Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia Abdulaziz Al Sheikh Passes Away

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 84.

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 arrangements will be announced shortly by official sources.