In a quiet but noticeable development from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, respected Islamic scholar and long serving Imam of Masjid An Nabawi, Sheikh Ahmed bin Talib Hameed, has not been included among the officially listed Imams for the Hajj 1446 season. This revelation came to light following the official rollout of the Hajj operations by the Presidency for Religious Affairs, which recently named the ten Imams currently designated to lead prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
The omission of Sheikh Ahmed bin Talib, who has been a familiar and cherished presence at the sacred mosque for many years, has stirred curiosity and reflection within both local and international Islamic communities. Known for his eloquence in Quranic recitation and profound scholarship, Sheikh Ahmed has earned a distinguished reputation among worshippers who frequent Masjid An Nabawi, one of the two holiest sites in Islam.
Although the Presidency did not provide any formal statement regarding his absence, this is in keeping with its traditional approach of not disclosing personnel changes publicly unless deemed necessary. Nonetheless, observers have noted the change, prompting speculation on possible reasons which, according to close watchers of mosque affairs, could range from routine administrative rotations and internal scheduling to personal matters such as health or family obligations.
The current lineup of Imams for the 1446 AH Hajj includes prominent figures such as Sheikh Abdul Mohsin Al Qasim, Sheikh Khalid Muhanna, Sheikh Abdullah Al Buayjan, Sheikh Ahmad Hudaify, Sheikh Salah Al Budair, Sheikh Muhammad Barhaji, Sheikh Ali Hudaify, Sheikh Abdullah Al Qurafi, Sheikh Hussain Ale Sheikh, and Sheikh Abdul Bari Thubaity. Their collective leadership continues to reflect the spiritual and scholarly heritage of the Prophet’s Mosque.
Despite the lack of official comment on his status, there has been no announcement of retirement, reassignment, or resignation concerning Sheikh Ahmed. His absence, though unaccompanied by public clarification, is being viewed with respect and patience, with many faithful hopeful that further clarity may emerge through subsequent official channels or through his reappearance during the Hajj period.
As the Muslim world prepares for the sacred pilgrimage, attention will remain on Masjid An Nabawi not only for its spiritual significance but also for any indication of whether Sheikh Ahmed bin Talib Hameed will once again grace the minbar or mihrab in the near future.
