The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance joint cooperation in sustainable development, Islamic philanthropy, and support for development initiatives with social and economic impact across various countries. The signing took place on Sunday, 16 Dhul Qa‘dah 1447 AH, corresponding to 3 May 2026 CE, at the Academy’s headquarters in Jeddah.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the Regional Bureau for Arab States (RBAS) of the United Nations Development Programme and And H.E. Prof. Koutoub Moustapha Sano, Secretary General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy.

This memorandum sets out a strategic framework for cooperation between the two parties to support initiatives that promote inclusive development, reinforce the principles of human solidarity, and advance sustainable solutions to development challenges, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030.

The Memorandum of Understanding seeks to strengthen knowledge exchange and expertise sharing, support joint initiatives in capacity-building, community empowerment, and Islamic philanthropy directed toward development, and explore innovative mechanisms for sustainable development financing.

Ms Nahid Hussein, UNDP Resident Representative in Saudi Arabia, stated: “This partnership reflects the importance of building bridges of cooperation between UNDP, the International Islamic Fiqh Academy, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to support early recovery, development, and comprehensive humanitarian solutions. UNDP believes that shared values and human solidarity form a strong foundation for achieving more inclusive and sustainable development.”

For his part, His Excellency Prof. Koutoub Moustapha Sano, Secretary General of the Academy, said: “This partnership comes within the framework of joint efforts to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between international and Islamic institutions, and to support development initiatives that focus on human well being and contribute to building a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

The meeting was attended by Mr Muhammad Al-Munzir Rida Al-Shawk, Director of the Cabinet, Protocol, and Legal Affairs; Ms Sarah Amjad Badewi, Supervisor of the Office of the Secretary-General; and Dr Alhagi Manta Drammeh, Head of the International Cooperation and External Relations Division at the Academy.