Dr. Abdul Latheeff A.Aziz Aal Sheikh: Seven Years of Promoting Islamic Teachings with Harmony and Tolerance
On the 18th of Ramadan, Aal Sheikh marks seven years of dedicated service, upholding the principles of religious harmony and tolerance in the purest form of Islam
In 2024, the Honorable Minister Aal Sheikh was honored with the prestigious “Exemplary Minister of the World” award by Al Hikma Welfare Association, Sri Lanka. Additionally, the Minister received an honorary award in recognition of his exceptional service to Hajj pilgrims.
Dr. Abdul Latif Abdul Aziz Aal Sheikh, the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Call Guidance of Saudi Arabia, is widely regarded as the most distinguished leader in his field. He was first appointed to this esteemed position seven years ago by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud. Recognizing his outstanding performance and dedication, he was reappointed to the same role by the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia following the completion of his tenure.
A descendant of the esteemed Aal Sheikh family, Dr. Abdul Latif carries a legacy of teaching and upholding the pure principles of Deen al-Islam. His ancestors played a crucial role in guiding the early and founding kings of Saudi Arabia, shaping the nation’s religious and governance frameworks. With his profound expertise in Islamic scholarship, he has held several key positions in Saudi Arabia, making significant contributions to Islam, the Muslim world, and his country.
His exceptional service has earned him widespread recognition, setting a global benchmark in leadership. He has received numerous accolades from both government and international organizations. Notably, in 2025, he was honored with the “Most Influential Person in the World” award by the Government of Thailand, further solidifying his impact on the global stage.
In recognition of his dedicated service, Al Hikma Welfare Association Sri Lanka, along with its director, Ash-Sheikh M.H. Shehuddeen Madani, personally presented the “Exemplary Minister” award to him at the Ministry office last year. Within the same year, he was honored once again by the Minister for his exceptional care and commitment to Hajj pilgrims during the last Hajj.
He has successfully organized seminars and conferences on counterterrorism, religious harmony, and tolerance, not only in Saudi Arabia but across the world, including Sri Lanka. Additionally, he has played a key role in hosting national and international Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah competitions, inspiring people to connect with these sacred teachings.
In Sri Lanka, under the direct supervision of Saudi Arabian Ambassador Khalid Bin Hamud Al Qahtani and Indian Regional Islamic Affairs Officer Ash Sheikh Badr Al Anasi, two large-scale Al-Quran memorization competitions were held, receiving widespread praise and appreciation.
Furthermore, under his direct guidance, King Salman has been actively involved in charitable initiatives in Sri Lanka, including the annual distribution of Iftar dry food and fruits, benefiting countless individuals during the holy month of Ramadan.
The Honorable Minister serves as the Director of the Saudi Arabian Fatwa Forum, the General Secretary of the Council of Senior Scholars, and the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Dawah (Calling and Guidance). He also held the esteemed position of personal adviser to King Salman for 13 years during his tenure as the Emir of Riyadh and has served as the General Leader of the Ministerial Commission for Promoting Good and Preventing Evil.
Recognized globally for his outstanding contributions, the Minister has received widespread praise and numerous awards. In Sri Lanka, he was warmly welcomed by the Al Hikma Welfare Association and its Director, Ash-Sheikh M.H. Shehudeen Madani. May Almighty Allah bless him and grant him continued success as a great asset to Islam and the Muslim community.
Ash-Sheikh Shehuddeen Madani, BA
Director,
Al Hikma Welfare Association
Colombo