Syed Moosa Kaleem Al-Falahi Wins Global Islamic Finance Award 2024 -

Introduction of Private Waqf Repeal Bill, Ahead of the General Election

ABU DHABI:The recent inauguration of the BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights an interesting irony. This grand temple stands in the Muslim-majority UAE, where secularization is on the rise. This event comes shortly after the inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir in India. While Modi’s government in India blurs the lines between the state and Hindu faith and undermines minority rights, the UAE moves in the opposite direction. The UAE’s secularization, influencing Saudi Arabia as well, is a significant development in the Islamic world. This shift challenges India’s secular values. The UAE has attracted people of various religions and backgrounds to live and work there. Despite Islam being the official religion, the government allows diverse religious practices. Non-Muslims, forming a quarter of the population, have space to worship freely, with many churches, a synagogue, and a gurdwara present. Hindu gatherings and celebrations are also welcomed. The UAE’s tolerance extends beyond religion. Alcohol and pork are available, and Ramadan fasting rules are relaxed. Women have freedom in dress, and discrimination based on religion is rare. These progressive attitudes influence neighboring Saudi Arabia, where Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) is spearheading modernization efforts by reducing Islamic influence and cutting support for radical groups worldwide. This trend towards secularization in the UAE and potentially Saudi Arabia marks a significant shift in the Islamic world. For India, reduced Saudi funding for conservative mosques could lead to a return to moderate religious guidance for Indian Muslims. The UAE’s example challenges the Hindu nationalist dream of a Hindu majoritarian state, often compared to Saudi Arabia’s treatment of non-Muslims. Modi, at the temple inauguration, praised the UAE’s diversity, contrasting India’s fading secularism. As Hindu residents in UAE face this contrast, it prompts reflection on India’s trajectory. The writer, a private equity investor, emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and secular values in both countries.

HYDERABAD: Syed Moosa Kaleem Al-Falahi, Chief Business and Investment Officer of the Islamic Bank of Afghanistan, has been awarded the prestigious Global Islamic Finance Award 2024 at the Global Islamic Finance Conference in Male, Maldives. The event, organized by the Maldivian government and Cambridge IFA, attracted notable Islamic finance leaders, including former Maldives President Mohamed Waheed Hassan and Finance Minister Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq.

Syed Moosa, a Hyderabad resident, was recognized for his significant contributions to Islamic banking, particularly in expanding the Islamic Bank of Afghanistan. His extensive career includes roles at Dubai Islamic Bank and other prominent institutions. Syed Moosa’s expertise in developing Islamic financial products and supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises was specifically highlighted. The award acknowledges his ongoing efforts to promote Islamic finance principles globally.

Syed Moosa Kaleem Al-Falahi Wins Global Islamic Finance Award 2024

AUTHOR: Islamic Voice

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