UAE bans unlicenced digital platforms teaching holy Quran

ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates has prohibited unlicenced digital platforms from offering Quran-teaching services.

The new regulation mandates that any centre or individual wishing to teach the holy Quran must secure the necessary licence from the authorities.

On June 2, the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat issued an advisory to citizens and residents, emphasizing the risks posed by unlicenced digital platforms providing Quran instruction, according to a report in Khaleej Times.

The advisory underscores the importance of accurate and appropriate religious education to safeguard the younger generation.

Also read: Pakistan commends Danish Govt’s move to prohibit desecration of Holy Quran

The Islamic Affairs body stressed that many individuals offering Quran-teaching services online are unqualified and lack proper religious education credentials. This deficiency can result in incorrect teachings, misinterpretations of the holy text, and potential misunderstandings about Islamic principles, it said.

The authority has observed numerous unlicensed individuals conducting classes and attracting students with promotional advertisements. Parents are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious or unlicensed teaching activities to the relevant authorities to combat the proliferation of unqualified religious educators.

Engaging with unlicenced religious educators exposes individuals to severe legal consequences. State laws strictly prohibit unlicenced religious education activities, and violations carry significant penalties, said the advisory.

Penalties

Under UAE law, anyone teaching the Quran without a licence faces imprisonment for at least two months and a fine of up to Dh50,000, or one of these penalties. These penalties are enforced in addition to any more severe penalties stipulated by other laws.

Qualifications for Quran Teacher

To be licenced, individuals must meet the following conditions:

Be at least 21 years old

Have good conduct

Have no prior convictions for felonies or misdemeanors involving honor or trust, unless rehabilitated

Be medically fit for the role

Possess the necessary practical experience if managing a center

Have appropriate qualifications for teaching or managing

Pass a test and personal interview

Obtain approval from the competent authorities if not sponsored by the center where they will work.