Secretary General of the Sharjah Awqaf General Trust, commented: ““Through this initiative, and in collaboration with other awqaf entities, we hope to enhance all of our efforts. The AIO aims to advance awqaf traditions, strengthen its role in society, and establish awqaf international standards to meet the needs and priorities of the public which can then benefit every segment of society. We commend the efforts of all the founder members and DIEDC in undertaking the responsibility of instituting this unique global organisation and look forward to supporting and adding value to this noble and collaborative endeavour.”
Bader Bin Mohammed Al-Rajhi, Chairman of the National Committee of Endowments, said: “The role of awqaf and waqf investments is part of our religious beliefs, our history and society. Now, as we join together in the new AIO, we will be united in spreading the message of the importance of waqf investments and trust formations on a global level. This will help change the future of Islamic finance and we are proud to be among the founders of this important new group.”
Husain Benyounis, Secretary General of Awqaf New Zealand, said: “The AIO has been launched not merely to coordinate the efforts of member foundations and entities, but to create a global network that shares best practices and can manage international endowments and funds. The body has also been tasked with recommending unified templates for legal frameworks, supporting the organising of awqaf investments, and overseeing applications of sharia standards in accounting, reviewing, and governance.”
Tareq Abou Nour, Secretary General of the Independent European Committee for Islamic Finance Studies, said: “The launch of this global awqaf organisation is the result of the growing interest in the Islamic economy, and its prominent presence in various financial sectors of significance. The AIO reflects a bright future in creating an international platform that convenes all awqaf and like-minded philanthropic foundations. We believe that collaboration is a vital part of change, and awqaf’s new organisation can successfully utilise this approach to enhance its outreach.”
+The initiative enhances the role of endowments as one of the most important social and economic development tools
In line with the directives and support of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, HE Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future and Chairman of the Executive Council of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has announced the launch of the Awqaf International Organization (AIO) during the opening ceremony of the third Global Islamic Economy Summit (GIES 2016) held in Dubai, UAE.
Instituted by Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (AMAF) in collaboration with the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC) and the Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy, the first-of-its-kind initiative globally aims to enhance the role of endowments in the development of societies worldwide.
During his keynote speech at the GIES opening ceremony, Al Gergawi said that endowments is one of the most important social and economic development tools.
Al Gergawi said: “The initiative is a main pillar for the Dubai: Capital of Islamic Economy initiative that aims to develop the awqaf sector and unify the efforts of global awqaf entities and organisations to improve the role of waqf as a key catalyst of economic development.
“The new organisation will unify all local and global efforts to establish a shared system for endowment investments whose laws and regulations are approved by all awqaf organisations worldwide. This step will further enhance the role of the endowment sector and make it a partner in financial transactions and investments in various Islamic economy sectors.”
The press conference was attended by His Excellency Tayeb Al Rais, Secretary General of AMAF, His Excellency Abdullah Mohammed Al Awar, CEO of Dubai Islamic Economy Development Center, and His Excellency Dr. Hamad Al Hammady, Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy.
Tayeb Al Rais, Secretary General of AMAF, said the AIO is an umbrella organisation that will empower the work of awqaf organisations by "opening up channels of coordination, collaboration and exchange of best practice."
“This new global is based on our view of the current state of Islamic societies in the region and around the world. Such societies are in urgent need of holistic and sustainable development that is not only in harmony with Islamic values, but also grounded in the realities of modern development," he said.
"We are proud to note that there are several Islamic endowments active around the world. Their tireless efforts have benefited various underprivileged sections of society in terms of imparting education, quality healthcare, vocational training, employment and other socioeconomic support."
Al Rais added that the AIO will facilitate a better use of the potential of endowments, and place authorities in a stronger position to help people at the grassroots level, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
The founding members of the AIO include:
Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation
Dubai Islamic Economy Development Center
Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy
The Department of Awqaf in Sharjah
Awqaf SA (National Awqaf Foundation of South Africa)
Awqaf Canada (National Awqaf Foundation of Canada)
Awqaf New Zealand
Awqaf USA
Awqaf Australia
The Independent Committee of Islamic Finance in Europe
Awqaf Sheikh Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Rajhi
Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer of DIEDC, said that the launch of AIO reinforces Dubai’s position as an incubator of innovative concepts that advance the Islamic economy. He noted, "With the establishment of the AIO, we expect to achieve a positive impact on the lives of communities across the globe. We also anticipate the AIO to play a pivotal role in strengthening the functioning of endowment institutions through facilitating the financing of SMEs in these countries, and providing the right human resource training to advance their competencies."
