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Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa Website Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa Website

Biography

1st
Auschwitz visit

Senior Islamic delegation to visit Auschwitz, on the 75th anniversary of its liberation (Jan 2020)

30+
Interfaith Outreach

Countries visited as part of the MWL’s interfaith efforts

75+
Global Engagement

Countries engaged through interfaith and anti-extremist efforts

5
Humanitarian Missions

Countries visited so far this year to promote humanitarian missions

36
International Commendations

formal commendations received to date

1st
MWL–Vatican Agreement

of its kind agreement forged between MWL and the Vatican at a 2017 meeting with His Holiness Pope Francis, to advance interfaith cooperation

2
State Dept. Reports

Recognized in two U.S. State Department reports (2019 & 2020) for advancing moderation, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue.

3
Organizational Honors

Acknowledged by AJC, the American Sephardi Federation, and the Combat Anti-Semitism Movement for leadership and initiatives.

Details

His Excellency Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa is the Secretary General of the Muslim World League and a globally recognized advocate for moderate Islam. A distinguished scholar with advanced degrees in Comparative Islamic Jurisprudence and Judicial Studies from Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, he has authored influential works on law, human rights, and Islamic thought.

Dr. Al-Issa has been at the forefront of interfaith and intercultural dialogue, fostering cooperation among religious and political leaders worldwide. He has led historic initiatives that brought together diverse faith communities, including groundbreaking agreements with the Vatican, high-level interreligious conferences, and humanitarian missions across multiple continents. His leadership has earned international recognition from heads of state, religious figures, and academic institutions for advancing peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding.

Through his work with the Muslim World League and beyond, Dr. Al-Issa continues to play a pivotal role in countering extremism, promoting coexistence, and building bridges between civilizations.

Awards

Leadership of the Muslim World League

August

Dr. Mohammad Al-Issa becomes Secretary-General of the Muslim World League

Dr. Al-Issa assumed his current role as Secretary-General of the Muslim World League on August 9, 2016. In the same year, he became Chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars and a member of the Council of Senior Scholars in Saudi Arabia.

Secretary-General Chairman, IBMS Senior Scholars

Global engagement and scholarly outreach

As Secretary-General, Dr. Al-Issa has travelled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Africa and Asia, meeting with dignitaries and parliamentarians from the fields of justice, law and human rights, as well as major faith-based and community leaders. He has also delivered academic lectures and discussed scholarly dissertations at major universities within the Kingdom and abroad, particularly in Europe and the United States.

Global engagement Lectures & dialogues

September

High-level dialogue with the Holy See

To advance his vision of civilizational and cultural dialogue, Dr. Al-Issa visited the Vatican in September 2017 to meet Pope Francis and the late Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, Chairman of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. Those discussions led to an unprecedented partnership between the MWL and The Holy See, and paved the way for the most senior visit ever by a Vatican official to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in April 2018.

Interfaith partnership Dialogue

April

Most senior Vatican visit to Saudi Arabia

An outcome of the 2017 Vatican engagement, paving the way for unprecedented interreligious diplomacy.

Vatican–KSA Milestone visit

Healing and inclusion in Sri Lanka

In 2019, Dr. Al-Issa visited Sri Lanka to meet with Buddhist and Muslim religious leaders to promote healing and integration in the wake of the country's deadly Easter attacks. He received the Order of Peace from Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

Interfaith solidarity Order of Peace

Inclusive representation across MWL bodies

Under Dr. Al-Issa, the Muslim World League has expanded representation of various sects of Islam within the Muslim World League Supreme Council and other subsidiary bodies to ensure the inclusion of all Muslim communities around the world. He was elected by seventy Islamic figures from across the Islamic world, representing all Islamic schools of thought, to the Supreme Council of the League.

Inclusion Diversity

September 2019

First Paris agreement among Abrahamic leaders

He also orchestrated the first agreement between leaders of the Abrahamic religions in Paris, joining Jewish, Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox Christian leaders in an agreement committing to harmony and solidarity. This initiative built upon his work in bringing together the Abrahamic faiths in France, resulting in the “Paris Agreement for the Abrahamic Family for Solidarity and Peace,” which united Jewish, Catholic, Orthodox, and Islamic religious leaders.

Abrahamic accord (Paris) Solidarity & peace

January

Visit to Auschwitz

In January 2020, Dr. Al-Issa became the most senior Islamic leader to visit the German Nazi concentration and extermination camp.

Auschwitz remembrance Holocaust memory

Unprecedented cooperation with Russian Orthodox Church

Over the past two years, Dr. Al-Issa has signed several cooperation agreements with some of the largest Jewish institutions operating in the United States and globally, they focus on promoting common values, protecting religious sites of worship and building greater interfaith understanding. In 2020, Dr. Al-Issa finalized a cooperation agreement with the Russian Orthodox Church and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, in another interreligious initiative without precedent.

