UAE President appoints Dr Sabaa Salem Al Kaabi as Secretary‑General of Council for Fatwa
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a Federal Decree naming Dr Sabaa Salem Mohammed Salem Al Kaabi as Secretary‑General of the UAE Council for Fatwa.
Federal decree names new head of UAE Council for Fatwa
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a Federal Decree appointing Dr Sabaa Salem Mohammed Salem Al Kaabi as Secretary‑General of the UAE Council for Fatwa.
Dr Al Kaabi had been serving as acting secretary‑general of the council and as director of its Fatwa Competencies Department prior to the appointment. The WAM statement notes his extensive involvement with the council and with the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
He holds a doctorate in Islamic jurisprudence and contemporary societal issues from Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, together with a master’s degree specialising in the characteristics of Islamic legal discourse. The announcement also records a breadth of experience in issuing fatwas, preaching and academic work.
The Federal Decree confirms Dr Al Kaabi’s permanent leadership role at the council, following his period as acting secretary‑general. The UAE Council for Fatwa is a federal body whose work includes the issuance of religious legal opinions and guidance; the appointment will place Dr Al Kaabi at the centre of those activities at national level.
Dr Al Kaabi’s previous role as director of the Fatwa Competencies Department indicates a background in developing the council’s technical and scholarly capabilities. The WAM release states he holds several positions across both the Council for Fatwa and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, reflecting an established presence in the UAE’s religious and academic institutions.
The appointment by Presidential decree underscores the federal significance of the post. As Secretary‑General, Dr Al Kaabi will occupy a senior administrative and scholarly office within the UAE’s framework for religious guidance and fatwa issuance, contributing to the development and coordination of the council’s work.
The Federal Decree was issued in Abu Dhabi on 13 September 2026.
Source: WAM