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Some here have pointed out that Dubai has advanced a model of Islam that is tolerant, forward-thinking, and — at least compared to other Islamic countries — quite free.
And they have asked: why not have Dubai be the model for the future governance of Gaza and the Palestinian Territories? For example, from our own JosephCox:
Another more impressive example is the UAE. The UAE was formed from seven of (effectively) ten Gulf Emirates. Their reality is indicative. The seven members of the UAE haven’t suffered from terrorism and don’t seem to be exporting it either. The leader of Dubai has projected a very different concept of what Islam means. Yes, locals and men are definitely dominant in his society and, yes, there is slavery. But day-to-day life for many people — including much of the 85% of the population who are not citizens — is open and far more free than Islamists in Europe and the US would be likely to accept. Bahrain has followed a similar path — encouraged by its military sponsor, Saudi Arabia. ... What are we providing that can give people meaning and greater purpose? So long as we have no decent answer to this question, Islamic radicalism will flourish within our societies. To push back, we need to follow the path of the UAE. As strange as it may seem, this totalitarian dictatorship offers an answer to arguably the greatest threats of the modern era.
What ho?! A report this morning suggests that the UAE and Saudi Arabia have come to the same conclusion.
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have reportedly told the President of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas that he must Resign as President and Dissolve the current Government in order to Appoint a Saudi and UAE-Approved Government, or else they will Halt all further Financial Aid to the Palestinian Territories.
Wowsers. There may be hope!
Discussion (55)
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“and, yes, there is slavery.”
Ummm….
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Baby steps. Let's not get too nit picky.
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Remember Iraq? We can't expect a society to be enlightened overnight. The UAE, while far from perfect, presents an option that doesn't demand unrealistic governance.
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I once spend a few days with a member of the royal family of Oman ins Muscat. He said to me, "yes we still have some slaves. But we treat them like members of the family!"
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Considering some of the families I’ve seen…😬😬😬
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