JEDDAH — Distinguished Saudi academic and global Islamic figure, Dr. Abdullah Omar Naseef, has passed away at the age of 86 following a prolonged illness.
Funeral prayers were performed on Sunday after Asr at Al-Juffali Mosque in Jeddah, and he was laid to rest at Al-Assad Cemetery. His death marks the loss of one of the most respected voices in Saudi academia and the Islamic world.
Early Life and Education
Born in Jeddah in 1939, Dr. Naseef began his educational journey in the Kingdom before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from King Saud University in 1964. His academic pursuit took him to the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a Ph.D. in Geology in 1971.
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After completing his studies, he returned to Saudi Arabia and began his teaching career at King Saud University in Riyadh, later joining King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah. Over the years, he rose through academic ranks to become a professor and eventually President of King Abdulaziz University.
Dr. Naseef was also a Fellow of the Geological Society of London and the Geological Society of America, reflecting his deep commitment to both science and education.
Career and Achievements
Beyond academia, Dr. Naseef held several influential positions in both national and international organizations. He served as Secretary General of the Muslim World League (MWL) between 1983 and 1993, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening global Islamic cooperation and advocating for Muslim minorities around the world.
His humanitarian vision gave rise to the Islamic Relief Project “Sanabel Al-Khair”, an initiative aimed at combating poverty, ignorance, and disease in underprivileged Muslim communities.
He also represented Saudi Arabia at numerous international forums and interfaith dialogues, promoting peace, mutual understanding, and Islamic values.
Service to Islam and Global Recognition
Throughout his life, Dr. Naseef received numerous honors in recognition of his service to Islam and humanity.
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King Abdulaziz Medal of the First Class (2004)
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The Bronze Wolf Award (1983) — the highest honor of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, recognizing his outstanding contributions to international scouting.
Dr. Naseef’s lifelong commitment to youth development was evident in his decades-long involvement with the Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association, where he began serving in 1956. He later became Chief Scout, President of the International Union of Muslim Scouts, and a member of the World Scout Committee.
Public Service and Leadership Roles
Dr. Naseef’s influence extended into Saudi Arabia’s public affairs. He served as Vice President of the Shoura Council, earning widespread respect for his wisdom, statesmanship, and vision for national progress.
His leadership roles also included:
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Vice Chairman, Saudi National Dialogue Committee (10 years)
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Secretary General, International Islamic Council for Call and Relief (2008–2019)
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Chairman, International Islamic Relief Organization (2000)
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President, World Muslim Congress
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President, Abdullah bin Omar Naseef Charitable Foundation
International Engagements
Globally, Dr. Naseef was an active member and leader in several academic and Islamic institutions, including:
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Board of Trustees, University of Dar es Salaam (New Mexico)
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Board of Trustees, Islamic American College (Chicago)
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Royal Moroccan Academy
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Islamic Academy (Cambridge)
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Vice President, International Islamic University (Islamabad)
He also chaired the boards of several global educational and cultural centers, such as:
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Islamic Cultural Center in Geneva
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Institute for the History of Arabic and Islamic Sciences, University of Frankfurt
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Islamic Cultural Center, Sydney
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International Islamic University, Chittagong
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Darul Ihsan University, Bangladesh
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Islamic University, Niger
Legacy
Dr. Abdullah Omar Naseef leaves behind a legacy defined by his devotion to education, dialogue, and humanitarian service. His efforts bridged the gap between scientific scholarship and Islamic values, influencing generations of scholars and leaders across the Muslim world.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable era of intellectual leadership and religious commitment, but his contributions will continue to inspire the global Muslim community for years to come.
