Saudi Arabia Mourns the Passing of Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh
2025 | Religious Affairs & Saudi Arabia
Official Announcement and Funeral Arrangements
The Royal Court of Saudi Arabia issued an official statement confirming the passing of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. The statement described him as "a great scholar who contributed significant efforts in serving knowledge, Islam, and Muslims."
The flag of Saudi Arabia flies at half-mast following the announcement of the Grand Mufti's passing.
In accordance with royal directives, funeral prayers were held at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh following Asr prayers. King Salman bin Abdulaziz also directed that absentee prayers be performed in the Grand Mosque in Mecca, the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, and all mosques across the Kingdom.
A Life of Scholarly Leadership
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, born in 1943, came from a distinguished lineage as a descendant of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahhab, the prominent religious reformer. His appointment as Grand Mufti in 1999 followed the passing of his predecessor, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Baz.
35 Years
Longest-serving preacher at Arafat in Islamic history (1982-2015)
26 Years
Tenure as Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia (1999-2025)
3 Monarchs
Served under Kings Fahd, Abdullah, and Salman during his leadership
4 Key Positions
Held simultaneous leadership roles in Saudi religious establishment
Throughout his tenure, Sheikh Abdulaziz was known for his moderate scholarly approach and his commitment to maintaining the traditional Islamic values while engaging with contemporary issues facing the Muslim world.
Key Leadership Positions Held
As Grand Mufti, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh occupied several of the most influential religious positions in Saudi Arabia simultaneously, reflecting his esteemed status within the Islamic scholarly community.
| Position | Organization | Tenure | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Mufti | Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | 1999-2025 | Highest religious authority in the Kingdom |
| President | Council of Senior Scholars | 1999-2025 | Leading body of Islamic scholars in Saudi Arabia |
| President | General Presidency for Scholarly Research and Ifta | 1999-2025 | Oversight of official religious edicts and research |
| Chairman | Supreme Council of the Muslim World League | 1999-2025 | International Islamic organization based in Mecca |
These positions placed Sheikh Abdulaziz at the center of religious authority in Saudi Arabia, with influence extending across the Muslim world through his role in the Muslim World League.
Historic Role as Preacher at Arafat
One of Sheikh Abdulaziz's most distinguished roles was serving as the preacher at the Namira Mosque in Arafat during the Hajj season, a position he held for an unprecedented 35 consecutive years from 1982 to 2015.
Significance of the Arafat Preacher Role
- Pinnacle of Hajj: The sermon at Arafat is delivered on the most important day of the Hajj pilgrimage
- Global Audience: Sermon broadcast to millions of Muslims worldwide in multiple languages
- Historical Record: Sheikh Abdulaziz's 35-year tenure is the longest in Islamic history
- Religious Authority: The position signifies recognition as a leading religious voice in the Muslim world
- Continuity: Provided consistent religious guidance during a period of significant global change
This role placed him at the heart of one of Islam's most significant annual gatherings, where millions of pilgrims gather on the Day of Arafah. His sermons were carefully watched for guidance on contemporary issues facing the Muslim community worldwide.
Timeline of a Distinguished Career
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh's journey from student to Grand Mufti represents a lifetime dedicated to Islamic scholarship and leadership.
Born in Riyadh into the Al Al-Sheikh family, descendants of Mohammed ibn Abdul-Wahhab
Studied under prominent scholars including Sheikh Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh
Began his 35-year tenure as preacher at Namira Mosque in Arafat during Hajj
Appointed Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia following the death of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Baz
Concluded his historic tenure as preacher at Arafat after 35 years of service
Passed away after 26 years as Grand Mufti, leaving a legacy of religious leadership
Leadership Legacy and Scholarly Contributions
Throughout his tenure, Sheikh Abdulaziz was known for his moderate approach and his ability to navigate complex religious issues facing contemporary Muslim societies.
Moderate Religious Guidance
Sheikh Abdulaziz was recognized for his balanced approach to religious rulings, maintaining traditional Islamic principles while addressing modern challenges.
Educational Development
He played a key role in developing Saudi Arabia's religious education system and supporting Islamic universities and research institutions.
International Islamic Relations
Through his role in the Muslim World League, he fostered relationships with Muslim communities worldwide and promoted moderate Islamic discourse.
Religious Stability
His long tenure provided continuity in religious leadership during a period of significant social and economic transformation in Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion: An End of an Era in Islamic Leadership
The passing of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in Saudi religious leadership. His 26-year tenure as Grand Mufti spanned three monarchs and witnessed profound changes in Saudi society and the broader Muslim world.
As a descendant of Mohammed ibn Abdul-Wahhab, Sheikh Abdulaziz represented a direct connection to the religious foundations of the Saudi state. His historic 35-year service as preacher at Arafat established him as a consistent voice of guidance for Muslims worldwide during times of rapid global change.
The widespread mourning across Saudi Arabia and the Islamic world reflects the deep respect for a scholar who dedicated his life to serving Islam through knowledge, moderation, and steadfast leadership. His legacy will continue to influence religious discourse in Saudi Arabia and beyond for generations to come.