Riyadh: Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh, the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, passed away on September 23 at the age of 82. Appointed in 1999, he served as the Kingdom’s highest religious authority for over two decades, shaping its religious discourse and interpreting Sharia law. His death marks the end of an era in Saudi Arabia’s religious leadership.
Born on November 30, 1940, in Mecca, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh came from the Al ash-Sheikh family, known for its long history of Islamic scholarship. He memorized the Quran at an early age and studied under prominent scholars before becoming a professor at Imam Muhammad ibn Saud University. In 1999, he succeeded Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Baz as Grand Mufti.
Throughout his tenure, he issued numerous fatwas, guided the Kingdom on matters of Islamic jurisprudence, and emphasized unity within the Muslim community. He also played a role in interfaith dialogue and was respected across the Gulf region for his efforts to preserve Islamic traditions while addressing contemporary challenges.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended condolences to his family and the Muslim world. The Royal Court expressed the nation’s grief, with funeral prayers scheduled at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh.
Condolences poured in from leaders across the Islamic world, including Egypt’s Grand Mufti, Dr. Shawky Allam, underscoring Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh’s influence and legacy.