Dr Hamad Al Hammadi, Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy, said: “The vision of our wise leadership has always focused on addressing the root challenges first, which then yield sustainable outcomes. Unequal social development is one root cause that often leads to a decline in social relations and slows economic growth. We take pride in Dubai’s and the UAE’s constant efforts that seek to enhance the wellbeing of all people.”
Imad Kaddoura, Secretary General of Awqaf Canada, said: “As the Islamic economy framework gains ground and becomes a vital part of the mainstream global economy, it is crucial that we consolidate our efforts to manage and invest awqaf assets, capital, and returns in a shari’ah-compliant manner. The newly established AIO will enable awqaf projects to play a stronger role in our society as sustainable projects beneficial to our stakeholders, as well as the wider global community. We appreciate AMAF’s support and dedication to lead in the launch of this ground-breaking initiative."
Khalid Sukkarieh, Secretary General of Awqaf Australia, said the AIO is a turning point in crystallising the efforts of awqaf international entities. "With this new body we can all work together on a global scale to achieve social development and pursue a mandate that transcends geographical borders. Awqaf has always had a historical place in uniting people of different nationalities and faiths - without discrimination and this is a message we can send globally."
Zeinoul Abedien Cajee, National Coordinator of Awqaf SA, added: “The newly-established Awqaf International can help unify and standardise the work of awqaf entities across the world. In doing so, it will enable awqaf international entities to leverage best practices, and customise initiatives according to geographies to achieve maximum social impact.”
Talib Al Marri, Secretary General of the Sharjah Awqaf General Trust, commented: ““Through this initiative, and in collaboration with other awqaf entities, we hope to enhance all of our efforts. The AIO aims to advance awqaf traditions, strengthen its role in society, and establish awqaf international standards to meet the needs and priorities of the public which can then benefit every segment of society. We commend the efforts of all the founder members and DIEDC in undertaking the responsibility of instituting this unique global organisation and look forward to supporting and adding value to this noble and collaborative endeavour.”
Bader Bin Mohammed Al-Rajhi, Chairman of the National Committee of Endowments, said: “The role of awqaf and waqf investments is part of our religious beliefs, our history and society. Now, as we join together in the new AIO, we will be united in spreading the message of the importance of waqf investments and trust formations on a global level. This will help change the future of Islamic finance and we are proud to be among the founders of this important new group.”
Husain Benyounis, Secretary General of Awqaf New Zealand, said: “The AIO has been launched not merely to coordinate the efforts of member foundations and entities, but to create a global network that shares best practices and can manage international endowments and funds. The body has also been tasked with recommending unified templates for legal frameworks, supporting the organising of awqaf investments, and overseeing applications of sharia standards in accounting, reviewing, and governance.”
Tareq Abou Nour, Secretary General of the Independent European Committee for Islamic Finance Studies, said: “The launch of this global awqaf organisation is the result of the growing interest in the Islamic economy, and its prominent presence in various financial sectors of significance. The AIO reflects a bright future in creating an international platform that convenes all awqaf and like-minded philanthropic foundations. We believe that collaboration is a vital part of change, and awqaf’s new organisation can successfully utilise this approach to enhance its outreach.”
posted from Bloggeroid
Monday, 22 August 2016
Awqaf shares pilgrim's information kit
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments of the UAE (Awqaf) has printed an information kit on Hajj and umrah which shall be provided to every pilgrim in the UAE. The kit contains six books with topics including: guidance to pilgrims, how to perform Haij, jurisprudence of Hajj and umrah, fatwas on Hajj and umrah, supplication in Haij and umrah as well as rulings and etiquette during Hajj.
The kit is a result of the reading initiative launched by HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President, and will be given as a gift to every pilgrim in campaigns and at airport departure points.
The kit is a result of the reading initiative launched by HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President, and will be given as a gift to every pilgrim in campaigns and at airport departure points.
Monday, 15 August 2016
Eighty radio episodes about the Hajj rituals and virtues
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments of the UAE (Awqaf), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Holy Quran radio station, the most popular state radio station in the UAE, has recorded 80 radio episodes about Hajj rituals and virtues.
