
Al Qasimia University opens applications for two master's degrees
These programmes are a realisation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Founder of Al Qasimia University. The move seeks to empower graduates and researchers worldwide to pursue advanced studies and contribute to the development of knowledge in their respective fields.
Arabic language and literature for native and non-native speakers
The Master's in Arabic Language and Literature, offered by the College of Arts and Humanities, is designed to develop outstanding academic capabilities, particularly among non-native speakers. The programme combines an in-depth exploration of linguistic and literary heritage with modern research methodologies, all within a structured and interactive academic environment. It consists of 33 credit hours divided into core and elective courses. Students may select a track in either language or literature, and the thesis is to be aligned with their chosen path.
Specialised training in Islamic jurisprudence
The Master's in Fiqh and its Fundamentals, available through the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, aims to provide a solid grounding in Islamic legal sciences using a rigorous and structured academic framework. The curriculum includes advanced studies in the objectives of Sharia, contemporary legal issues, analogical deduction, contract theory, personal status law, and Islamic criminal jurisprudence. Students of all nationalities are welcome. The programme concludes with a scholarly thesis defence, equipping graduates for roles in academia, legal consultation, and judiciary services.
Admission requirements ensure academic quality
Applicants must hold a recognised bachelor's degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 'Good' or 3.0 out of 4. Conditional admission may be granted to those who fall slightly below this requirement, as per university regulations. Two academic references are also mandatory.
Accredited and endorsed by UAE's education authority
Professor Dr Awad Al-Khalaf, Chancellor of Al Qasimia University, affirmed that these programmes mark a strategic advancement in the university's commitment to academic and research excellence. He emphasised the importance of cultivating a new generation of researchers who uphold the values of the Arabic language and Islamic scholarship, and who play a meaningful role in community development worldwide.
He also confirmed that both master's degrees have received accreditation from the Commission for Academic Accreditation at the UAE's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Application now open
Al Qasimia University has called on those interested in enrolling in either of the two programmes to submit their applications via the university's official website. The application deadline is set for 29 June.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Gulf Today
21 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Sultan, 'the man who brings cultures together'
The Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre (DSQC) has revisited a significant milestone in the academic journey of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who was awarded an honorary doctorate by Portugal's University of Coimbra in October 2018. The recognition came in appreciation of Sheikh Sultan's lifelong contributions to history, literature, and cultural research. His extensive research has shed light on major historical facts and the development of human societies. The university described His Highness as 'the man who brings cultures together.' Established in 1290, the University of Coimbra is the oldest university in Portugal and among the oldest in Europe. It is a leading academic and research institution and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013. The honorary doctorate is its highest distinction, conferred on individuals who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in cultural, literary, or scientific fields. Throughout its history, the university has bestowed this honour upon just 190 distinguished figures from Portugal and around the world, including current Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres and the former President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker. During the award ceremony, His Highness commended the university's leadership for promoting cultural exchange and strengthening ties between nations.


