Meet GU-Q faculty member making Islamic research more accessible at Al Mujadilah
The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: The Al Mujadilah Centre and Mosque for Women opened its doors in January 2024 with an ambitious vision to be a brave and dynamic place fo...
Doha, Qatar: The Al Mujadilah Centre and Mosque for Women opened its doors in January 2024 with an ambitious vision to be a brave and dynamic place for Muslim women to learn, connect, and engage in public debate. Now, just six months later, thanks to the visionary leadership of Executive Director Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui, the centre is already achieving its goals.
Founded by H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, the centre aims to strengthen Islamic identity among Muslim women of all ages and backgrounds and to enrich contemporary Islamic discourse. Integral to executing the project is Dr. Siddiqui, an Associate Professor of Islamic Studies and Theology at Georgetown University in Qatar.
Her vast knowledge of Islamic law and experience at the forefront of other centres of learning have been instrumental in bringing H H Sheikha Moza’s vision to life.
The centre honours the rich history of Muslim women as leaders and thinkers, focusing on research projects in Islamic texts, law, and ethics; Muslim women’s lives; and Muslim women’s health and well-being.
Even the name Al Mujadilah, inspired by Surat Al Mujadilah (She who discourses), reflects the influence of Khawla bint Tha’labah, a companion of the Prophet (PBUH) who successfully advocated for the protection of women under Islamic law. “When I was first approached about Al Mujadilah, I saw it as an exceptional opportunity to create a unique space for learning and discussion,” says Dr. Siddiqui. The role allowed her to bridge her academic life and her deep understanding of the profound gap that remains in the study of Muslim women’s lives, past and present.
