Saudi Arabia has appointed Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan al-Fawzan as its new grand mufti, the kingdom’s highest religious authority. King Salman issued a royal decree on October 22, 2025, naming the 90-year-old scholar to the role, following the death of the previous grand mufti last month.
Who Is Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan al-Fawzan?
Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan al-Fawzan was born in 1933 in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. He lost his father early in life and began studying the Quran under a local imam.
Over the years, he built a strong reputation as a religious scholar. He joined the Council of Senior Scholars in 1986 and has written many books on Islamic teachings.
Sheikh Saleh gained fame through his radio show Noor ala al-Darb, where he answered questions on faith and daily life. He also appeared on television, sharing his views with a wide audience.
His work focuses on strict interpretations of Islam. This has made him a key figure in Saudi religious circles for decades.
Details of the Royal Appointment
The appointment came through a royal order from King Salman bin Abdulaziz. It was based on a suggestion from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Along with being grand mufti, Sheikh Saleh now serves as chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars. He also leads the General Presidency for Scholarly Research and Ifta.
This move fills the gap left by Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh, who died in September 2025. The previous mufti held the post for over two decades.
Saudi officials praised the choice, calling Sheikh Saleh a respected voice in Islamic scholarship. The decree took effect right away, marking a quick change in leadership.
Controversial Views and Past Statements
Sheikh Saleh has drawn attention for some of his strong opinions. In 2016, he issued a fatwa against the game Pokemon Go, saying it promoted gambling.
He has spoken out against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, especially their attacks on Saudi sites. His views on Shia Muslims have sparked debate, with some calling them harsh.
In a 2003 quote, he linked slavery to parts of Islamic history and jihad, which means a personal struggle in faith. Critics in the West have pointed to these as examples of extreme views.
Despite this, his supporters see him as a guardian of traditional values. These statements often spread on social media, reaching global audiences.
Here are some key fatwas linked to Sheikh Saleh:
- Ban on Pokemon Go for encouraging chance-based play.
- Warnings against mixing with groups seen as straying from Sunni teachings.
- Calls to protect holy sites from threats like missile attacks.
Impact on Saudi Arabia’s Religious Landscape
Saudi Arabia hosts Mecca and Medina, the holiest sites in Islam. The grand mufti’s words carry weight around the world because of this.
Under Crown Prince Mohammed, the kingdom has pushed for changes like more women’s rights and entertainment options. Yet, naming an ultraconservative like Sheikh Saleh shows a balance with tradition.
Experts say this could signal a return to stricter religious tones. It comes amid efforts to modernize while keeping strong ties to Islamic roots.
The role involves giving advice on laws and social issues. Sheikh Saleh’s views might shape debates on topics like technology and foreign relations.
Global Reactions and Future Outlook
News of the appointment spread fast on social media and international outlets. Many in the Muslim world welcomed it as a nod to experienced leadership.
Some observers worry about tensions with Shia-majority countries like Iran. Others note the irony with Saudi investments in gaming, given his past fatwa on Pokemon Go.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Saleh’s term could influence fatwas on current issues like AI and social media. His age brings questions about how long he will serve.
This table outlines recent grand muftis in Saudi Arabia:
| Name | Tenure Start | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh | 1999 | Served until death in 2025; focused on unity and anti-extremism. |
| Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan al-Fawzan | 2025 | Known for conservative views; also heads senior scholars council. |
| Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Baz | 1993 | Predecessor; influential in global Islamic thought. |
The kingdom continues to navigate between progress and tradition. This appointment highlights that ongoing journey.
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