Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE will impose fines ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh200,000 on institutions that issue fatwas or religious rulings without proper authorization, the UAE Council for Fatwa announced. The penalties are part of the UAE federal law that mandates that only the UAE Council for Fatwa can issue general religious rulings, according to the council on Monday (September 30). In addition to fines, institutions found violating the law may face closure, with fines doubling in cases of repeat offenses. The new measures are aimed at regulating the issuance of fatwas and ensuring that only licensed bodies are authorized to provide religious guidance in the country. The UAE Council for Fatwa, chaired by Abdullah bin Bayyah, is responsible for issuing general, urgent, and new fatwas, as well as conducting research in various religious matters. The council also works on training muftis and enhancing the professionalism of those involved in the issuance of religious rulings. The crackdown on unauthorized fatwas is part of the UAE’s broader efforts to maintain social harmony and prevent the spread of unregulated or harmful religious advice. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued federal decrees earlier this year to form the UAE Council for Fatwa. These new regulations underscore the importance of adhering to authorized sources for religious rulings. ICA/Expat Media
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