The episodes include the legacy of the Hajj, the Hajj mission, Hajj verses and guidance, the Hajj of the prophet (ﷺ), fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) of women in Hajj and the daily broadcast Yastaftoonak (asking for fatwas).
The episodes were prepared and recorded by a group of the most prominent male and female preachers of the Awqaf. The radio will start airing these episodes starting 20 Dhulqa'adah, during the preparation phase for travelling to the holy sites.
The episodes include the legacy of the Hajj, the Hajj mission, Hajj verses and guidance, the Hajj of the prophet (ﷺ), fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) of women in Hajj and the daily broadcast Yastaftoonak (asking for fatwas).
The episodes were prepared and recorded by a group of the most prominent male and female preachers of the Awqaf. The radio will start airing these episodes starting 20 Dhulqa'adah, during the preparation phase for travelling to the holy sites.
Tuesday, 9 August 2016
UAE Awqaf updates on mosque ecosystem
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments of the UAE (Awqaf) has discussed the support system for mosque management and laid down a plan for an advanced electronic system that can be updated regularly.
The discussions came during an expanded workshop headed by Dr Mohammed Mater al Kaabi, Awqafs Chairman, and attended by all Awqaf executive directors, department managers and managers of all branches across the UAE.
The system would integrate information about all mosque employees in addition to information pertaining to each mosque including location, date of construction, assets, systems, date of maintenance, preaching lessons, lectures and lecturers.
The workshop also discussed Friday sermons, khateebs'* qualifications as well as evaluation of khutbah (Friday sermon) topics and ideas to keep pace with the present requirements and future aspirations. It addressed as well the evaluation of khateebs' performance so as to provide training courses to those who need further qualification. The courses would cover the Arabic language, quality of performance, presentation and enriching khateebs' religious and worldly knowledge. The evaluation process would also include Quran tutors, administrators, Quran memorisation centres and the Imam al Jamai initiative that oversees a number of mosques.
During the workshop, participants were also briefed by the Awqaf's engineering department on the developments achieved in the construction of the model memorisation centres in each of the emirates, Imams' accommodation attached to mosques and new Awqaf branches with unified designs.
An initiative to fund new Quran memorisation centres was launched in July. At the time, HE Khaled Mohammed Saif al Neyadi, Awqaf's Executive Director for Waqf Affairs shared that more than 42,000 students are currently studying at Quran memorisation centres across the UAE. "Each of the new centres is designed to comprise 10 classes that will accommodate 250 male and female students. Each will also contain a prayer room, a nursery, attached administrative building and multi-purpose hall," al Neyadi said.
In conjunction with the education initiative nine books about Quranic sciences were issued, including two books for children, two books for the preliminary stage, three books for the memorisation stage and two books for the licensing stage.
Seven locations in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, the Western Region, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah have been set aside for the building of the centres, including for a 10-storey waqf building in Ajman which will cost AED 40 million. "Awqaf intends to construct a new memorisation centre in each of the emirates. To that effect, contracts have been signed with the consultant and the contractor in Ajman, Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah. Execution works for two centres in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have started. Meanwhile, the execution contract for one centre in Umm Al Quwain will be awarded soon," al Neyadi said at the time.
*A khateeb delivers the sermon at the mosque on Friday. It is usually the imam, the person leading the worship, but can be someone else.
The discussions came during an expanded workshop headed by Dr Mohammed Mater al Kaabi, Awqafs Chairman, and attended by all Awqaf executive directors, department managers and managers of all branches across the UAE.
The system would integrate information about all mosque employees in addition to information pertaining to each mosque including location, date of construction, assets, systems, date of maintenance, preaching lessons, lectures and lecturers.
The workshop also discussed Friday sermons, khateebs'* qualifications as well as evaluation of khutbah (Friday sermon) topics and ideas to keep pace with the present requirements and future aspirations. It addressed as well the evaluation of khateebs' performance so as to provide training courses to those who need further qualification. The courses would cover the Arabic language, quality of performance, presentation and enriching khateebs' religious and worldly knowledge. The evaluation process would also include Quran tutors, administrators, Quran memorisation centres and the Imam al Jamai initiative that oversees a number of mosques.
