Sheikh Abdul Rehman Al Sudais (born February 10, 1960) is a prominent Saudi Islamic scholar, renowned for his role as the Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca and his influential recitations of the Quran. Al Sudais gained international recognition for his emotional and articulate delivery of the Quran, which has captivated millions during key religious events such as Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage. His deep commitment to Islamic education is evidenced by his extensive academic background, which includes a Ph.D. in Islamic Sharia from Umm al-Qura University, and his advocacy for humanitarian causes within the Muslim community and beyond.
Since his appointment as Imam in 1984, Al Sudais has held several key positions, including the General President of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, enhancing his role in overseeing the administration of these sacred sites. He has also been a vocal advocate for peace and tolerance, often emphasizing the need for interfaith dialogue and humanitarian assistance, particularly in relation to the Palestinian territories. His initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering compassion and understanding in a diverse world, although his outspoken views have occasionally drawn criticism, notably for remarks perceived as anti-Semitic and his controversial stances on gender issues.
Al Sudais has received numerous accolades, including the “Islamic Personality of the Year” award in 2005 from the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, recognizing his significant contributions to Islamic scholarship and Quranic recitation. His influence extends beyond his sermons, as he actively engages in promoting educational programs and humanitarian efforts aimed at uplifting underprivileged communities. As a central figure in contemporary Islamic discourse, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais continues to navigate the complexities of religious leadership and social advocacy, striving to embody the principles of peace and tolerance within Islam.
Short BIO of Sheikh Abdul Rehman Al Sudais
Full Name: Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Aziz al-Sudais
Profession: Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca
Born: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Eye Colour: Brown
Hair Colour: Black
Date of Birth: February 10, 1960
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Awards: Islamic Personality of the Year (2005)
Religion: Islam
Hobbies: Studying Islam, teaching the Quran
Marital Status: Married
Children: 4
Height: 5′ 8″ (1.73 m)
Nationality: Saudi Arabian
Hometown: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Early Life
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais was born on February 10, 1960, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, into the Anazzah clan, a family that deeply respected Islamic scholarship and Quranic studies. He demonstrated remarkable dedication to the Quran from an early age, having memorized it by the age of 12. Al-Sudais attended the Al Muthana Bin Harith Elementary School and later graduated with excellence from the Riyadh Scientific Institution in 1979. Following his foundational education, he pursued higher studies in Sharia at Riyadh University, earning his degree in 1983. His academic journey continued at the Sharia College of Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Islamic fundamentals in 1987. Al-Sudais later received his Ph.D. in Islamic Sharia from Umm al-Qura University in 1995 while also serving as an assistant professor there. Throughout his formative years, Al-Sudais was influenced by a commitment to Islamic education and values, which later shaped his career as an imam and a respected reciter of the Quran. His early life experiences laid the foundation for his significant contributions to Islamic teaching and leadership in the years to come.
Career
Early Life and Education
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais was born on February 10, 1960, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He demonstrated an early aptitude for religious studies, memorizing the Quran by the age of 12. He pursued his education at the Al Muthana Bin Harith Elementary School and later graduated with excellent grades from the Riyadh Scientific Institution in 1979. Al Sudais earned a degree in Sharia from Riyadh University in 1983, followed by a Master’s in Islamic fundamentals from Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University in 1987. He further advanced his studies, receiving a Ph.D. in Islamic Sharia from Umm al-Qura University in 1995 while serving as an assistant professor at the institution..
Role as Imam
In 1984, at the young age of 22, Al Sudais was appointed as the Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca. This significant appointment came through a royal directive, marking the beginning of his prominent role in Islamic leadership. Since then, he has led Taraweeh prayers annually and completed the Quran recitation multiple times, notably completing his 35th recitation in 2015. His recitations are renowned for their emotional depth, earning him recognition and respect within and outside the Muslim community.
Leadership Positions
Beyond his role as an Imam, Al Sudais has held several key positions. In 2012, he was appointed the General President of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, a role that elevated him to the rank of minister. His responsibilities included overseeing the administration and operations of these significant religious sites. On August 8, 2023, he was further appointed as the president of the newly established independent agency for the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
Advocacy and Public Stance
Sheikh Al Sudais is also known for his vocal opposition to violence and terrorism, firmly stating that such acts are not representative of Islam. He has called for peaceful dialogue among faiths and consistently advocates for humanitarian aid, particularly in the context of the Palestinian territories. His sermons often highlight the plight of those in need, urging the Muslim community to provide support. In recognition of his efforts, he received the Islamic Personality of the Year award from the Dubai International Holy Quran Award in 2006. Through his leadership and advocacy, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais has become a prominent figure in contemporary Islamic discourse, emphasizing the values of peace, compassion, and humanitarianism.
