On Friday, May 16, 2025 (18 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH), the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Masjid al-Haram, witnessed a significant moment of spiritual unity as the Friday Khutbah (sermon) was delivered by Shaykh Yasser al-Dawsari. This sermon, a cornerstone of Islamic worship, was broadcast live in Arabic and simultaneously translated into 11 languages, including English, Urdu, French, Farsi, Malay, Hausa, Turkish, Russian, Hindi, Indonesian, and Chinese.
The initiative to provide live translations of the Khutbah aims to bridge linguistic divides and make the profound messages of faith, unity, and guidance accessible to Muslims around the world. By utilizing the Manarat Al-Haramain digital platform and FM radio frequencies, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques ensures that worshippers, regardless of their language, can connect deeply with the sermon.
Shaykh Yasser al-Dawsari, a prominent Saudi Islamic scholar born in 1980, has served as one of the imams of Masjid al-Haram since 2019. He is known for his eloquent delivery and deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence. His reappointment as an imam in 2024 was met with widespread support, reflecting his esteemed position within the Muslim community.
This multilingual broadcast is part of a broader effort by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enhance the spiritual experience of Muslims worldwide. By breaking down language barriers, the Friday Khutbah becomes a shared experience, fostering a sense of global unity among the Muslim ummah.