Imam of Masjid al-Haram Sheikh Badr Al-Turki arrives in Tanzania for first official visit

Sheikh Badr Muhammad Al-Turki, one of the Imams of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, arrived in Tanzania on Saturday, April 4, marking his first official visit to the country.

During his visit, Sheikh Badru Al-Turki is expected to preside over the closing ceremony of the International Quran Memorization Competition, a significant event that brings together participants dedicated to the memorization and recitation of the Holy Qur’an.

In addition to the competition, the Sheikh will lead a series of da’wah initiatives across Tanzania. His program includes delivering lectures in various mosques and engaging with members of the local Muslim community, aiming to inspire and strengthen religious understanding.

Upon arrival at Mwalimu Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Sheikh Al-Turki was warmly received by the Mufti of Tanzania, Abubakar Zubeir bin Ali, alongside the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Tanzania and other prominent Muslim religious leaders.

Accompanying him on this visit is Muhammad Al-Arifi, a renowned scholar and lecturer from Saudi Arabia who currently serves as a Senior Advisor to the Minister of Islamic Affairs in the Kingdom.

Sheikh Badr Muhammad Al-Turki was appointed as an Imam at Masjid al-Haram in 2024. At just 40 years old at the time of his appointment, he became one of the youngest Imams to serve at Islam’s holiest site, highlighting his distinguished scholarship in the sciences of the Qur’an.