Amman, Jordan – April 2025 – The Ibn Battuta International Centre for Intercultural Studies (IBCIS), in collaboration with the Arab Thought Forum (ATF) Jordan, is set to host the highly anticipated 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference. Scheduled to take place in October 2025 in Amman, Jordan, this strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in the joint effort to strengthen intercultural dialogue, promote academic exchange, and explore the legacy of Ibn Battuta’s extraordinary 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. This MoU formalizes the collaboration and paves the way for the conference, which will revolve around the theme: “Trade, Travel, Tradition, and Trajectories: Global Exchanges That Shaped the World.” The theme aims to explore the role of trade routes, travel, and cultural traditions in shaping global history and contemporary society.
The conference seeks to foster intercultural dialogue, highlight Ibn Battuta’s contributions to global exchange, and examine the lasting impact of Arab trade routes on current geopolitical dynamics. It will also serve as a platform for global scholars and thinkers to discuss the interconnectedness of trade, travel, tradition, and global development.
It is with great pride that the organizers announce His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal, founder of the Arab Thought Forum, as the official patron of IBCIS and the 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference. His Royal Highness’s presence and support are expected to enhance the prestige of the event as a premier forum for intellectual exchange and cultural diplomacy. He will also deliver the opening address, reaffirming his commitment to the conference’s mission of advancing global understanding.
During a meeting in preparation for 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. The Prince also offered valuable insights into the history of the Hashemite Kingdom, further enriching the conference themes of cultural exchange and intellectual dialogue.
The conference will spotlight four major themes: the role of trade in shaping global connections, the impact of travel and exploration on world dynamics, the influence of tradition in intercultural exchange, and the enduring legacy of historical interactions on modern global development. These discussions will emphasize the crucial role of the Arab world in shaping global history during both the medieval and modern periods.
Jordan and the broader Arab region will take center stage in this conference, given Ibn Battuta’s extensive travels through the area. The Levant, Arabian Peninsula, and North Africa were key crossroads for merchants, scholars, and travelers. The conference will underscore the significance of these regions in the evolution of trade, pilgrimage, and knowledge exchange.
The partnership between IBCIS and ATF ensures a comprehensive and impactful event. IBCIS will lead the academic initiatives and promote international participation, while ATF will manage local logistics, media outreach, and public relations. Both institutions are committed to ensuring the conference’s success and maximizing its academic and cultural impact.
As part of expanding its global collaborative network, the Yayasan Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Indonesia Cerdas (YPMIC) – or the Foundation for Empowerment of Smart Indonesian Communities – has officially joined as a partner for the upcoming conference. YPMIC’s involvement not only strengthens Indonesia’s representation in this global forum but also reflects the foundation’s deep commitment to promoting intercultural education and global citizenship. YPMIC will actively support the participation of Indonesian academics and help foster collaborations between Asian and Arab institutions.
The Arab Thought Forum (ATF) is a leading intellectual organization focused on advancing intercultural dialogue, exchanging ideas, and supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of the Arab world and global society. ATF provides a platform for constructive discussions on global issues by bringing together diverse perspectives to foster understanding and collaborative solutions. More information is available at www.atf.org.jo.
The Ibn Battuta International Centre for Intercultural Studies (IBCIS) is dedicated to advancing cross-cultural understanding through research, dialogue, and educational programs. The center plays a pivotal role in highlighting the historical and contemporary importance of cultural exchange in shaping global society.
The 4th Ibn Battuta International Conference promises to be a historic event, offering valuable insights into the global exchanges that have shaped our world. With the support of His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal and the active partnership of YPMIC, the conference will serve as a vital platform for cultural and intellectual dialogue, reinforcing the significance of global exchange in fostering understanding and cooperation among nations.
