Imams of Masjid Al Nabawi – Names, Roles & Significance
Masjid Al Nabawi in Madinah is one of the holiest sites in Islam. It holds deep spiritual meaning for millions of Muslims around the world. Every year, millions of pilgrims plan to visit Madinah to fulfil their lifelong desire to offer prayers in Masjid Al Nabawi.
Masjid Nabawi history is enriched with divine purpose.Who built Masjid al Nabawi? It was built by the Prophet Muhammad ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) himself in 622 CE after his migration to Madinah.
The masjid has always been more than just a place of prayer and worship. Muslims in the early days of Islam used it as a community centre capable of resolving all their issues.
Masjid Al Nabawi, the heart of the early Muslim community, was where the Prophet Muhammad ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) used to lead the prayers, settle disputes, receive revelations, and even teach the companions.
Over the centuries, various caliphs and kings have done their part to further expand and beautify the mosque.
As of now, Masjid Al Nabawi is seen as one of the most significant symbols of Islam. The dome, which was added during the Mamluk era and painted green during the Ottoman era, now rests above the Prophet Muhammad ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) tomb.
At the heart of the beloved Prophet Muhammad ( صلى الله عليه وسلم)’s mosque are the imams who lead the prayers and deliver khutbahs (sermons). They are the chosen ones who uphold the spiritual structure of this holy space on their blessed shoulders.
Ali ibn Abdur-Rahman al Hudhaify is the current chief Imam of Masjid Al Nabawi.
List of Current Imams of Masjid Al Nabawi in 2025
The Imams are an important part of how the mosque is run. Not only do they call Muslims to prayer, but they also are responsible for positively influencing the Muslim community.
Their recitations, scholarship, and presence all contribute greatly to the mosque’s legacy.
These are the following respected scholars who serve as Imams of Masjid Nabawi 2025:
Sheikh Ali Al Hudaify
Sheikh Ali Al Hudaify is one of the most senior and recognised voices in the Islamic world. He is a famous imam of Masjid Nabawi, who is highly respected for his melodic recitation of the holy Quran. This imam has served Masjid Al Nabawi for decades.
He has guided different generations of the Ummah with his highly valuable teachings and long-standing commitment to Islam.
Sheikh Abdul Muhsin Al Qasim
Sheikh Abdul Muhsin Al Qasim has been in service as an Imam at Masjid Al Nabawi since the 1990s. He is a skilled jurist and scholar who is known for his calm demeanour and strong voice.
He is known for covering both modern and classical topics of Islamic law and ethics in his well-structured Friday sermons.
Sheikh Hussain Al Sheikh
Sheikh Hussain Al Sheikh is admired for his eloquent delivery and deep knowledge of Islamic history. In his sermons, he usually covers topics that are related to spirituality, discipline, and societal morals. He has given many of his years to serve as the Imam at Masjid Al Nabawi.
His presence has been known to bring balance and scholarly depth to the holy masjid’s lineup of Imams.
Sheikh Salah Al Budair
Alongside being an imam at Masjid Nabawi, Sheikh Salah Al Budair is also a judge at the High Court in Madinah. He is known to combine scholarly knowledge and legal understanding in his role.
The well-reputed imam is appreciated for his precise recitation and sermons that offer clarity for worshippers looking for practical Islamic guidance.
Sheikh Khalid Muhanna
Sheikh Khalid Muhanna is among the younger generation of Imams at Masjid Nabawi. He is known to leave a lasting impression on those who visit Makkah and Madinah during Ramadan.
He is famous for his soulful recitation of the Quran during the night prayers. He draws hearts of pilgrims in Masjid Nabawi with his clarity in delivery and soft tone.
Sheikh Abdullah Al Qurafi
Sheikh Abdullah Al Qurafi is one of the recently appointed imams at Masjid Nabawi. The imam has been able to quickly gain the fame and respect of the congregation.
His sermons are known for putting weight on the importance of the unity of the ummah. He also puts emphasis on the importance of maintaining character and discipline in Islam.
Sheikh Muhammad Barhaji
Sheikh Muhammad Barhaji also began his tenure as Imam in 2024. This recently appointed imam brings a fresh and energetic approach to leading prayers and giving sermons at Masjid Nabawi.
Many believers resonate with his ability to relate Quranic verses to everyday life.
Sheikh Abdul Bari Thubaity
Sheikh Abdul Bari Thubaity is one of the most respected and oldest imams who has served at Masjid Nabawi. He is well-known for his thoughtful sermons, which show a balanced approach to contemporary issues faced by the Ummah.
He often talks about topics related to community ethics, responsibility, and Islamic values.
Sheikh Ahmad Bin Talib Hameed
Sheikh Ahmad Bin Talib Hameed is famous in the Muslim world for the heartfelt prayers he does during Qiyam and Tarawih.
His leadership is particularly felt during the holy month of Ramadan, where he helps worshippers feel a long-standing connection with Allah, سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى.
Sheikh Ahmad Hudaify
Following the path of his father, Sheikh Ali Al Hudaify, Sheikh Ahmad Hudaify has worked hard to earn his place among the respected Imams of Masjid Al Nabawi.
Worshippers connect his voice and tone with the Islamic leadership that has passed down through his family.
Sheikh Abdullah Al Buayjan
Sheikh Abdullah Al Buayjan is one of the imams at Masjid Nabawi who is known for his strong presence and well-organized sermons.
Recently, he has also been active in outreach,where he leads prayers and delivers khutbahs in different parts of the world.
The Selection Process for Imams in Masjid Al Nabawi
The Imams of Masjid Al Nabawi are appointed through a highly structured process. It is the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques who oversees the entire selection process.
The selection of the imams is based on their command over the Quran, recitation, mastery in Islamic jurisprudence and most importantly, their character. Additional aspects of their appointment include
their standard of faith, behaviour, and overall engagement with the public. Their selection also requires approval from the top levels of Saudi leadership.
The Significance of Imams in Islamic History
Imams have been known to guide the Ummah since the time of the Prophet Muhammad ( صلى الله عليه وسلم). They have always been an important part of the Muslim community.
They lead the Muslim community in prayer and also serve as moral examples and educators for them. The Muslim community looks up to to them for guidance in matters of Shariah.
FAQs
Who is the head Imam of Masjid Al Nabawi?
As of 2025, the most senior and recognised Imam of Masjid Al Nabawi is Sheikh Ali Al Hudaify.
Who leads the Fajr prayer in Masjid Al Nabawi?
In Masjid Nabawi, the Fajr prayer leadership rotates among the different Imams.
How many Imams serve in Masjid Al Nabawi?
Currently, there are 12 appointed Imams who serve at Masjid Al Nabawi.
Who was the first Imam of Masjid Al Nabawi?
The Prophet Muhammad ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) himself was the first Imam of Masjid Al Nabawi.
How often are new Imams appointed?
The appointment of imams is often years apart. It depends on the need.
Are there Imams specifically for Taraweeh prayers?
Yes, some of the Imams in Masjid Nabawi are selected for leading Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan. Their selection is based on their ability to recite the Quran with endurance.
Conclusion
The Imams of Masjid Al Nabawi also serve as community role models. Their voices lead millions of Muslims in prayer. If you’re planning to go for Umrah or Hajj, knowing about the imams would enhance your experience at the holy sites.
Sign up for our newsletter today so you never miss an update from Masjid Al Nabawi!
0
0
0% of readers found this article helpful. Did you?