The National
4 days ago
- The National
'Majlis': Arabic word for sitting room is rooted in the traditions of the Gulf
While it refers to a sitting room, the majlis is about much more than furniture and floor plans. Stemming from the trilateral letters jeem, lam and seen, and derived from jalasa (to sit), our Arabic word of the week literally means 'a place of sitting'. Over time, the physical form of the majlis changed, but the core function remained: a space to gather, discuss, reflect, seal bonds and even heal wounds. One of the earliest uses of the term can be found among the Bedouin, where the majlis served as the beating heart of each community. It was a space where poetry was recited, grievances heard and disputes resolved. The tribal elder would preside over the gathering, with family members extending hospitality and welcoming those who came seeking guidance, judgment or social connection. With urbanisation, the majlis evolved in form but not in function. In Gulf homes today, it remains a central feature – a formal sitting room typically reserved for receiving visitors, often gender-segregated, and designed for both comfort and ceremony. Typically adorned with a thick carpet and low cushions, the space is furnished with ornate coffee pots, incense burners and dates set aside specifically for guests. In addition to private homes, there are also communal majalis (the plural of majlis) that serve as local gathering spaces for weddings, condolences and community meetings. Many are named after the suburbs they serve, such as Majlis Al Bateen or Majlis Baniyas. The term is backed by some institutional weightage: the UAE's Federal National Council, a consultative parliamentary body, is commonly referred to as Al Majlis, while Saudi Arabia's Majlis ash-Shura serves a similar advisory function. These bodies reflect the original spirit of the majlis as a site of counsel and collective decision-making. The majlis has also made its way into local television, often serving as the setting for talk shows. On Qatar's sports broadcasting network Al Kass, for example, football pundits sometimes hold post-match discussions in a studio styled as a majlis. But as vibrant as the exchanges on offer, the majlis is also a space for listening. Arabic hospitality is known for its unhurried pace, in part because it places value on attentiveness and presence. Events are rarely rushed, and occasions and gatherings are often advertised not by exact time, but from one prayer time to the next. The purpose is to provide a calm atmosphere that encourages perspective. This is perhaps why the majlis is inscribed by Unesco as part of the intangible cultural heritage of the Arab world. Its purpose serves as a reminder that a cohesive society is built on dialogue that fosters connection and tolerance.


UAE Moments
6 days ago
- UAE Moments
Divorce in the UAE for Expats: Legal Process, Costs & Special Rules by Nationality
Divorce in the UAE for Expats: Full Guide 1. Introduction Divorce in the UAE can be a complex process—particularly for expatriates—due to the coexistence of Sharia (Islamic family law) and civil personal‑status laws. This guide walks you through the legal procedure, costs, timelines, and special rules based on religion or nationality. All paths begin with clarity—clarity on official governmental guidance, legal rights, and practical expectations. 2. Applicable Laws: Sharia vs. Civil Divorce Muslim Couples Muslim residents in the UAE must apply Sharia-based divorce laws under Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 ('Personal Affairs Law') and the Family Guidance Department rules. Divorce begins with a conciliation attempt, where a mediator tries to reconcile the couple. If reconciliation fails, a referral letter allows the case to proceed to court. Courts comprise Sharia courts in each emirate. After conciliation, cases move through multiple levels: Court of First Instance, Court of Cessation (appeals), and Enforcement Court. Non‑Muslim Couples Expats who are non-Muslim may choose civil divorce under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 (effective Feb 1, 2023), which allows civil marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance outside Sharia. Non-Muslims who prefer can instead opt for their home country's divorce laws to govern their proceedings, subject to UAE judicial approval and federal Article 1 of Law No. 28 of 2005. 3. Step‑by‑Step Divorce Process for Expats A. Filing & Conciliation One spouse registers a divorce request at the Family Guidance Department at the judicial department in the emirate. A conciliator attempts resolution. It may take up to 60 days. If reconciliation fails, a referral letter is issued. The letter remains valid for three months. The case then proceeds to court. B. Court Proceedings Court of First Instance: Legal representation is recommended; proceedings in Arabic, interpreter may be required. This stage addresses divorce, alimony, child custody, asset distribution, etc. Court of Cessation (Appeals): No new evidence is allowed, but procedural review is permitted. Enforcement Court: Issues final judgment and ensures implementation. Non-compliance can carry penalties. C. Divorce Certificate & Attestation After judgment, a divorce certificate is issued. Fees to register the case and issue the certificate are around AED 500, plus attestation by Ministry of Justice, MOFA and foreign consulate (up to ~AED 1,200). No reconciliation is possible after final certificate; remarriage is required to restore a marital relationship. 