The King of Saudi Arabia , King Salman bin Abdulaziz has issued a royal decree appointing Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan as the new Grand Mufti of the Kingdom, marking an important change in the country’s top religious leadership.
According to the royal decree, Sheikh Al-Fawzan will now serve as the Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars and President of the General Presidency of Scientific Research and Ifta, in addition to his existing ministerial roles. The announcement was made following a recommendation by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflecting the Kingdom’s trust in Al-Fawzan’s deep religious knowledge and leadership.
Born on September 28, 1935, Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan is a highly respected Saudi Islamic scholar and one of the most recognized voices within the Salafi movement. Over the decades, he has earned a reputation for his firm stance on religious matters and his contributions to Islamic education and jurisprudence.
With this appointment, Al-Fawzan becomes the fourth Grand Mufti in Saudi Arabia’s history a role that carries great influence over religious rulings and guidance in the Kingdom. His leadership is expected to continue shaping Islamic thought in the country and guiding religious institutions with wisdom and stability.
The Grand Mufti plays a key role in interpreting Islamic law, issuing fatwas, and advising both the government and the public on religious matters. Observers believe Sheikh Al-Fawzan’s long experience and scholarship will help strengthen the Kingdom’s religious framework while maintaining its traditions.
This appointment marks a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s religious leadership, reinforcing the country’s ongoing efforts to balance tradition, scholarship, and modernization under the vision of its leaders.