Contributions to Islam
Early Life and Education
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais was born on February 10, 1960, into a family that deeply respected Islamic scholarship and Quranic studies. From an early age, he displayed a passion for Quran recitation, which guided his educational journey. He graduated from Al Imam Mohamed Ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh and continued his studies in Sharia at Umm al-Qura University, ultimately earning a Ph.D. in Islamic Sharia from the Islamic University of Madinah.
Rise to Prominence
Al-Sudais’ prominence in the Islamic world began with his appointment as the Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1984. His recitations are renowned for their emotional depth and clarity, drawing millions closer to the divine message of the Quran during pivotal moments such as the Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage. His global influence is further enhanced by recordings of his recitations that are widely available online, inspiring many to delve into the teachings of Islam.
Educational Initiatives
Beyond his role as an Imam, Al-Sudais has significantly contributed to Islamic education. He has established and supported numerous Quranic schools and educational programs, thereby playing a pivotal role in the dissemination of Islamic knowledge. His efforts have enhanced the accessibility of Quranic studies for a broader audience, ensuring that the teachings of Islam continue to be learned and practiced.
Humanitarian Work
Al-Sudais is also active in humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the Islamic obligation to assist those in need, irrespective of their background. His work promotes a message of compassion and support, aligning with the fundamental teachings of Islam regarding charity and community service.
Interfaith Dialogue
As an advocate for interfaith dialogue, Al-Sudais has engaged with leaders from various religious backgrounds to foster mutual respect and understanding. His initiatives aim to build bridges among diverse communities, promoting peaceful coexistence and collaboration in addressing global challenges.
Authorship
In addition to his spoken contributions, Al-Sudais has authored several books on Islamic jurisprudence and Quranic interpretation. His writings add depth to the academic discourse on Islam, exploring various facets of Islamic law and its application in contemporary society.
Global Islamic Influence
Through his various endeavors, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais has made significant contributions to the global Islamic community. His dedication to education, humanitarian causes, and interfaith relations exemplifies his commitment to furthering the understanding and practice of Islam worldwide.
Advocacy and Social Work
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais is not only renowned for his role as the imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, but he is also deeply committed to humanitarian causes and social advocacy. His work focuses on promoting tolerance, peace, and humanitarian aid within the Muslim community and beyond. Al-Sudais has emphasized the importance of a harmonious and moderate society, stating that tolerance fosters a cohesive homeland where love and coexistence prevail. In his capacity as the President of Religious Affairs, Al-Sudais has championed initiatives aimed at spreading the values of tolerance and addressing pressing social issues. He believes that the Two Holy Mosques play a crucial role in guiding and illuminating the path towards a more peaceful society. His advocacy extends to various charitable endeavors, where he has provided support to underprivileged communities and educational programs in impoverished areas, showcasing his dedication to uplifting those in need. One of Al-Sudais’s notable initiatives is the launch of the General Presidency’s Makers Program, which aims to enhance the services provided to pilgrims during the Hajj season. This program is designed to motivate innovative ideas and initiatives that improve the overall experience for those visiting the Two Holy Mosques, reflecting Al-Sudais’s commitment to operational excellence and the welfare of the Muslim community. He has stated that the initiatives launched are aimed at achieving operational efficiency and maximizing the quality of services, thus reinforcing the message of peace and moderation that the Two Holy Mosques embody. However, his advocacy has not been without controversy. In 2002, Al-Sudais faced significant criticism for his inflammatory rhetoric against Israel, which included calls for violence and derogatory remarks about Jewish people. These statements sparked a backlash, prompting discussions about the role of religious leaders in conflict situations. Despite this, his overall mission remains focused on fostering tolerance and peace among diverse communities, positioning himself as a prominent voice in the Islamic world dedicated to humanitarian causes.
Controversies
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais has been involved in several controversies, particularly concerning his public statements and views on various subjects.
Anti-Semitic Remarks
In 2005, a BBC Panorama program featured an interview with Al Sudais that sparked significant backlash. The Muslim Council of Britain criticized the program for allegedly misrepresenting his comments, describing the quotes as “deliberately garbled” and labeling the entire segment as “deeply unfair.”
 The council condemned any form of anti-Semitic remarks but sought verification that the statements attributed to Al Sudais were accurate. Following these exchanges, Mike Robinson, the editor of Panorama, responded to the Muslim Council’s allegations, accusing them of “unwarranted and wildly inaccurate attacks” and “bad faith allegations.
