Sheikh Sudais Completes 42 Years as The Imam of Masjid al-Haram

MECCA — Sheikh Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, President of the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, led the Asr prayer at Masjid Al Haram on Monday, marking 42 years since his historic appointment as an imam of Islam’s holiest site.

The occasion also signaled his return to leading the afternoon prayer after a five-year hiatus, rekindling memories of his inaugural Asr prayer on 1st Shaban 1404 AH (May 22, 1984).

Sheikh Sudais, 64, last led the Asr prayer in 1440 AH (2019 CE), making Tuesday’s session his first in five years. The gap, attributed to his administrative responsibilities overseeing expansions and services at the Two Holy Mosques, made his return a deeply symbolic moment.

Appointed as an imam at just 22 years old, Sheikh Sudais became one of the youngest leaders in Masjid Al Haram’s history.

Over 42 Hijri years (41 Gregorian years), his resonant recitations have guided millions through Hajj pilgrimages, Ramadan Taraweeh prayers, and Friday sermons, earning him global acclaim.

In 2022, he was named President of the Two Holy Mosques’ affairs, spearheading projects like the Grand Mosque’s expansion and the introduction of AI-driven crowd management systems.

For now, though, the Muslim world pauses to celebrate a man whose voice has, for 42 years, been a constant in an ever-changing era.

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