The President of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, Yusuf al-Qaradawi, blasted Arab countries and, in particular, Qatar and Saudi Arabia for celebrating Christmas. He accused them of ignorance and stupidity:
Eid al-Adha came and went by without being accompanied by any celebration in European countries or even in Muslim-owned shops. But look at the difference now with Christmas, and we’re still 2 weeks away from it. Also, what is the meaning of that Christmas tree when Christ was not even born in winter?
Al-Qaradawi named and shamed Qatar for its Christmas celebrations: “Did you see all the celebrations that are taking place in Douha’s streets and commercial centers for the birth of Christ – Peace be upon him – or Christmas, as they call it?”
He also commented: “In Qatar, Saudi Arabia and elsewhere, Muslims do not celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad – Peace Be Upon Him – because that is considered sinful (bia’a) and that day is not even an official holiday. So how can we celebrate Christmas when we don’t even celebrate our Prophet’s birthday? It is a sin (haram), shameful and indecent. It also shows stupidity in the way we deal with others, and ignorance of Islam’s commandments”.