Karbala: The Custodian of the Holy Abbasid Shrine, Sayyid Ahmad al-Safi, has initiated preparations for the inaugural International Al-Kaff Conference for Arabic Calligraphy and Ornamentation, aligning its commencement with the anniversary of the death of Lady Umm al-Banin (peace be upon her).

According to National Iraqi News Agency, this directive emerged from al-Safi’s meeting with Jawad al-Hasnawi, supervisor of the Al-Kaff Center for Arabic Calligraphy, and Muhammad Falih, the center’s director. During the meeting, al-Safi was briefed on the center’s artistic vision and the organizational strategies for the conference, which is set to occur from the 13th to the 16th of Jumada al-Thani 1448 AH, corresponding to November 24th to 27th, 2026.

In the discussions, al-Safi underscored the esteemed role of Arabic calligraphy in maintaining the visual essence of Islamic culture. He instructed that thorough preparations be made for this significant artistic and cultural gathering. The conference is expected to feature a variety of cultural and scientific activities that contribute to intellectual and cultural discourse. Additionally, a competition and a specialized journal focusing on calligraphy are set to be unveiled.

Al-Safi highlighted the strategic use of cultural events to celebrate the milestones of authentic Arabic calligraphy, viewing it as a vital component of cultural identity. He announced that the official opening of the conference would coincide with the anniversary of Lady Umm al-Banin’s passing, marking the 13th of Jumada al-Thani.

He further emphasized the importance of blending scientific and organizational dimensions and the careful formation of specialized committees. These efforts aim to ensure that the conference not only honors the rich legacy of Arabic calligraphy but also upholds the international prestige of the Holy Abbasid Shrine in this domain.