DUBAI, UAE — Saudi Arabia has officially appointed Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan, a distinguished Islamic scholar, as the new Grand Mufti of the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) announced late Wednesday.
The appointment, approved by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and recommended by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, places the 90-year-old cleric in one of the most influential religious positions in the Islamic world.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Islamic Scholarship
Born on September 28, 1935, in Al-Qassim Province, Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan began his journey in Islamic studies at an early age, memorizing the Qur’an under the guidance of a local imam following his father’s passing. Over the years, he became one of the kingdom’s most prominent scholars through his lectures, radio programs, and published works.
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He is widely known for his long-running program “Noor ala al-Darb” (Light the Way), where he provided guidance on Islamic law, faith, and daily life. His scholarly contributions have reached millions through books, media appearances, and online platforms.
A Controversial Yet Influential Voice
Despite his religious influence, Sheikh Al-Fawzan has drawn criticism in Western media for his conservative viewpoints. In 2017, Human Rights Watch cited remarks attributed to him that reflected a harsh stance toward Shiite Muslims and other groups. His past statements, including those about slavery and jihad in Islam, have often sparked international debate.
Nevertheless, his teachings remain influential in shaping Saudi Arabia’s religious discourse. He has also been vocal against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, particularly condemning their attacks on Islamic holy sites in the kingdom.
In 2016, Al-Fawzan reportedly issued a fatwa banning “Pokémon Go”, considering it a form of gambling — a stance that drew attention, especially as Saudi Arabia later invested in the gaming industry.
Following the Legacy of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh
Sheikh Saleh succeeds Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Sheikh, who served as Grand Mufti for 25 years until his death in September. The role of Grand Mufti has historically been held by members of the Al-Sheikh family, descendants of Sheikh Muhammad ibn Abdul-Wahhab, the 18th-century religious reformer whose teachings — often referred to as “Wahhabism” — deeply influenced Saudi Arabia’s religious identity.
A New Chapter for Saudi Arabia’s Religious Leadership
The Grand Mufti’s position carries immense weight within the global Sunni Muslim community. Saudi Arabia, as the custodian of Mecca and Medina, the two holiest cities in Islam, regards the Grand Mufti as a leading authority on religious and legal rulings (fatwas).
In recent years, under King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom has undergone major social reforms — including allowing women to drive, reopening cinemas, and diversifying its economy away from oil. Sheikh Al-Fawzan’s appointment marks a significant moment in balancing Saudi Arabia’s modern vision with its deeply rooted religious traditions.
