Who Is Sheikh Saleh bin Humaid? Saudi Arabia’s New Mufti

King Salman bin Abdulaziz has appointed Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah Al Humaid as Saudi Arabia’s new Grand Mufti. This follows the death of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Sheikh, who passed away at 82. Sheikh Saleh will also chair the Senior Council of Scholars, guiding religious matters in the Kingdom.

Dr. Saleh has served as Imam and Khateeb of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah for over 40 years. He is known for delivering the annual Hajj sermon at Masjid Namira in Arafat. Besides religious duties, he has been a member of Saudi Arabia’s Majlis al-Shura since 1993. He also served as its Speaker during his tenure.

Born in 1949 in Buraidah, Sheikh Saleh memorized the Qur’an early in life. He earned his Ph.D. in Fiqh and Usul al-Fiqh from Umm al-Qura University. He was the first Imam of Masjid al-Haram to hold a doctoral degree when appointed in 1984. He has held key positions, including Vice President for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques and Advisor to the Royal Court.

Sheikh Saleh has written many books on Islamic jurisprudence and family life. Notable works include Lifting Hardship in Islamic Law and Comprehensive Jurisprudence for Contemporary Issues. He received the King Faisal International Prize for Service to Islam in 2016.

As Grand Mufti, he will lead the Senior Council of Scholars and the Permanent Committee for Islamic Research. His role is vital for issuing fatwas and guiding religious discourse during a time of reform. Sheikh Saleh’s appointment ensures continuity and knowledgeable leadership for Saudi Arabia’s Islamic guidance.