About SZIC

Brief History

Shaikh Zayed Islamic Centres across Pakistan were established through the vision of His Highness Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (Late), former President of the UAE, to strengthen the enduring bond between Pakistan and the UAE. The Centres were founded on a unique vision — combining Qur'anic teachings and Arabic Studies with Computer Science and other modern disciplines, equipping young Muslims with both religious knowledge and the contemporary skills essential for the progress of the Ummah. Three Centres were established in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar, and handed over in 1985 to the University of the Punjab, University of Karachi, and University of Peshawar respectively, with the Government of Pakistan assuming full financial and administrative responsibility while preserving each university's academic autonomy. Shaikh Zayed Islamic Centre, Peshawar Campus began functioning in 1988 and has since grown into a reputed and meritorious seat of learning, with graduates awarded degrees by the University of Peshawar.

Key Facts

Founded By

His Highness Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
Established

1985 — handed over to Pakistani universities
Peshawar Campus

Functioning since 1988
Degrees Awarded By

University of Peshawar
Other Centres

Lahore & Karachi

Our Vision

"To combine Qur'anic teachings and Arabic Studies with Computer Science and other modern disciplines — equipping the young generation with Islamic teaching while training them simultaneously in modern science and technology."

Our Mission

Dedicated to furthering Islamic Studies and Arabic language at Graduate and Post-Graduate levels, with high-quality research in Islamic Studies and allied subjects.

Offering job-oriented education by integrating Islamic knowledge with science and technology in B.A (Hons) and M.A level studies.

Producing research scholars through M.Phil leading to Ph.D programmes.

All degrees and diplomas awarded by the University of Peshawar.

Undertaking research projects on disciplines related to the contemporary Muslim world.

Maintaining liaison with the Muslim and Western world.

Organizing regular lectures, seminars, symposiums, and conferences on relevant Islamic topics and current issues of the Muslim World.

Prof. Dr. Johar Ali

Vice Chancellor

Message from the Vice Chancellor

Shaikh Zayed Islamic Centre holds a distinguished place at the University of Peshawar, standing as both an architectural landmark and a symbol of our enduring ties with the UAE. Named in honour of His Highness Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Centre embodies his vision of promoting Islamic teachings through knowledge and excellence. As Chairman, BoG, it is my sincere aspiration to see the Centre continue to grow advancing academic and research excellence while developing programs that bridge Islamic scholarship with contemporary needs. In an age shaped by rapid scientific and technological progress, the timeless values of Islam justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life remain vital in addressing the challenges faced by the Muslim Ummah today. I am pleased to see the Centre embrace the digital age through this website, extending its mission to a wider audience. I wish Shaikh Zayed Islamic Centre continued success in its noble endeavours.

Prof. Dr. Rashid Ahmad

Director

Message from the Director

Shaikh Zayed Islamic Centre occupies a unique place at the University of Peshawar blending a pro-Islamic environment with a modern academic spirit. Alongside traditional Islamic subjects such as Fiqh, Hadith, Tafseer, and Islamic History, the Centre offers contemporary disciplines including Economics, Computer Science, English Literature, and Mathematics at the graduation level, while also facilitating Madrassah students in joining mainstream university education. As Director, I take great pride in the Centre's growth from a mere 80 students to over 600, and from a single BA (Hons) programme to BS Computer Science, MA in Qur'anic Studies, M.Phil leading to Ph.D, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Islamic Banking. The Centre offers a research-oriented environment, modern labs, a spacious library, a dedicated hostel, and a Masjid with its corridors echoing Tilawat-e-Qur'an and the pursuit of knowledge. Our research journal, Al-Idah, reflects the Centre's inclusive and moderate voice within Islamic scholarship. Backed by a dedicated and professional faculty, our mission remains clear: to equip our students with the knowledge, values, and skills needed to serve the Muslim Ummah with distinction.