Interreligious cooperation Patriarch Kirill

June 2020

Global platforms against prejudice

Dr. Al-Issa joined German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the AJC Virtual Global Forum opening plenary in June 2020, joining in their call for dialogue and cooperation to create a better, more equal world free of anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and any other form of prejudice. Later that month, he joined Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg in a virtual symposium focused on fighting hate and discrimination.

AJC Global Forum Anti-hate symposium

November 2020

Research with UN University for Peace: Promote Peace, Human Rights and Civilized Dialogue

Throughout 2020, Dr. Al-Issa oversaw a comprehensive research project in partnership with the United Nations University for Peace, which culminated in a launch of the book “Promote Peace, Human Rights and Civilized Dialogue,” in November 2020. The research project and book included input from 32 prominent religious, political, academic and civil society leaders representing the vast cultural diversity on display around the world. The book outlines a model for achieving stronger international cooperation and uniting the global visions to address some of the world's greatest problems.

UNU for Peace Book launch

June

Declaration of Peace in Afghanistan

In June 2021, Dr. Al-Issa brokered a groundbreaking agreement between government ministers and senior scholars from Afghanistan and Pakistan. The “Declaration of Peace in Afghanistan” creates a roadmap for reconciliation in the decades-long conflict in Afghanistan.

Peace roadmap Afghanistan

March

Largest-ever Muslim–Evangelical gatherings in U.S. tour

Most recently, in March 2022, Dr. Al-Issa completed a seven-day visit to three U.S. states as part of an effort to strengthen relations between Muslims and other faith groups. As a part of the Global Faith Forum, Dr. Al-Issa was hosted by Pastor Bob Roberts and the Multi-Faith Neighbors Network, in Dallas, Texas. He later visited thriving evangelical churches in Kansas City, Missouri, and Glenarden, Maryland. The visit represented the largest-ever gathering of Muslims and Evangelicals. He has been chosen as a keynote speaker and exclusive representative of Islam at major international conferences and events.

Global Faith Forum Multi-Faith Neighbors

The Charter of Makkah

May

Historic charter unanimously endorsed by 1,200+ scholars

At the Makkah Conference led by Dr. Al-Issa, attendees representing every sect of Islam endorse the Charter of Makkah, a defining document of modern Islamic thought.

Makkah Conference 1,200 scholars

Vision and precedent

The Charter follows the precedent of the Charter of Medina, emphasizing that diversity is a basis for cooperation, not conflict, and calling for dialogue, understanding and joint action against injustice and oppression.

Charter of Medina Diversity & dialogue

Key provisions

Commits to combatting hate speech, violence, extremism and terrorism; advancing moderate Islam; protecting the environment and cultural traditions; and affirming national sovereignty alongside interfaith partnership.

Counter-extremism Interfaith partnership Environment Sovereignty

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Al-Issa has received numerous prestigious awards and honors for his contributions to interfaith dialogue, counter-extremism efforts, and humanitarian causes. His recognitions are chronologically listed as follows:

April 2017

Malaysia’s Highest Title “Dato Seri”

In April 2017, Dr. Al-Issa was awarded the Kingdom of Malaysia’s highest honorary title, “Dato’ Sri,” in recognition of his efforts to promote moderation, during a grand ceremony convened by the Sultan.

Special Recognition – Republic of Singapore

Special recognition for promoting moderate Islam.

Galileo International Award

Received the Galileo International Award from the Galileo Foundation in Florence, Italy.

Moderation Prize – Makkah Region

Awarded the Moderation Prize by the Governor of Makkah Region.

Honorary Doctorate – Russia’s Institute of Orientalism

Honorary doctorate from the Institute of Orientalism in the Russian Federation.

Supreme Republic Medal – Sri Lanka

Awarded by the President of Sri Lanka.

Grand Order of the State – Senegal

Received the Grand Order of the State from the President of Senegal.

“Children of Abraham” Award – Rimini Meeting

Received the “Children of Abraham” Award at Italy’s Rimini Meeting.

February 2019

Global Interfaith Peace Award – U.S.-Arab Relations Council

In February 2019, the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations presented its Global Interfaith Peace Award to His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa, in recognition of his distinguished efforts to promote peace and understanding among followers of different religions.

September 2019

Bernardins Medal for Peace Efforts

In September 2019, the French College of Bernardins awarded its Medal to His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa for His Excellency’s efforts in spreading peace and solidarity.

