Sheikh `Abdul-Majeed Subh, a prominent Azharite scholar, states: “It is not a bid`ah to make du`aa’ at the beginning of seminars or the like of meetings that gather Muslims and non-Muslims. Rather, it is sunnah and something commendable in Islam and one of its etiquettes in all circumstances that require du`aa’ and seeking Allah’s help even in the meetings including non-Muslims. It is also sunnah to conclude such meetings with reciting surat Al-`Asr and the last verses of surat As-Saffat. ‘Glorified be thy Lord, the Lord of Majesty, from that which they attribute (unto Him). And peace be unto those sent (to warn). And praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds!’ (As-Saffat 37: 180-182) May Allah guide you and us all to the right path.”