Riyadh, September 23, 2025 — Saudi Arabia announced the death of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh, the Grand Mufti and Council Chairman, aged 82.
He passed away on Tuesday morning, according to the Royal Court.
His death marks the end of a distinguished era in the Kingdom’s religious leadership.
Sheikh Abdulaziz had served as Grand Mufti since 1999.
He guided the interpretation of Sharia and issued numerous fatwas.
He also oversaw scholarly research and Ifta through the General Presidency of Scholarly Research.
As head of the Council of Senior Scholars, he played a key role in Saudi religious affairs.
Funeral Arrangements & National Mourning
Funeral prayers will be held at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh after the Asr prayer today. Absentee funeral prayers will also be held at Makkah’s Grand Mosque, Madinah’s Prophet’s Mosque, and nationwide.
The Royal Court called his death a great loss for Saudi Arabia and the Muslim world.
It highlighted his decades of service and contributions to Islamic scholarship and religious guidance.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed condolences to his family and the Muslim community.
Life, Scholarship & Contributions
Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh was born in Mecca in 1943. From a young age, he devoted himself to religious studies. He memorized the Qur’an early, studied Islamic jurisprudence deeply, and later taught at Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University. Even after becoming visually impaired, he remained active in scholarly activities, issuing fatwas and providing guidance.
In 1999, he was appointed Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, succeeding Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ibn Baz. This role made him head of the Council of Senior Scholars and chief authority for Ifta. Under his tenure, Sheikh Abdulaziz issued fatwas on social, cultural, and religious issues, clarifying stances on extremism and radicalism.
Global Reactions & Condolences
Tributes poured in from leaders and scholars across the Muslim world. Religious institutions worldwide mourned him, praising his scholarship, unity efforts, and moderate approach to Islamic jurisprudence.
In Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered condolences. President Zardari described Sheikh Abdulaziz’s long life of religious service as being of great benefit to Islam and Muslims. Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized that his efforts toward Muslim unity and scholarship would remain a legacy.
Role and Significance of the Grand Mufti
As Grand Mufti, Sheikh Abdulaziz led some of the highest religious bodies in Saudi Arabia including:
- The Council of Senior Scholars
- The General Presidency of Scholarly Research and Ifta
- The Supreme Council of the Muslim World League
He issued fatwas, advised the monarchy on religious matters, and promoted moderation, peace, and Islamic scholarship. He was also known for delivering the Hajj sermon on numerous occasions.
His passing comes at a time when the Islamic world is navigating many social, political, and religious challenges. Many analysts say his absence will be felt, as he shaped religious discourse and balanced tradition with modernity.
Legacy & Looking Ahead
Sheikh Abdulaziz’s death opens the way for succession.
A successor is yet to be announced, but many expect senior scholars aligned with his views to assume the role. The next Grand Mufti will likely continue his path in balancing tradition with current issues facing the Muslim ummah.
His legacy includes decades of scholarship, guidance in fatwas, moderation, and emphasis on unity among Muslims. Future generations will remember his teachings, role in religious education, and efforts to strengthen Saudi religious institutions.
The news of Grand Mufti Saudi passes away marks the end of a distinguished era in Islamic leadership. Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh leaves behind a legacy built on scholarship, piety, and service. As funeral prayers are held, the Muslim world mourns and his contributions will inspire scholars and believers for generations.
