Based in London, the Institute (AKU-ISMC) aims to strengthen research and teaching about the heritage of Muslim societies, with specific attention to the challenges these societies face in contemporary settings.

AKU-ISMC provides a multifaceted approach to the study of Muslim civilizations – within a framework of world cultures and through the humanities and social sciences – allowing for a wider analytical and comparative perspective. This approach is reflected in a post-graduate master’s programme, professional programmes and through quality research and publications. It is reinforced by a unique bibliographical project, the Muslim Civilizations Abstracts.

The Institute engages in collaborative initiatives across the globe and has attracted students from Armenia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Pakistan, Palestine, South Africa, Syria, Tajikistan and Tunisia.​