What Makes Masjid an-Nabawi’s New Imam Dr Abdullah Special

Khuram Shahzad

Madinah: The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Two Holy Mosques has released the detailed academic and missionary profile of His Eminence Sheikh Dr Abdullah Al-Qarafi following his permanent appointment as an Imam at Masjid an-Nabawi.

Widely known for his serene and deeply emotional Quranic recitation style, often described as “Al-Sawt Al-Naddi” (the sweet, melodious voice), Dr Al-Qarafi’s journey reflects a distinguished progression from leading prayers in historic mosques of Madinah to serving at one of Islam’s holiest sites.

According to official records, Dr Al-Qarafi is a respected scholar of contemporary Islamic sciences and Quranic recitation (Qira’at). He holds a PhD in Quranic Studies from the Islamic University of Madinah, where he currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of the Holy Quran (Kulliyah al-Quran al-Karim).

He is also recognized for possessing the highest levels of authentic chains of transmission (Isnad) in the Hafs ‘an ‘Asim recitation style. He studied under prominent scholars and grand reciters of Madinah, including Sheikh Al-Muqri Saif Al-Rahman bin Hafiz, Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Akhdar, Sheikh Abdul-Rafi Radwan, and Sheikh Hazim Said Haidar.

Before his appointment at Masjid an-Nabawi, Dr Al-Qarafi served as the permanent Imam and Khatib of the Miqat Mosque (Dhul Hulayfah). He also led Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers at several historic mosques in Madinah, including the Quba Mosque, Qiblatain Mosque, and Al-Muhajireen Mosque.

His selection to lead Taraweeh prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque in 1445 AH marked a significant milestone in his career, which was later followed by a royal decree appointing him as a permanent full-time Imam in 1446 AH.

His appointment has been widely welcomed by pilgrims and scholars, with his recitations receiving international appreciation for their spiritual depth and emotional impact.