Hajj 2024: Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly, the leader of this year's Arafat sermon

Sheikh Maher Al-Muaiqly, a distinguished figure in the Islamic world who is renowned for his profound knowledge of the Quran and eloquent preaching, will deliver this year's Arafat sermon, a privilege that has earned him the title 'Khateeb of Arafah'.

This comes as thousands of Muslims across the world prepare to attend the Hajj pilgrimage.

The Arafat is also known as a farewell pilgrimage, and the sermon is usually delivered on the Ninth Day of Dhul-Hijjah (the 12th and final month in the Islamic Calendar), which is believed to be the day Muslims complete their holy prayers in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The sermon on the Day of Arafat holds great importance for Muslims, and Saudi Arabia ensures its translation through the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques project. This year, the Arafat sermon and the sermons of the Two Holy Mosques will be translated into 20 languages.

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly's background

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly's duty this year was announced on Monday by Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, the President of Religious Affairs for the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, underscoring the significance of his roles in spreading Islamic teachings.

Born 55 years ago into a family with a deep reverence for Islamic scholarship, he embarked on a journey of religious education from a young age and demonstrated exceptional aptitude in memorising the Quran, which earned him recognition as a hafiz.

According to his profile, as published by the Saudi Arabia Al Haramain, his dedication to mastering the intricacies of Islamic jurisprudence led him to pursue higher education, earning multiple degrees from prestigious institutions.

After graduating from the Teachers College in Medina, Sheikh Al-Muaiqly embarked on a career in education, initially serving as a math teacher in Mecca.

His passion for nurturing young minds led him to become a student counsellor, providing guidance and support to students at the Prince Abdul Majeed School.

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly advanced his academic pursuits, obtaining a master's degree in Fiqh from the College of Sharia at Umm Al-Qura University in 2004 ( 1425 AH) and a PhD in Tafsir from the same university in 2010 (1432 AH).

He also earned a PhD in Fiqh with excellent grades and first-class honours in 2013 (1434 AH).

Throughout his career, Sheikh Al-Muaiqly has held various esteemed positions, including assistant professor in the Department of Judicial Studies at the College of Judicial Studies and Regulations at Umm Al-Qura University. He was also the college’s vice dean for postgraduate studies and scientific research.

His contributions to academic research and Islamic scholarship have earned him widespread respect and admiration within the academic community.

Respected Quaran reciter

Beyond academia, Sheikh Al-Muaiqly is celebrated for his mesmerising recitation of the Quran, which has captivated audiences worldwide; his soul-stirring voice and impeccable articulation have made him one of the most revered Quranic reciters of his generation.

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly's recitations have been featured in numerous recordings and broadcasts, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the Islamic world.

He has also served as the Imam and preacher at Al-Saadi Mosque in the Al-Awali district in Mecca and led prayers at the Prophet's Mosque during Ramadan in 2006-2007 (1426 and 1427 AH).

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly led the Ramadan night prayers of Taraweeh and Tahajjud at the Grand Mosque during Ramadan in 2007 (1428 AH) and was appointed an official imam of the Grand Mosque that year.

Sheikh Al-Muaiqly's selection to deliver the Arafat sermon reflects the high esteem with which he is held by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the leadership of Saudi Arabia.

It is a testament to his unwavering dedication to promoting the message of Islam and his commitment to serving the global Muslim community.

His appointment reaffirms the importance of spiritual leadership in fostering unity and enlightenment among believers, and his message is poised to resonate far beyond the confines of the sacred precincts of the Grand Mosque.