4. Timeline & Costs Uncontested, amicable divorce: 2–3 months; contested divorce: 6–12 months. Costs: Filing: AED 500 Attestation: up to AED 1,200 Legal fees: AED 8,000–25,000 for amicable; AED 20,000–50,000+ for contested cases involving significant assets Translation of documents: AED 80 per document (approx.) Court filing fees (alternative sources): AED 2,000–3,000 + lawyer fees AED 10,000–50,000+. In summary: Total estimated cost: AED 10,000–30,000 for straightforward divorce; up to AED 50,000 or more if contested or complex. 5. Financial & Custody Considerations Alimony & Financial Claims Under civil divorce for non‑Muslims, no-fault divorce applies—no need to prove harm or blame. A divorced woman can claim alimony based on factors such as duration of marriage, age, financial position, contribution to divorce, and role as mother. For Muslim couples, alimony is determined under Sharia principles, often linked to khul' where a woman relinquishes her mahr to end the marriage Wikipedia. Child Custody & Guardianship Sharia courts prioritize the mother for custody (physical care) up to certain ages (typically 13 for girls, 11 for boys). The father retains guardianship (legal decisions and financial responsibility). Under civil personal status for non‑Muslims, custody and inheritance rules are defined by Decree‑Law 41/2022 and offer modern mechanisms to manage joint custody etc. Visa & Residency Status Contrary to common belief, a divorced wife does not automatically lose residency visa. She may apply for an independent visa via employment or company formation during a grace period. 6. Nationality & Religion‑Specific Rules Indian Expats Indian residents may choose to file for divorce in India, under conditions set by Indian jurisdiction (e.g. place of marriage, last joint residence, spouse's hometown). Alternatively, they may proceed under UAE civil or Sharia law, depending on religion and preference. Other Nationalities / Religions Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, etc. (non-Muslims) can use UAE civil family courts in Abu Dhabi or Dubai to opt for personal status law based on their home country or civil family law as defined under Decree‑Law 41/2022. Pre‑2023, non-Muslim expats defaulted to Sharia law unless permitted otherwise—but recent reform allows wider choice. Muslims All Muslim divorces must follow Sharia courts process, regardless of nationality. Islamic rules apply to alimony, inheritance, khul', etc. 7. Official Government Resources UAE Government Portal – Divorce Information page: outlines legal grounds, procedures for both Muslim and non-Muslim couples. UAE Family Guidance Department (Judicial Dept websites by emirate): for conciliation appointments and case filing. Dubai Courts / Abu Dhabi Judicial Dept: court systems and enforcement procedures. Ministry of Justice & Ministry of Foreign Affairs: required for attestation of divorce certificates. 8. Exceptions & Special Considerations Expats must evaluate whether to opt into UAE personal status law or home country law early in proceedings—this affects financial claims, inheritance, and custody outcomes. In Abu Dhabi, civil family courts for non-Muslims were established in November 2021. They allow more flexible procedures and civil divorce options under Abu Dhabi's Law No. 14/2021. Appeals must be filed within 28 days of judgment; clerical errors may extend deadlines slightly. Contested divorces involving assets across borders may require expert valuation and financial evidence in court. UAE courts may not enforce foreign settlements unless registered locally. 9. Conclusion & Practical Tips Start with Family Guidance Department in your emirate to open your record and conciliation process. Prepare all translated and attested documents: marriage certificate, passports, IDs, salary statements, bank records, children's birth certificates. Decide early whether to opt for civil or Sharia process, and if civil, whether to apply UAE or home country law. Secure legal representation especially if the case is contested, involves assets or children—expected legal fees AED 15,000–50,000+. Timeline estimates: amicable divorce 2–3 months; contested divorce up to 12 months. Understand custody and alimony rules based on your chosen law framework. Ensure visa and residency status —seek advice immediately post-divorce to avoid lapses. By navigating the nuances of religion, nationality, and choice of legal framework, expatriates in the UAE can manage divorce proceedings effectively. Whether opting for a civil path under modern legal reforms or Sharia law for Muslim couples, it's essential to work with experienced representation and follow official procedures to protect your rights. If you'd like assistance crafting a timeline checklist or template document list, I'd be happy to help further.