During the workshop, participants were also briefed by the Awqaf's engineering department on the developments achieved in the construction of the model memorisation centres in each of the emirates, Imams' accommodation attached to mosques and new Awqaf branches with unified designs.
An initiative to fund new Quran memorisation centres was launched in July. At the time, HE Khaled Mohammed Saif al Neyadi, Awqaf's Executive Director for Waqf Affairs shared that more than 42,000 students are currently studying at Quran memorisation centres across the UAE. "Each of the new centres is designed to comprise 10 classes that will accommodate 250 male and female students. Each will also contain a prayer room, a nursery, attached administrative building and multi-purpose hall," al Neyadi said.
In conjunction with the education initiative nine books about Quranic sciences were issued, including two books for children, two books for the preliminary stage, three books for the memorisation stage and two books for the licensing stage.
Seven locations in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, the Western Region, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah have been set aside for the building of the centres, including for a 10-storey waqf building in Ajman which will cost AED 40 million. "Awqaf intends to construct a new memorisation centre in each of the emirates. To that effect, contracts have been signed with the consultant and the contractor in Ajman, Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah. Execution works for two centres in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have started. Meanwhile, the execution contract for one centre in Umm Al Quwain will be awarded soon," al Neyadi said at the time.
*A khateeb delivers the sermon at the mosque on Friday. It is usually the imam, the person leading the worship, but can be someone else.
Monday, 8 August 2016
UAE Awqaf's website attracts over 1 million visits during Ramadhan
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, UAE (Awqaf UAE) has reported receiving more than a million visitors from around the globe during Ramadhan 2016. This is an estimated increase of 60% compared to 2015, the organisation said.
The increase in visits can be attributed to increasing public trust in Awqaf UAE as the official reference for fatwa (religious-related regulations) in the UAE and the services it offers, as well as the accessibility of electronic services, Awqaf UAE added.
The Awqaf website recorded some 160,000 visits to the khutbah (Friday speeches) over Ramadhan in addition to around 1 million visits to the fatwa section. Visitors came from 192 countries around the world.
Awqaf's Official Fatwa Centre answered 80,589 questions over Ramadhan, the organisation added, an estimated increase of 7,000 fatwas discussed compared to last year. The fatwas addressed questions about jurisprudence of worship, business transactions and women-specific matters.
Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Awqaf's Chairman, said, "Awqaf had to increase the Centre's capabilities in terms of scientific research and fiqh competences in order to meet the requirements of people and offer them righteous and moderate judgements in a an easy manner."
He noted that the Centre continued receiving fatwa enquiries during the Eid al Fitr official holidays until the first day of Eid. It also answered people's questions at the weekends via SMS during the holy month. Fatwas were released as well via the Awqaf's accounts on social media platforms.
Dr al Kaabi shared that as a preparation for the Hajj season, Awqaf has laid down a plan to offer fatwa services before and during the performance of the pilgrimage rites.
Website content and services are regularly updated in both Arabic and English as part of the m-Government transformation initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The increase in visits can be attributed to increasing public trust in Awqaf UAE as the official reference for fatwa (religious-related regulations) in the UAE and the services it offers, as well as the accessibility of electronic services, Awqaf UAE added.
The Awqaf website recorded some 160,000 visits to the khutbah (Friday speeches) over Ramadhan in addition to around 1 million visits to the fatwa section. Visitors came from 192 countries around the world.
Awqaf's Official Fatwa Centre answered 80,589 questions over Ramadhan, the organisation added, an estimated increase of 7,000 fatwas discussed compared to last year. The fatwas addressed questions about jurisprudence of worship, business transactions and women-specific matters.
Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Awqaf's Chairman, said, "Awqaf had to increase the Centre's capabilities in terms of scientific research and fiqh competences in order to meet the requirements of people and offer them righteous and moderate judgements in a an easy manner."
He noted that the Centre continued receiving fatwa enquiries during the Eid al Fitr official holidays until the first day of Eid. It also answered people's questions at the weekends via SMS during the holy month. Fatwas were released as well via the Awqaf's accounts on social media platforms.
Dr al Kaabi shared that as a preparation for the Hajj season, Awqaf has laid down a plan to offer fatwa services before and during the performance of the pilgrimage rites.
Website content and services are regularly updated in both Arabic and English as part of the m-Government transformation initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
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