Signing of Cooperation Agreements to Strengthen Academic and Institutional Partnerships

Emirates Scholar Successfully Concludes the Second Edition of the International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance

• A comprehensive platform for promoting tolerance through science, art, and youth engagement
• 80 research abstracts and 40 academic papers reinforcing the role of research in fostering mutual understanding
• First-ever announcement of Arabic language inclusion in the Family Search Tree platform

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 25th February 2025, Under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies (ESCR) successfully concluded the second edition of the International Dialogue of Civilazations and Tolerance Conference. The event witnessed significant participation from academics, experts, religious leaders, and policymakers, attracting 3,200 participants from 112 countries.

The conference addressed key challenges to peaceful coexistence and explored ways to enhance intercultural dialogue through scientific and research-based approaches, with a strong focus on the role of youth in building a future based on tolerance and shared understanding. This aligns with the theme of this year’s edition: “Empowering Youth for a Tolerant Future.”

The conference was organised by The Emirates Scholar Center for Research & Studies, under the Emirates Foundation for Science and Research, in partnership with the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence and with support from the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, affiliated with the Department of Culture and Tourism.

Leadership’s Vision

Dr. Firas Habbal, President of ESRC and Vice Chairman of its Board of Trustees, emphasized that the conference aligns with the UAE leadership’s vision and follows the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in institutionalizing tolerance and positioning the UAE as a global model for coexistence.

He added:
“We firmly believe that scientific contributions are the foundation of progress. Research, knowledge, and dialogue play a critical role in shaping a world built on coexistence and understanding. Our mission is to foster intellectual exchange that transcends boundaries, cultures, and beliefs, as tolerance is not just a principle but a field of study requiring continuous exploration, meticulous documentation, and practical application.”

Enhancing Mutual Understanding

Dr. Habbal further stated that scientific and research contributions play a pivotal role in building bridges of dialogue and promoting mutual understanding among cultures.

The second edition of the conference witnessed a record-breaking participation, with over 3,200 attendees, marking a 40% increase compared to the previous year. Delegates represented 112 nationalities, 36 religious backgrounds, and spoke more than 10 languages. The event featured 80 research abstracts and 40 academic papers, emphasizing the role of academic research in fostering dialogue and tolerance.

Scientific Approach

Dr. Fawaz Habbal, the Secretary-General of the center and a member of its Board of Trustees and Conference Chairman, highlighted that the event provided a progressive vision for studying ideas scientifically and through youth-driven perspectives to ensure students receive accurate, research-based information.

A Reliable Academic Resource

He added that the conference serves as a trusted academic resource for students and researchers, promoting scientific research as a pillar for decision-making and future foresight. It also provides university students with opportunities to publish their research, particularly in the field of tolerance, which remains underrepresented in academic publishing compared to other scientific disciplines.

Key Recommendations

The conference concluded with 10 key recommendations, including:

1. Enhancing youth participation in interfaith and intercultural dialogue through dedicated platforms and programs.
2. Empowering women in global tolerance efforts and ensuring balanced representation in key events.
3. Leveraging artificial intelligence to counter hate speech and promote constructive dialogue.
4. Advancing academic collaboration through joint research projects between universities and think tanks.
5. Providing practical tools for cross-cultural communication via workshops and specialized training programs.
6. Expanding interfaith dialogue to address global challenges such as climate change and social justice.
7. Strengthening cultural diplomacy and encouraging local initiatives to promote tolerance.
8. Documenting and disseminating historical examples of tolerance to inspire contemporary societies.
9. Enhancing collaboration between religious leaders and policymakers to develop sustainable initiatives.

• Establishing a global network for tolerance to connect individuals and institutions in promoting mutual understanding and sharing best practices.

AI-Powered “Tolerance Platform” Launch

As part of the conference, the The Emirates Scholar Center for Research & Studies launched the “Tolerance Platform”, the first AI-driven digital initiative dedicated to sharing the UAE’s vision on dialogue and coexistence.