In the United Arab Emirates, the landscape for Quranic education has undergone significant regulation, particularly regarding the establishment and operation of private Quranic memorization centers.
These regulations, enforced by governmental authorities, aim to ensure the orderly dissemination of religious teachings and practices throughout the country.
In response to a perceived need for oversight, the Federal National Council enacted legislation in 2017 and 2018 to govern religious education activities. These laws mandate that religious classes and gatherings, including Quran memorizing sessions, can only take place with proper approval and licensing. Additionally, conducting religious lectures and activities, such as Zakat collection and book distribution, in mosques without appropriate authorization is prohibited.
To supplement government-run centers, the UAE has allowed for the establishment of private Quranic memorization centers. However, stringent guidelines and procedures must be adhered to for their operation. The Federal Law No. 1 of 2018 outlines specific actions deemed illegal within these private centers. Violators face a graduated series of penalties, including license suspension and revocation, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Prohibited activities within private centers include the unauthorized collection of donations, conducting religious classes without approval, and printing and distributing religious materials without proper authorization. Moreover, centers must be utilized exclusively for their intended purposes, such as Quranic education and religious instruction.
Individuals seeking to teach or manage private Islamic centers must meet various criteria, including age requirements, practical experience, and proof of good conduct. Prospective center owners must also satisfy eligibility criteria, including citizenship, good conduct, and financial solvency.
Opening and operating private centers necessitates compliance with a comprehensive set of guidelines, encompassing licensing procedures, facility standards, and gender segregation requirements. Additionally, centers must furnish students with the necessary equipment and facilities to facilitate their learning experience effectively.
In summary, the UAE's regulatory framework for Quranic education reflects a concerted effort to ensure the orderly dissemination of religious knowledge while upholding standards of governance and accountability. By establishing clear guidelines and procedures for private Quran memorization centers, the UAE seeks to foster an environment conducive to religious education and practice.
