Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais
Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais is the chief of the Imams of Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah. A world-renowned Qari, he was born on February 10, 1960, in Saudi Arabia. He's originally from the Anazzah clan. He ranks as one of the most popular Imams and famous celebrities in Saudi Arabia.
Early Life and Education
Al-Sudais memorised the Qur’an at the age of 12. He attended the Al Muthana Bin Harith Elementary School in Riyadh. Later on, he attended the Riyadh Scientific Institution from which he graduated in 1979 with a grade of excellent.
In 1983, he obtained a degree in Sharia from Riyadh University. He holds a Master's in Islamic fundamentals from the Sharia College of Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University in 1987 and received his PhD in Islamic Sharia from Umm al-Qura University in 1995 while working there as an assistant professor after serving at Riyadh University.
Career
In 1984 at age 24, Al-Sudais took up his imamate and led his first sermon at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Saud Al-Shuraim has been his partner in Taraweeh Prayers from 1994 till 2006, and again in 2014, 2019 and 2020. They hold the title of "Twins of the Haram".
Al-Sudais led prayers for inter-faith peace and harmony. Through his sermons, he prays and preaches for a stance on peace and conflict-resolution among Muslims. He denounced the treatment of Palestinians and appealed for more aid to be sent to Palestine.
Al-Sudais is also the General President for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques.
Personal Life
Al-Sudais is married to his cousin Fatima bint Ali Al-Sudais and has 9 children from that marriage. He has 4 sons and 5 daughters. His second wife is also related to him from his maternal side, but it is not definite from any reliable source.
Recognition
In 2005, he was named by the Dubai International Holy Qur’an Award (DIHQA) Organising Committee as its 9th annual “Islamic Personality of the Year” in recognition of his devotion to the Quran and Islam.
