The Islamic civilization has had a profound influence on the Western world, especially during the Middle Ages. Islamic scholars made significant contributions to fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and medicine, which were later transmitted to Europe through trade and contact. The works of Islamic philosophers, such as Ibn Rushd (Averroes) and Ibn Sina (Avicenna), also had a lasting impact on European thought, influencing figures such as Thomas Aquinas and influencing the development of European philosophy.
Islamic architecture, too, had an important influence on Western architecture. During the Islamic Golden Age, architects developed innovative techniques, such as the pointed arch and the horseshoe arch, which were later used in Gothic architecture in Europe. The Alhambra, one of the most famous examples of Islamic architecture, has been a source of inspiration for architects and designers in the Western world for centuries.
Today, Arab and Muslim countries continue to shape the world. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), for instance, has become a hub of innovation, with initiatives such as Dubai's Smart City and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office's Tech Hub attracting talent and investment from around the world. The UAE has also become a leader in space exploration, with the successful launch of the Hope Mars Mission in 2020. Moreover, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries are also investing heavily in renewable energy, with Saudi Arabia planning to invest $200 billion in solar energy over the next decade.
In the world of literature, Arab and Muslim writers are making their mark. Algerian writer Yasmina Khadra has gained international acclaim for his works, which explore themes such as identity, politics, and culture. Khadra's novels, such as "The Swallows of Kabul" and "The Attack," have been translated into more than 40 languages and have won numerous awards. Similarly, Egyptian writer Alaa Al-Aswany's novels, such as "The Yacoubian Building" and "Chicago," have gained widespread critical acclaim and have been translated into more than 30 languages. Moroccan writer Laila Lalami and Kuwaiti author Saud Alsanousi have also gained international recognition for their novels, which tackle issues such as immigration, globalization, and social justice. Their work is not only valuable for its cultural merit, but also necessary for progress in the Arab world, as literature serves as a mirror reflecting the realities and complexities of societies.
In the realm of artistic expression, Arab and Muslim artists are making their mark. In the music industry, artists such as Lebanese-born Mika, who has sold over 10 million records worldwide, and Egyptian-born Rami Malek, who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury in the biopic "Bohemian Rhapsody," have gained international acclaim. In the world of visual arts, Palestinian multimedia artist Emily Jacir has been awarded numerous prizes for her work, which explores issues of displacement, identity, and cultural memory.
The influence of Islamic civilization on the Western world has been profound and enduring. Arab and Muslim countries continue to play an important role in shaping today's era, contributing to fields such as technology, renewable energy, literature, and arts. As we look to the future, it is clear that the legacy of the Islamic civilization will continue to inspire and influence people around the world.