In brief
In Ali Sabieh, Djibouti, the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs concluded a four‑year‑long scholarly course that drew 150 imams and students. The program aimed to reinforce sound Islamic beliefs, emphasize moderation and tolerance, and reject extremism. It forms part of the ministry's outreach initiatives outside Saudi Arabia to spread Quranic and Sunnah teachings.
In Ali Sabieh, Djibouti, the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance concluded its fourth scholarly course for preachers, imams, and students of Islamic knowledge on Sunday, November 5, 2026.
The program drew 150 imams and students of Islamic knowledge, along with individuals interested in Islamic affairs, who gathered at the Regional Council headquarters in Ali Sabieh.
Participants joined the Religious Attaché's Office of the Saudi Embassy in Djibouti, which represented the ministry in the region and coordinated the event’s logistics.
The curriculum covered “various Islamic and religious topics aimed at promoting a proper understanding of Islamic Sharia, reinforcing sound Islamic beliefs, and disseminating Islamic knowledge derived from the Quran and Sunnah.”
Key themes included the proper methodology for teaching and interpreting Sharia texts, the importance of contextual analysis, and the role of scholars in guiding communities.
The course also placed strong emphasis on fundamental principles of moderation and tolerance, stressing that these values are integral to authentic Islamic practice.
Speakers underscored the rejection of extremism, noting that any form of radical interpretation farthest from the Quran and Sunnah should be actively opposed and that scholars bear a responsibility to counter such narratives.
This event is part of the ministry’s broader educational and outreach programs conducted outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to disseminate Islamic knowledge based on the Quran and Sunnah, promote sound religious awareness, and reinforce the values of tolerance and moderation.
Officials say that the program seeks to strengthen religious knowledge in the Horn of Africa, where Islamic practice varies widely and where scholars can contribute to societal stability and interfaith harmony.
Looking ahead, the ministry intends to continue sending scholars to regional centers, aiming to support local religious institutions and to provide ongoing training for imams and preachers who can spread a balanced understanding of Islam.
