Key Takeaways
- Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh died on September 23, 2025.
- Served as Grand Mufti since 1999 and delivered Hajj sermon for 36 consecutive years.
- Led Council of Senior Religious Scholars and Permanent Committee for Fatwas.
Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh, the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia and head of the Council of Senior Religious Scholars, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 82.
The senior Islamic scholar had served as the Kingdom’s highest religious authority since his appointment in 1999 following the death of his predecessor, Sheikh Abdul Aziz ibn Baz.
Born on November 30, 1940, Sheikh Al-Sheikh was best known for his role as the official preacher for Hajj ceremonies from 1402H to 1436H (approximately 1981-2015), delivering the annual Hajj sermon at Masjid Namirah in Arafat for 36 consecutive years.
His sermons reached millions of pilgrims during his tenure, establishing him as a central figure in modern Islamic scholarship.
As Grand Mufti, he presided over the Council of Senior Religious Scholars and its Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Issuing Fatwas, shaping religious discourse throughout the Muslim world.
His leadership spanned a period of significant global change, during which he maintained the Kingdom’s traditional scholarly traditions while addressing contemporary challenges.
The passing of Sheikh Al-Sheikh marks the end of an era in Saudi religious leadership, particularly noted for his unwavering commitment to Islamic scholarship and guidance.
Funeral
Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh’s funeral prayer offered at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh following Asr on September 23, 2025.
Absentee funeral prayers also held at Mecca’s Grand Mosque (Masjid al Haram), Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an Nabawi) in Medina, and mosques across Kingdom after Asr today, Tuesday 23 Sept 2025.
Worshipers hold absentee funeral prayer for Sheikh Abdul Aziz at Quba Mosque after Asr Tuesday.
Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al ash-Sheikh performed Hajj for Muslim scholars unable to go, including Ibn Hazm, an-Nawawi, Ibn Abd al-Barr, Ibn Rajab, Al-Mundhiri.
Sheikh Abdulaziz grew up orphaned, lost his father at just eight years old.
He memorized Quran as a youth with Sheikh Muhammad bin Sinan, studied Sharia under former Grand Mufti Sheikh Muhammad bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh. Lost sight in twenties but kept studying.
Aftermath
Following the passing of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, Sheikh Dr. Saleh Bin Humaid was appointed as the new Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia. Sheikh Humaid brings decades of religious scholarship and leadership experience.
His scholarly background and dedication to Islamic jurisprudence are expected to guide the country’s religious discourse in the coming years, ensuring stability and unity amidst evolving global challenges.
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