Saudi Arabia Mourns Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh: Funeral Scheduled in Riyadh Today
Saudi Arabia mourns the death of Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, who passed away in September 2025. The funeral is scheduled to take place today, with thousands of people, including top Saudi officials, expected to attend. His passing marks the end of an era, as Sheikh Abdulaziz served as the Kingdom’s top religious authority for decades.
شیخ عبدالعزیز آل الشیخ سعودی عرب کے سب سے بڑے مذہبی رہنما اور مفتی اعظم تھے۔ ان کا انتقال پوری مسلم دنیا کے لیے ایک بڑا نقصان ہے۔ ان کی قیادت میں کئی اہم مذہبی فتاویٰ اور فیصلے سامنے آئے جنہوں نے سعودی عرب کے اسلامی نظام کو تشکیل دیا۔ آج ان کی نماز جنازہ میں کثیر تعداد میں عوام اور حکومتی شخصیات شریک ہوں گی۔
Legacy of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh served as Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti since 1999. He was recognized for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence and his role in issuing fatwas on religious, social, and national matters. His leadership guided the Council of Senior Scholars and shaped religious discourse in the Kingdom.
For more than two decades, he became a trusted voice on Islamic rulings, leading prayers, and delivering sermons that resonated with millions across the Muslim world.
Funeral Details and National Mourning
The funeral prayers for Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh are scheduled in Riyadh today, with dignitaries, scholars, and citizens paying their final respects. Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the Muslim Ummah.
The government has announced a period of official mourning, and flags across the Kingdom are being lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect.
Contributions to Islamic Jurisprudence
Sheikh Abdulaziz played a key role in guiding the Saudi people through religious reforms, fatwas, and educational initiatives. His rulings covered a wide range of subjects including worship, social conduct, and issues of modern life.
He also represented Saudi Arabia on international religious platforms, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites. His voice was considered authoritative in matters concerning the global Muslim community.
Global Reactions
Muslim leaders and scholars worldwide have expressed their condolences over the loss. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and several prominent religious institutions have issued statements recognizing his lifetime of service to Islam.
Conclusion
The passing of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh is not just a loss for Saudi Arabia but for the entire Muslim world. His decades-long service as the Grand Mufti will be remembered for shaping religious thought and guiding millions of Muslims. As Saudi Arabia prepares to bid him farewell today, his legacy of scholarship, guidance, and leadership will continue to inspire generations to come.
