One month prior, an open letter to Islam was released, outlining Judaism’s perspective on Islam and proposing dialogue. Commonalities between the two religions were discussed, along with criticisms of Islam and proposed reforms. The letter was distributed in Hebrew, Arabic, French, and English to key figures in the Muslim world, eliciting positive responses, including an invitation to visit the UAE.Through meetings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including visits to the Grand Mosque, interactions occurred with notable Emirati personalities. Discussions revolved around dispelling Islamic claims against Israel, recognizing Israel’s legitimacy, and addressing misunderstandings about Jews being a nation, not just a religious group. Emiratis expressed opposition to Islamist movements and emphasized the importance of tolerance and coexistence.The Emiratis’ commitment to promoting a tolerant Islam was evident, though their influence as a religious authority may be limited due to their location not being a central hub of Islamic scholarship. Despite this, their efforts to counter extremist views with a message of tolerance were noted, showing a departure from mainstream interpretations of Islamic teachings.Discussions also touched on theological differences between Judaism and Islam, with potential for further exploration of shared perspectives. The writer concluded that the UAE’s embrace of repentance and dialogue signifies a positive step forward. While not expecting immediate changes, the writer emphasized the value of honest religious discourse in addressing conflicts and paving the way for progress.
Unlocking Peace Through Emirati Islam
