Qatar’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs took part in two key virtual meetings held under the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) framework to advance Islamic affairs and endowment work across member states. The sessions included the 42nd gathering of the Standing Committee of Experts in Islamic Affairs and Endowments and the 13th meeting of the committee focused on representing Islam’s true image and addressing issues of hatred, intolerance, extremism, and sectarianism.

Leading Qatar’s delegation was Mohammed Jabr al-Mannai, director of the Department of Islamic Affairs, alongside Eng. Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Meer, assistant director general of the General Department of Endowments. Representatives from the ministries and bodies responsible for Islamic affairs and endowments in GCC countries also joined the video conference.

Discussions covered a range of initiatives and proposals aimed at enhancing the organizational frameworks and societal impact of Islamic endowments. Among the highlighted topics was the “Gulf Endowment Week” initiative, designed to serve as a regional awareness campaign emphasizing the civilizational and developmental contributions of endowments. Delegates also reviewed the “Mafaz Competition,” a project intended to promote awareness about endowment work, charitable activities, and volunteerism within member states.

In addition, participants considered establishing a national index to measure the social impact of endowments. This index aims to improve governance and transparency in endowment management, thereby increasing operational efficiency. Another subject under review was a proposal for fostering the exchange of expertise in Islamic affairs among GCC countries, helping to build collective knowledge and best practices.

Architectural identity was also on the agenda, with a focus on mosque minaret designs that balance tradition and innovation. The meetings touched upon the importance of Arab cultural dialogue between East and West, highlighting the role of Islamic institutions in facilitating cultural exchange and promoting openness.

The committee devoted to combating misconceptions about Islam emphasized ongoing Gulf efforts to promote values of moderation, tolerance, and coexistence through a moderate Islamic discourse. These initiatives are part of a coordinated approach among GCC states to counteract extremism and sectarian divisions while presenting an accurate representation of Islam globally.