Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah al-Sheikh, Saudi Arabia’s top religious leader and grand mufti, passed away on September 23, 2025, at the age of 84 in Riyadh. His death marks the end of a long era for the kingdom’s Islamic scholarship, where he guided religious matters for over two decades amid major social changes.
This event has drawn global attention, with leaders from around the world offering condolences. As the head of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Abdulaziz played a key role in shaping fatwas and religious policies in Saudi Arabia, a nation central to Islam due to its holy sites in Mecca and Medina.
Early Life and Rise to Prominence
Sheikh Abdulaziz was born on November 30, 1940, in Riyadh. He came from the influential Al ash-Sheikh family, descendants of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, the founder of Wahhabism, which forms the basis of Saudi Arabia’s religious framework.
Despite losing his eyesight in his youth due to an illness, he pursued Islamic studies with determination. He studied under prominent scholars and earned degrees in Sharia law.
In the 1960s, he began his career as an imam at a mosque in Riyadh. By 1979, he became an assistant professor at a Sharia college in Mecca. His deep knowledge and family ties led to his appointment as grand mufti in June 1999 by King Fahd, following the death of his predecessor, Abdulaziz bin Baz.
Over the years, he issued thousands of fatwas on topics ranging from daily life to global issues. His role extended beyond Saudi borders, influencing Sunni Muslims worldwide.
Key Contributions and Legacy
As grand mufti, Sheikh Abdulaziz led the Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Issuing Fatwas. He condemned terrorism, calling out groups like al-Qaida and the Islamic State for their extremist actions.
He supported some of Saudi Arabia’s recent reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, such as allowing women to drive in 2018 and opening cinemas. Yet, he maintained strict views on issues like gender segregation and music in line with Wahhabi traditions.
His fatwas often addressed modern challenges. For instance, he warned against the misuse of technology, like mobile cameras spreading vice, back in 2004. He also spoke on international matters, urging unity among Muslims during conflicts.
Here are some notable fatwas and statements from his tenure:
- In 2011, he declared protests against the government as un-Islamic during the Arab Spring.
- He supported the kingdom’s stance against Shia minorities, which drew criticism for being sectarian.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he endorsed restrictions on Hajj pilgrimages to ensure public health.
His legacy includes promoting education and charity. He founded several Islamic centers and encouraged youth to study religion. Analysts say his passing creates a void in Saudi religious leadership, especially as the kingdom balances tradition with modernization.
Global Reactions and Condolences
News of his death spread quickly, prompting responses from world leaders. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow, calling it a great loss to the Islamic world.
UAE leaders, including those from the Supreme Council, sent messages of sympathy to King Salman. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted Sheikh Abdulaziz’s scholarly contributions.
In Saudi Arabia, the Royal Court issued a statement praising his service. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attended the funeral prayers, showing the high regard for his role.
Social media reflected mixed sentiments. Many praised his wisdom, while some critics pointed to his conservative views on women’s rights and sectarian issues.
Posts on platforms like X showed tributes from Muslims globally, with hashtags like #GrandMufti trending. One user noted his fatwas helped navigate modern Islamic life, while others debated his influence on Saudi reforms.
Funeral Arrangements and Immediate Impact
The funeral prayer took place on September 23, 2025, after the Asr prayer at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh. Absentia prayers were held across the kingdom, including at the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
King Salman ordered these nationwide prayers to honor his legacy. Thousands attended or participated remotely, reflecting his widespread influence.
The table below outlines key details of the funeral and related events:
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Death Announcement | September 23, 2025 | Riyadh | Royal Court statement via state media |
| Main Funeral Prayer | September 23, 2025 (after Asr) | Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque, Riyadh | Attended by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman |
| Absentia Prayers | September 23-24, 2025 | Nationwide, including Mecca and Medina | Ordered by King Salman for public mourning |
| Global Condolences | Ongoing from September 23, 2025 | Various countries | From leaders like PM Modi and UAE rulers |
No cause of death was officially stated, but reports suggest it was due to natural causes related to age. His passing comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is pushing Vision 2030 reforms, raising questions about who will succeed him as grand mufti.
Broader Implications for Saudi Arabia
Sheikh Abdulaziz’s death could signal shifts in the kingdom’s religious landscape. The grand mufti position, created in 1953, has often been held by Al ash-Sheikh family members.
With Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman leading reforms, the next appointee might align more with progressive changes. This includes tourism boosts and entertainment sectors, which Sheikh Abdulaziz cautiously supported.
Experts predict the Council of Senior Scholars will play a key role in the transition. His era bridged strict conservatism with emerging liberalism, influencing how Islam adapts to contemporary issues.
Muslims worldwide may feel the impact during events like the upcoming Hajj in 2026, where fatwas guide millions of pilgrims.
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