AJC & Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies Announce New Partnership to Advance Research in Religious Studies and Intercultural Dialogue
Abu Dhabi – 11 June 2026
On the sidelines of the 3rd International Dialogue of Civilizations and Tolerance Conference 2026, held in Abu Dhabi from 3–5 June, American Jewish Committee (AJC), the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people, and Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies announced a new formal partnership to bolster dialogue among civilizations and cooperation throughout the Middle East in pursuit of regional stability and prosperity.
Implemented through AJC’s Center for a New Middle East and AJC Abu Dhabi: The Sidney Lerner Center for Arab-Jewish Understanding, the new partnership will leverage Emirates Scholar Center’s academic expertise and AJC’s longstanding relationships across the region, built over 70 years of engagement. AJC is the only American Jewish organization with a permanent presence in the Gulf.
At a pivotal moment for the region, defined as much by uncertainty as possibility, the partnership is driven by the organizations’ shared dedication to a future defined by interconnectedness and prosperity, rather than uncertainty and war.
“The foundational vision of Emirates Scholar Center reflects the deeply rooted commitment of UAE leadership to promote mutual understanding and respect between peoples in diverse societies – a commitment that grounds AJC’s full-time presence, and confidence in this country,” said AJC Chief Policy and Political Affairs Officer H.E. Jason Isaacson. “We are honored to partner with the Center.”
“We are delighted to embark on this strategic partnership with the American Jewish Committee (AJC), and guided by the UAE leadership’s commitment to mutual respect, Emirates Scholar Center is dedicated to utilizing evidence-based insights to promote understanding. We believe that through rigorous research and open dialogue, we can build a more harmonious and prosperous future for the next generations”. Dr. Fawaz Nadeem Habbal, Director General, Board of Trustees Member of Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies.
The memorandum of understanding provides for joint conferences, summits, seminars, and workshops; the publication of joint reports; and the convening of professional and academic training programs and roundtables for researchers, students, and working professionals focused on interreligious and education advocacy.