November 2019

Medal of Distinction – U.S.-Arab Relations Council

IIn November 2019, the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations awarded Dr. Al-Issa a medal, making him the first international expert to receive this distinction.

Combat Anti-Semitism Award (Inaugural Recipient)

Inaugural recipient of the Combat Anti-Semitism Award.

Honorary Doctorates

Honorary doctorates from Maulana Malik Ibrahim State Islamic University (Indonesia), University of Management and Technology – Lahore, and Alfa BK University – Belgrade.

May 2021

Golden Shield Award – ISESCO

Golden Shield Award from the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

July 2021

Honorary Doctorate – U.N. University for Peace

Honorary doctorate from the U.N. University for Peace.

August 2021

Prophet’s Hijra Award – Malaysia

Prophet’s Hijra Award from the King of Malaysia.

November 2021

Norwegian Bridge Builder Award

Awarded for building bridges between individuals, nations, and societies.

Honorary Doctorate in Law – Pattani University (Thailand)

Honorary doctorate in Law from Pattani University, Thailand.

Order of the Republic – Maldives

Order of the Republic from the President of Maldives.

Hilal-e-Pakistan (Crescent of Pakistan)

Bestowed by President Dr. Arif Alvi.

National Order of Merit – Mauritania

National Order of Merit from the President of Mauritania.

Honorary Medal – Conference of Religious Leaders (Kazakhstan)

Honorary Medal from the President of Kazakhstan.

Medal of the Ambassador of International Peace – The Gambia (U.N.-approved)

Medal of the Ambassador of International Peace, conferred by the President of The Gambia (U.N.-approved).

Honorary Doctorate – University of The Gambia

Honorary doctorate from the University of The Gambia.

International Award – Arakan Union Organization

Recognized for his support of the Rohingya people.

Honorary Doctorate in Political Science – University of Malaya

Honorary doctorate in Political Science from the University of Malaya, Malaysia.

May 2024

Key to the City of Alexandria – Highest Honor

In May 2024, His Excellency Dr. Al-Issa was presented with the Key to the City of Alexandria by Mr. Mohamed El-Sherif, Governor of Alexandria, during an official reception. This honor was bestowed in recognition of Dr. Al-Issa’s outstanding international contributions to interfaith cooperation and humanitarian relief. The Key to the City is regarded as the highest distinction awarded by Alexandria.

Key to the City of Sarajevo & Republic’s Highest Award

Received the Key to the City of Sarajevo and the Republic’s highest award (first Islamic figure to receive this honor).

Honorary Doctorate – Beder University (Albania)

Honorary doctorate from Beder University, Albania.

Augest 2024

Presidential Award – Republic of Malawi

In August 2024, Dr. Al-Issa was awarded the Presidential Award by His Excellency President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera of the Republic of Malawi. This esteemed honor was bestowed during an official reception at the Presidential Palace in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, in recognition of Dr. Al-Issa’s contributions to fostering societal harmony, stability, and sustainable development across the African continent.

September 2024

Harvard University Lecture – “Law and Religion”

On 28 September 2024, the first Islamic religious leader to be invited to lecture at Harvard University delivered a lecture on the topic of “Law and Religion,” attended by a large gathering of policymakers and senior international legal experts.

December 2024

Honorary Postdoctoral Fellowship in Law – University of Bologna

In December 2024, the Italian State University of Bologna awarded His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa the Honorary Postdoctoral Fellowship in Law, in recognition of his significant contributions to advancing the goals outlined in the preamble of the United Nations Charter, which embodies the global aspiration for peace. His efforts include mitigating conflicts between cultures, promoting mutual understanding among societies, and building bridges between diverse communities—grounded in respect for differences and cooperation based on shared values.

February 2025

Highest Medal of Honor – Republic of Guinea-Bissau

In February 2025, Dr. Al-Issa was awarded the highest medal of honor by the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. The award was presented by His Excellency Mr. Umaro Sissoco Embaló, President of Guinea-Bissau, at the Presidential Palace. Dr. Al-Issa received this honor in recognition of his efforts in religious diplomacy, promoting civilizational peace and fostering international cooperation.

September 2025

Order of Dostyk – Republic of Kazakhstan

In September 2025, Dr. Al-Issa received the “Order of Dostyk,” the highest award of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It was awarded by H.E. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, at the Presidential Palace in the capital, Astana, in recognition of his distinguished efforts in strengthening friendship among peoples and his significant contributions to promoting interfaith partnerships and advancing cooperation, understanding, and religious harmony.

September 2025

Honorary Doctorate & Professorship – Eurasian National University

In September 2025, Dr. Al-Issa was awarded an honorary doctorate and an honorary professorship by Eurasian National University, in Astana.