New York, NY, August 18, 2003 …The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today welcomed reports that a major purveyor of anti-Semitism in the Arab world is being shut down by the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).  The Zayed Center for Coordination and Follow Up, based in Abu Dhabi, provides a platform for extremist speakers to promote virulently anti-Jewish and anti-Israel views, while also hosting lectures by Western heads of state and diplomats.  The Center is named for the President of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and was established in 1999 as the official think tank of the Arab League.

"We welcome reports that the Zayed Center has been shut down by UAE officials," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.  "The UAE, through its sponsorship and funding, has lent legitimacy to the parade of anti-Semitic, anti-American and anti-Israel extremists and conspiracy theories hosted by the Zayed Center.  We hope the Arab League will follow the lead of Emirates officials and not resuscitate this discredited think tank."

In addition to hosting recognized extremists and anti-Semites, the Center regularly published anti-Semitic and conspiracy theory literature and promulgated anti-Americanism and anti-Semitism through its speakers and official publications.  A record of anti-Semitic reports, statements and speakers sponsored by the Zayed Center is available in this ADL Backgrounder