UAE Strengthens Control Over Religious Rulings with Exclusive Fatwa Council Authority

The UAE has reinforced its stance on religious rulings, emphasizing that only the UAE Council for Fatwa is authorized to issue fatwas under Federal Law No. (3) of 2024. Violators face fines from Dh10,000 to Dh200,000, and potential closures for unlicensed religious guidance. Repeat offenses will result in doubled fines. Led by Abdullah bin Bayyah, the Council also oversees fatwa-related research, licensing, and practitioner training. The goal is to ensure standardized religious guidance across the UAE while tackling modern and emerging issues with legal opinions and fatwas.

 

Furthermore, this measure aims to prevent unauthorized individuals or institutions from issuing fatwas that may mislead the public, fostering a more centralized and accountable religious ruling process. The Council is also responsible for training fatwa practitioners to maintain the highest standard of religious and legal knowledge.

 

These new measures highlight the UAE’s commitment to promoting religious clarity, accountability, and the proper dissemination of Islamic rulings within the country.

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