Dubai will organize a conference focusing on the needs and issues of Muslim converts in the UAE. Dubai-based Kalemah Islamic Center announced that the event is open to Muslims and non-Muslims.

The venue for the Jan. 17-18 meeting, first of its kind in the UAE, will be the Cultural and Scientific Center.

Muslim converts are a rapidly growing community, with more than 1,500 embracing Islam every year in the UAE, according to official statistics.

“The summit is an attempt to raise awareness, educate and provide direction to new Muslims and those born into the faith alike. It also aims to provide Islamic organizations and preachers with the training and tools necessary to develop effective strategies and systems to cater to the needs of new Muslims,” organizers explained.

The event will feature speeches and sessions in English, Mandarin and Tagalog on a wide range of topics. Notable local and international Islamic scholars and preachers will discuss different topics.

During Ramadan, Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum had received converts from various countries and exchanged greetings with them.

Kalemah expects over 2,000 participants at the conference, apart from over 10,000 viewers online through live streaming online.