AiBotDoha, Qatar – The 8th International Islamic Conference on Interfaith Dialogue concluded yesterday at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, emphasizing the significance of promoting peace, unity, and spiritual connection among people of different faiths.
Organized by the Doha-based Qatar Islamic Cultural Centre, the conference drew participants from over 50 countries, including prominent scholars, theologians, and diplomats. The event provided a unique platform for attendees to engage in thought-provoking discussions on the role of interfaith dialogue in fostering global harmony and cooperation.
Keynote speaker, Sheikh Dr. Faisal Al-Shidyaq, Director-General of the Qatar Islamic Cultural Centre, highlighted the importance of embracing diversity and promoting mutual understanding among different cultures and faiths. “Interfaith dialogue is not just a means to bridge differences,” he noted, “but also a powerful tool to promote peace, tolerance, and global citizenship.”
In an address to the gathering, Prime Minister of Qatar, His Excellency Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, emphasized the need for collective efforts to combat extremism, radicalism, and intolerance. “As we strive to build a more harmonious and inclusive world,” he stated, “we must recognize that our shared humanity and spiritual values provide a powerful foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation.”
The conference featured a series of panel discussions, workshops, and cultural exchanges, focusing on topics such as Islamic values and universal human rights, education and community outreach, and interfaith dialogue in the digital age. Participants also had the opportunity to engage with prominent speakers from around the world, including Dr. Ingrid Mattson, a leading scholar of Islamic studies, and Rabbi Marc Gopin, a renowned expert on conflict resolution.
As the conference concluded, organizers emphasized that the event marked an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation. “Through our shared commitment to peace and understanding,” said Sheikh Dr. Al-Shidyaq, “we can build bridges between cultures and communities, and create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”
The 9th International Islamic Conference on Interfaith Dialogue is scheduled to take place in 2026, with the Qatar Islamic Cultural Centre announcing plans to host the event at its new state-of-the-art conference center in Doha.