Amman, Jordan – April 2025 – The Ibn Battuta International Centre for Intercultural Studies (IBCIS), in collaboration with the Arab Thought Forum (ATF) Jordan, will host the highly anticipated 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference. The event is scheduled to take place in September 2025 in Amman, Jordan. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in joint efforts to strengthen intercultural dialogue, promote academic exchange, and explore the enduring legacy of Ibn Battuta’s remarkable journeys.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was recently signed by Dr. Sadiq Al-Faqih, Secretary-General of ATF, and Dr. Abbas Panakkal, Director of IBCIS. The agreement formalizes cooperation between the two institutions and sets the stage for a conference themed “Trade, Travel, Traditions, and Directions: Global Exchanges that Shaped the World.” The theme will examine the role of trade routes, travel, and cultural traditions in shaping global history and contemporary societies.
The conference aims to foster cross-cultural dialogue, highlight Ibn Battuta’s contributions to global exchange, and examine the long-term impact of Arab trade routes on today’s geopolitical dynamics. It will provide a distinguished platform for scholars and global thinkers to discuss the interconnectedness of trade, travel, tradition, and global development.
It is proudly announced that His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal, founder of the Arab Thought Forum, will serve as the official patron of IBCIS and the 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference. His patronage is expected to elevate the conference’s stature as a premier forum for intellectual exchange and cultural diplomacy. HRH will also deliver the opening address, reaffirming his commitment to advancing broader global understanding.
During a meeting related to the conference, Dr. Abbas Panakkal presented his book Musaliar King to Prince Hassan. His Royal Highness shared that he had read the book and expressed appreciation for its decolonial historiographical approach. In the discussion, Prince Hassan also offered valuable insights into the history of the Hashemite Kingdom, enriching the conference’s themes of cultural exchange and intellectual dialogue.
The conference will explore four main themes: the role of trade in shaping global connections; the impact of travel and exploration on world dynamics; the influence of traditions in cross-cultural exchange; and the lasting effects of historical exchanges on contemporary global development. These discussions will highlight the pivotal role of the Arab world in shaping global history during both the medieval and modern periods.
Jordan and the broader Arab region will be central to the conference, reflecting Ibn Battuta’s extensive travels across these lands. The Levant, the Arabian Peninsula, and North Africa historically served as key hubs for merchants, scholars, and travelers. The conference will underscore the crucial role of these regions in the evolution of trade, pilgrimage, and knowledge exchange.
The collaboration between IBCIS and ATF ensures a comprehensive and impactful event. IBCIS will lead the academic initiatives and international participation, while ATF will manage local logistics, media publications, and public relations. Both institutions are committed to ensuring the conference’s success and maximizing its academic and cultural impact.
As part of expanding international collaboration networks, the Yayasan Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Indonesia Cerdas (YPMIC) has also joined as a partner in organizing the 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference. YPMIC’s participation strengthens Indonesia’s representation in this global forum and reflects the foundation’s commitment to advancing intercultural dialogue and global education. YPMIC will actively encourage the participation of Indonesian academics and facilitate the exchange of ideas and collaborative initiatives between Asia and the Arab world.
The Arab Thought Forum (ATF) is a leading intellectual institution dedicated to strengthening intercultural dialogue, exchanging ideas, and supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of the Arab world and the global community. It serves as a platform for constructive discussions on global issues, bringing together diverse perspectives to foster mutual understanding and shared solutions.
The Ibn Battuta International Centre for Intercultural Studies (IBCIS) is committed to advancing intercultural understanding through research, dialogue, and educational programs. The Centre plays a vital role in highlighting the significance of both historical and contemporary cultural exchanges in shaping global societies.
The 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference promises to be a landmark event, offering valuable insights into the global exchanges that have shaped the world. With the patronage of HRH Prince Hassan bin Talal and the active participation of YPMIC, the conference is set to become a significant platform for cultural and intellectual dialogue, reinforcing the importance of global exchange in fostering international understanding and cooperation.
