The International Centre for Advanced Islamic Research (ICAIR) was established by The World Federation of the KSIMC in 2022 with a mission to address the ethical and intellectual challenges confronting the global Shi’a community. Combining the depth of traditional seminary studies with the innovative approaches of contemporary academic research, ICAIR works with a range of partners in pursuit of this mission.
At its core, the centre is committed to pioneering research in the realm of Islamic studies, making its findings accessible through various avenues, including publications, lectures, courses, and notably, its bi-annual journal, al-Qalam (‘the Pen’). Located in the heart of London, ICAIR’s primary facilities house an auditorium, dedicated workspaces, classrooms, and a curated library. Beyond its physical presence, the ICAIR digital platform serves as an expansive gateway, detailing its multifaceted programs, events, and academic endeavours. With a deep-rooted commitment to fostering community growth and promoting vibrant discourses, ICAIR embodies a profound dedication to advancing the study of Shi’i Islam.
‘By the grace of Allah SWT and with the blessings of our Marj’a, ICAIR is operationally active at the new WF House at Harefield, London. ICAIR now has both a Head for the Institute as well as a governing body and academic board comprising of leading scholars both from the Hawza and academia. The focus on both contemporary research and engaging with the wider community makes ICAIR unique in creating a platform to address challenging issues we face today and a forum to discuss the undiscussable in the presence of the best scholars of our time. I encourage the community to actively engage with ICAIR.’
– Alhaj Safder Jaffer, The WF President
The opening ceremony of the International Centre for Advanced Islamic Research (ICAIR) was held on the 9th June 2023, at The WF House, Harefield, UK. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests and scholars, with a notable address delivered by His Eminence Sayyid Murtadha Al Kashmiri, the representative of His Eminence Sayyid Ali Huseini al-Sistani (d).
The opening ceremony of the International Centre for Advanced Islamic Research (ICAIR) was held on the 9th June 2023, at The WF House, Harefield, UK. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests and scholars, with a notable address delivered by His Eminence Sayyid Murtadha Al Kashmiri, the representative of His Eminence Sayyid Ali Huseini al-Sistani (d).
‘The inauguration of our new International Centre for Advanced Islamic Research (ICAIR) marks a significant milestone in our unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and the advancement of Islamic scholarship based on both traditional and modern methods.
This institution represents a pivotal hub for rigorous academic inquiry and a testament to our commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic principles and their relevance in the contemporary global context.’
– Shaykh Dr. Murtadha Alidina – Head of Islamic Education Department
Marking a significant moment in the intellectual landscape, the International Centre for Advanced Islamic Research (ICAIR) convened a thought-provoking conference on the 12th of August 2023, at their Research Centre at The WF House in Harefield, London, UK. The inaugural session, led by the esteemed Sayyid Muneer al-Khabbaz, encapsulated the spirit of scholarly inquiry.
Sayyid Muneer al-Khabbaz is a distinguished figure known for his profound contributions to the realm of Islamic thought and scholarship. With a deep-rooted commitment to promoting understanding and enlightenment, Sayyid Muneer has consistently shared his insights and knowledge through various platforms. His dynamic engagement in addressing complex theological and social matters reflects his dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue.
The event’s interactive essence was amplified by a dynamic Q&A discussion, fostering inclusivity as both brothers and sisters actively participated and enriched the discourse.
The WF President, Alhaj Safder Jaffer, would like to congratulate Shaykh Alexander Khaleeli on his new role as Head of International Centre for Advanced Islamic Research (ICAIR).
Alexander Khaleeli is an accomplished scholar in the field of Islamic research. Having pursued the study of Islam in both traditional and academic settings, and with extensive experience in the fields of academic research, scholarly publishing, and cross-cultural consultancy, he brings a wealth of expertise to his new role as Head of ICAIR.
As well as Undergraduate and Masters degrees in Islamic Studies at the Islamic College for Advanced Studies, London, Alexander studied higher-level Arabic language courses at the University of Damascus and pursued advanced Hawza studies in the traditional seminaries of Qom. Following his return to the UK, he embarked on a PhD in Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, for which he won a highly competitive AHRC scholarship.
During this time, Alexander has also taught undergraduate and graduate level classes at the University of Roehampton, the Islamic College, and the University of Exeter, as well as teaching traditional subjects in the Hawza. This combination of academic and traditional learning means he understands the importance of bridging the divide between classical Islamic knowledge and modern academic approaches.
In addition to his involvement in scholarship, Alexander has over a decade of professional experience running a successful cross-cultural consultancy business, through which he worked with a diverse range of clients, including the academic publishers BRILL and the International Committee of the Red Cross. This experience gave him a unique insight into the intersection of scholarship and real-world concerns, reinforcing his commitment to advancing knowledge.
Alexander is also a leading translator of texts from Persian and Arabic into English. His work includes both classical and modern texts, notably Shahid al-Thani’s Munyat al-Murid and Fayd Kashani’s Tafsir al-Asfa. Most recently, he has translated and written introductions for several volumes of ‘Allamah Tabataba’i’s groundbreaking Qur’an commentary Tafsir al-Mizan. These translations have made seminal Islamic works accessible to a broader English-speaking audience.
‘The Islamic seminaries serve like the repositories of clean water (kurr water), where souls can be cleansed. God willing, ICAIR will serve as a channel to connect this clean water to the hearts of people globally.‘
– Alhaj Arifali Hirji, The WF Secretary General
