Egypt’s Grand Mufti Unveils AI Fatwa Conference Recommendations

Egypt’s Grand Mufti revealed key recommendations from the 10th International Fatwa Conference in Cairo on August 13, 2025. The event focused on training muftis to use artificial intelligence while upholding Islamic principles, drawing experts from over 80 countries under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s patronage.

This announcement highlights how religious leaders aim to blend traditional scholarship with modern technology. It addresses growing concerns about AI’s role in issuing fatwas, ensuring they remain accurate and ethical in a fast-changing world.

Conference Overview and Theme

The two-day conference, held from August 12 to 13, explored the theme “The Making of the Competent Mufti in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” Organizers gathered senior muftis, ministers, scholars, and tech experts to discuss strategies for integrating AI into religious rulings.

Participants emphasized the need for muftis to gain skills in both Shariah law and digital tools. This approach helps them tackle contemporary issues like ethical AI use in fatwa issuance, which has become crucial amid rapid tech advancements.

Discussions also touched on global trends, such as AI’s potential to mimic voices of scholars, raising risks of misinformation in religious contexts. The event built on Egypt’s ongoing efforts to lead in moderate Islamic discourse.

Egypt has hosted similar conferences before, but this one stood out for its focus on AI training programs. These initiatives aim to prepare muftis for challenges like fact-checking AI-generated content that might contradict Islamic teachings.

Key Recommendations Announced

The Grand Mufti outlined several recommendations to guide future fatwa practices. He stressed training programs that combine deep scholarly knowledge with advanced tech skills, ensuring muftis can use AI responsibly.

One major point was the call for ethical guidelines on AI in religious rulings. This includes designing AI systems that respect Islamic values and avoid undermining faith or sacred principles.

Delegates agreed on evolving religious sciences alongside technology. They highlighted the importance of muftis employing modern tools wisely while maintaining rigorous scholarship.

The recommendations also urged international cooperation to monitor global fatwa trends in the digital age. This involves creating specialized programs for young muftis, both in Egypt and abroad.

Participants expressed thanks to President El-Sisi for supporting such events. His patronage reflects Egypt’s commitment to strengthening religious institutions amid technological shifts.

Global Participation and Insights

Over 80 countries sent delegations, including Lebanon’s Grand Mufti and representatives from the UAE and Qatar. This diverse group exchanged ideas on AI’s benefits and dangers in Islamic jurisprudence.

For instance, sessions covered topics like implanting smart chips in humans and their ethical grounds under Shariah. Experts warned about AI fabricating lies or mimicking scholars’ voices, which could mislead communities.

The conference served as a platform for sharing success stories. Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta showcased its AI initiatives, positioning the country as a model for moderation and renewal in religious leadership.

Ministers and scholars from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East contributed to balanced discussions. They addressed gaps in current AI systems, such as providing answers that contradict Shariah principles on finance or faith issues.

One highlight was a workshop on opportunities and challenges of AI in Islamic legal findings. It underscored the need for fact-checked AI tools to support, not replace, human muftis.

Implications for AI in Religious Practices

These recommendations could shape how muftis worldwide approach AI. By focusing on ethical use, they aim to prevent misuse, like AI generating fake Quranic verses or unauthorized fatwas.

Egypt’s national AI strategy from 2024 aligns with this, promoting responsible innovation that respects human rights and religious values. The conference builds on that by offering specific guidelines for fatwa authorities.

Looking ahead, experts predict more training programs and collaborations. This might include AI ethics charters, similar to the Cairo Charter for Fatwa and Artificial Intelligence, which sets standards for tech in religious contexts.

The event ties into broader trends, such as AI’s role in Hajj campaigns or digital fatwa delivery. It encourages muftis to close gaps in AI knowledge, ensuring fatwas remain relevant and trustworthy.

Potential challenges include resistance from traditional scholars wary of technology. However, the recommendations promote a balanced view, seeing AI as a helpful tool rather than a threat.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While the conference was a success, it highlighted ongoing challenges. AI can spread misinformation quickly, as seen in recent cases where apps invented religious texts or mimicked scholars like Ibn Baz.

To counter this, recommendations include mandatory AI literacy in mufti training. This ensures scholars can verify information and use tech to enhance, not replace, their expertise.

Another issue is accessibility. Not all countries have resources for advanced AI training, so the conference called for global support and knowledge sharing.

In the future, events like this could lead to standardized AI guidelines for fatwas. Egypt plans to host more such gatherings, building on its role in digital religious renewal.

Experts believe these steps will help Muslim communities navigate the AI era with confidence. They provide practical solutions, like ethical frameworks, to maintain moderation and accuracy.

Here are some core challenges discussed:

• Risk of AI-generated misinformation in religious rulings.
• Need for fact-checking mechanisms in AI tools.
• Balancing tradition with technological adoption.
• Ensuring AI respects diverse cultural and religious boundaries.

These elements show a forward-thinking approach to blending faith and technology.

What do you think about using AI in religious practices? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and feel free to pass this article along to spark discussions among friends or on social media.