Public Engagements and Protests
In August 2009, Al Sudais’s visit to the United Kingdom prompted protests from the Board of Deputies of British Jews. During this visit, he delivered lectures at multiple mosques and participated in an event alongside Conservative MP Tony Baldry. Despite the protests, Baldry defended his association with Al Sudais, claiming, “If I had written a text of what a moderate Muslim would say, his would have been a word-perfect example.”
 This defense came amidst heightened scrutiny over Al Sudais’s past comments, which many found controversial.
Gender Comments
Al Sudais has also faced criticism for his views on women. He has made statements regarding women’s behavior that some have interpreted as regressive. For instance, he once attributed the cause of a drought in Saudi Arabia to sins he associated with women, such as unveiling and mingling with men.
 This stance has drawn condemnation from various human rights advocates who argue that such views perpetuate gender discrimination. These controversies highlight the complex and often contentious nature of Al Sudais’s public persona, illustrating the intersection of religion, politics, and societal norms in his discourse.
Recognition and Awards
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais has received numerous accolades throughout his career, reflecting his significant contributions to Islamic scholarship and Quranic recitation. His efforts have not only enriched the spiritual life of Muslims but have also earned him recognition on a global scale.
Islamic Personality of the Year
In 2005, Al-Sudais was honored by the Dubai International Holy Quran Award (DIHQA) as the “Islamic Personality of the Year.” This accolade recognized his deep commitment to the Quran and the principles of Islam. Upon receiving the award, he emphasized that the core message of Islam is one of modesty, fairness, security, and harmony.
Contributions to Education
Beyond his role as an Imam, Al-Sudais has been pivotal in establishing educational programs and institutions focused on Quranic sciences and Islamic studies. These initiatives aim to cultivate the next generation of scholars and reciters, thus ensuring the continuity and enrichment of Islamic education.
Promoting Peace and Understanding
Al-Sudais is also recognized for his efforts in promoting peace, understanding, and unity among the Muslim community and beyond. He has actively engaged in interfaith dialogue and addressed issues of extremism, striving to foster mutual respect among different religious groups. His statements on global issues, including his support for the Palestinian cause and his advocacy for tolerance, further illustrate his commitment to these values.
Awards and Recognition
His contributions have garnered numerous awards from various Islamic institutions and governments, highlighting the broad appreciation for his work in enhancing the spiritual and social dimensions of Islamic life. Al-Sudais’s recognition is not only a testament to his individual achievements but also reflects the collective respect for the values he embodies and promotes within the global Muslim community.
Personal Life
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais was born on February 10, 1960, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He is married to Fatima bint Ali al-Sudais, with whom he has nine children—four sons and five daughters. His children’s names include Abdulaziz, Abdullah, Sohaib, Bakr, Zainab, Omaima, Sumaya, Malika, and Nusaiba.The Sheikh is known for his commitment to family values and often emphasizes the importance of education and religious upbringing in his household. In addition to his familial responsibilities, Al Sudais has a distinguished career as an imam and qari (reciter of the Quran). He has been the Imam of Masjid al-Haram since May 23, 1984, and serves as the head of the Imams at this sacred mosque, overseeing the spiritual guidance offered to millions of pilgrims each year. His recitations have inspired many, and his voice is particularly cherished among Muslims around the world. Despite his significant public role, Al Sudais leads a life that reflects both humility and devotion to his faith. It is said that he, along with other imams of Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi, does not receive a fixed salary for his services; rather, the Saudi government provides them a blank cheque monthly, allowing them to fill it according to their needs.
This arrangement underscores the respect and value placed on their contributions to the Islamic community. Sheikh Al Sudais’ impact extends beyond his recitations; he has also played a role in humanitarian efforts, such as the inauguration of projects aimed at assisting sick and elderly pilgrims. His dedication to service and leadership in Islamic education reflects his lifelong commitment to his faith and community.
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References
- ABDUL RAHMAN AL-SUDAIS – Scholars of Islam
- 8 Facts about Imam Abdur Rahman Al-Sudais – Life in Saudi Arabia
- Abdul-Rahman Al-Sudais – Wikipedia
- Sheikh Abdul Rehman Al Sudais, Imam of Masjid Al Haram and President of …
- sheikh abdul rahman al sudais – IslamiCity
- Abdulrahman al-Sudais – Saudipedia
- 10 Famous Facts About Kaaba Imam Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais
- Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais – IslamiCity
- Abdul-Rahman Al-Sudais – Wikipedia
- Abd al-Rahman al-Sudays – Wikipedia
- Abdul Rahman Al Soudais Full Quran MP3 Listen – QuranPro
- Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais – Wikiquote
- Understanding Sheikh Sudais | TimelineDaily
- Al-Sudais launches initiative makers program to serve Hajj … – Leaders
- Abd al-Rahman al-Sudays – Wikipedia
