Who’s Who: Dr. Saud bin Ibrahim Al-Shuraim, imam at the Grand Mosque in Makkah

Dr. Saud bin Ibrahim Al-Shuraim. (Supplied)
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Updated 10 April 2022
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Who’s Who: Dr. Saud bin Ibrahim Al-Shuraim, imam at the Grand Mosque in Makkah

He was born in Riyadh in 1966 and is considered a world-renowned Qur’an reciter whose recitations have been distributed across the globe.

He started his primary education at Areen Elementary School before attending the Model Intermediate School, and Al-Yarmouk Secondary School, all in the Saudi capital.

In 1984, he joined the department of Islamic faith and contemporary doctrines in the college of religious fundamentals at Imam Mohammad bin Saud Islamic University, from which he graduated with a bachelor’s degree four years later.

He received a master’s degree in comparative jurisprudence from the Supreme Jurisdiction Institute of the same university in 1992.

Three years later, he obtained a doctorate in Islamic jurisprudence from Umm Al-Qura University for his thesis on Imam Abu Mansour Al-Kirmani’s book, titled “Paths in the Rituals.”

In 1992, a royal order appointed Al-Shuraim a judge at the Makkah Grand Court, where he served for nearly three years.

A year later he was appointed to a lecturer position at the Grand Mosque, in addition to his duties as an imam and a judge.

Al-Shuraim became a lecturer in 1999 at Umm Al-Qura University’s department of jurisdiction in the college of Shariah and Islamic studies, and promoted to assistant professor four years later.

In 2003, he was appointed deputy dean for scientific affairs and higher studies at the same college, and in 2005 named dean.

Seven years later he was appointed dean of the college of judicial studies and law at the university, a post he held until 2021.

Al-Shuraim has published several books and scientific research.


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 19 December 2025
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

FASTFACT

In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.