Prof Abdullah Saeed

Professor Saeed is the Sultan of Oman Professor of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Melbourne.  He is also the Director of the National Centre of Excellence for Islamic Studies and Asia Institute at the University of Melbourne.

Professor Saeed is an active researcher, focusing on one of the most important issues in Islamic thought: the negotiation of text and context, ijtihad and interpretation. He is a strong advocate of reform of Islamic thought and is frequently asked to present at events both nationally and internationally. He also participates in training courses on Islamic issues to community leaders and government agencies in Australia and abroad. Of particular interest, given the current climate, is the promotion of inter-religious initiatives.  He regularly engages with the Muslim, Christian and Jewish communities at national and international symposia to enhance community understandings of Islam, Islamic thought and Muslim societies.