Building Bridges Symposium 2024

On Thursday, November 14th, Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education hosted the Building Bridges Symposium 2024, bringing together academics, students, and community members for a rich exploration of the Middle East’s histories, cultures, and faiths. This year’s theme, “Discover the Middle East: Histories, Cultures, and Faiths,” highlighted the region’s historical significance and cultural diversity while fostering dialogue and understanding.

An Inspiring Line-Up of Keynote Speakers

The symposium featured three distinguished academics whose expertise offered profound insights into various facets of the Middle East:

• Professor Mario I Aguilar, Professor of Religion and Politics and Director of the Centre for the Study of Religion and Politics at the University of St Andrews, opened the keynote sessions with a compelling talk on “Pope Francis, his visits to the Middle East, and Interfaith Dialogue.” Professor Aguilar highlighted Pope Francis’s efforts in bridging interfaith divides and promoting peace in the region.
• Dr Kholoud Al Ajarma, Alwaleed Lecturer in the Globalised Muslim World and Deputy Director of the Alwaleed Centre at the University of Edinburgh, delivered an enlightening presentation titled “Palestine as a Pilgrimage Centre: Sacred Spaces and Crossroads of Faith.” Dr Al Ajarma’s talk explored how Palestine serves as a meeting point for diverse faiths and cultures, emphasizing its spiritual and historical significance.
• Dr Anne Fitzpatrick, Associate Professor in Near & Middle Eastern Studies and Director of Al-Maktoum Centre for Middle Eastern Studies at Trinity College Dublin, concluded the keynote series with “The Impact of Ancient Greek Writers on European Perceptions of the Middle East.” Dr Fitzpatrick examined how ancient Greek literature has shaped Western understanding of the Middle East over centuries, offering a unique historical perspective.

Cultural Activities and Middle Eastern Hospitality

The symposium went beyond academia, creating an immersive cultural experience for attendees. Highlights included:

• Live Arabic calligraphy demonstrations, showcasing the elegance and intricacy of this ancient art form.
• Henna artistry, giving attendees a chance to partake in this traditional practice.
• Traditional Arabic tea and coffee, alongside a delicious Middle Eastern lunch, which allowed guests to experience the region’s renowned hospitality.

A Platform for Dialogue and Understanding

The event concluded with an engaging panel discussion, where the keynote speakers came together to explore the intersections of faith, culture, and history in the Middle East. This interactive session allowed attendees to pose questions and deepen their understanding of the region’s complexities and contributions to global heritage.

Looking Ahead

The Building Bridges Symposium is a cornerstone of Al-Maktoum College’s mission to promote cross-cultural dialogue and learning. This year’s event underscored the importance of understanding and collaboration among diverse communities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our speakers, participants, and everyone who contributed to the success of this event. For those who missed it, we invite you to join us at next year’s symposium or explore our other events and academic programmes.

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