Course Overview

  • Synopsis

    This course explores the rise, expansion and decline of the Umayyad dynasty, the first hereditary dynasty in Islamic history. Students will examine the transfer of power from Muʿāwiyah (ra) to Yazīd, the expansion of Muslim rule from the Atlantic to Sind, the reforms of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz, and the political and social tensions that contributed to the dynasty’s eventual downfall.

  • Aims

    The course aims to develop understanding of the establishment and development of Umayyad rule, examine the transition to hereditary kingship and its consequences, explore the geographical expansion of the Islamic empire, consider the governance of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz, and investigate the political and social discontent that contributed to the decline and fall of the Umayyads.

  • Entry Requirements

    This course is suitable for anyone interested in Islamic history and the development of early Muslim political institutions. No prior knowledge of the Umayyad period is required.

Certification

  • Following successful completion of your course, you’ll be awarded a Lote Tree College certificate - a testament to your dedication, consistent attendance, active participation, and commitment to seeking sacred knowledge.

Course Structure

Study Mode Online
Course Duration 4 Lessons
Start Date 29 October 2026
End Date 19 November 2026
Day Thursdays
Time 13:00 - 14:00 | Calgary
15:00 - 16:00 | New York
19:00 - 20:00 | London (GMT)
23:00 - 00:00 | Dubai
00:30 - 01:30 | Mumbai
03:00 - 04:00 | Singapore
Cost Free 
Instructor Ustadh Abu Ayyub
Textbook In-house resources will be shared

All lesson recordings available on-demand!

This 4 lesson course examines the rise, expansion and decline of the Umayyad dynasty, the first dynasty in Islam. It explores the transition to hereditary kingship under Muʿāwiyah (ra), the succession of Yazīd, and the turbulent events that shaped the early Umayyad period.

The course traces the expansion of Umayyad rule from the Atlantic to Sind, examining the growth of the Islamic empire across its western and eastern territories. It also considers the leadership of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz and his efforts to renew governance in accordance with the Sunnah.

Finally, the course investigates the political and social tensions that weakened Umayyad rule, including the treatment of non-Arabs, growing discontent and the revolution in the East. Through these key developments, students will gain an understanding of the major events, challenges and transformations that shaped the first hereditary dynasty in Islamic history.

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Topics Covered



Lesson 1

Hereditary Kingship - From Father to Son

The transfer of power under Muʿāwiyah (ra) and the succession of Yazīd.

The reign of Yazīd and the events associated with this turbulent period.

Lesson 2

The Age of Expansion - From the Atlantic to Sind

Umayyad expansion into the West.

Umayyad expansion into the East.

Lesson 3

A Return to the Sunnah - The Age of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz

The leadership and governance of ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz.

His association with a renewed emphasis on the Sunnah.

Lesson 4

The Rumblings of Discontent - The Decline and Fall of the Umayyads

Umayyad treatment of non-Arabs.

The revolution in the East and growing opposition to Umayyad rule.

Learning Outcomes

Learn traditional Islamic knowledge in a thorough, practical and transforming way

  • Describe the establishment of Umayyad rule and the transition towards hereditary kingship, including the succession of Yazīd.

  • Explain the major phases of Umayyad expansion in the western and eastern regions of the Islamic world.

  • Identify key political and social tensions during the Umayyad period, including the treatment of non-Arabs and the revolution in the East.

  • Analyse the principal factors that contributed to the decline and eventual fall of the Umayyad dynasty.

  • Apply historical insights to understand the lasting impact of early modern Islamic empires on contemporary Muslim societies and global history.

Course Fees

Our courses are free!

(Minimum £10 to cover admin fees)

Join our mission to keep them free and become a means for sacred knowledge to be readily accessible, professionally delivered (by qualified scholars) for the Muslim community - globally!  

Become a supporter by donating as little as £10pm - together we can make it happen inshā'aAllāh.

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Ustadh Abu Ayyub

Senior Instructor

Ustadh Abu Ayyub is an expert history guide, educator, and consultant on Islamic history based in Istanbul, Turkey. Trained in the sacred sciences, he is also a historian, author, and passionate teacher whose dynamic approach brings the rich tapestry of Islamic history to life. Originally from the USA, his journey to explore the living legacy of the Muslim world has taken him across the globe for over a decade. His work weaves together academic depth, field experience, and spiritual insight. He teaches Islamic history at Lote Tree College, where he shares his deep knowledge and unique perspective with students from around the world.
Ustadh Abu Ayyub Marulanda

FAQs

  • How long is this course?

    This course is based on 4 lessons (1 hour each).

  • What do I need to access this course?

    All you need is a reliable internet connection and access to a personal computer, tablet or phone – our online courses are responsive and designed to work across all platforms. We also recommend that you study the courses somewhere quiet so that you can concentrate and get the most out of the rich, helpful information they contain.

  • Do I require additional resources?

    No. Lesson slides will be shared.

  • Will I get a qualification or ijazah?

    If you complete the course, you will receive a certificate of completion.

  • I'm not in the UK, does that matter?

    No, absolutely not – in fact that’s one of the main reasons we developed our online courses, so that more people from around the world could benefit from our training.

  • I'm having trouble logging in, what can I do?

    If you are having problems logging in, it may be that you need to delete your browser cookies and/or empty your cache. If you’re still having trouble after having done that, then please contact us.

Testimonials

Amer Nazri | Animation Director

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

❝ The classes at Lote Tree are wholesome as it is inspiring, and whether it is fiqh, seerah or tasawwuf, you leave the sessions nourished spiritually and intellectually, and eager to learn more. ❞

Kamran Ahmed | Finance Director

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

❝ Amazing institute that really leads the way in bringing people together! Run and managed by an amazing team. ❞

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