Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet has given the green light for the creation of an autonomous entity named “The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque,” which will operate under the direct authority of King Salman bin Abdulaziz. This newly established body will assume responsibility for overseeing the activities of imams and muezzins at the revered holy sites, managing various aspects of their religious functions, including the organisation of seminars and Islamic teachings. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the existing General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques will undergo a transformation into a public institution known as the “General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.”

This novel entity is set to operate with financial independence and will be tasked with a comprehensive range of responsibilities, encompassing operations, services, maintenance, and development linked to the two sacred mosques. The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque will be equipped with a board of directors, with both the chairman and members of the board being appointed through royal decree. Notably, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Sudais has been designated as the head of religious affairs for both the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque via a royal order.

These significant changes will extend to Mecca’s Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, which stand as the most sacred places in Islam. Beyond this, the new body is also anticipated to exercise oversight over all religious matters and undertakings throughout the kingdom. This remit will encompass the supervision of activities within both mosques, including the administration of religious teachings, sermons, and calls to prayer.

 

Source: Gulf News