Imam of Masjid al Nabawi Concludes Official Visit to the Maldives

Sheikh Dr Salah al Budair, the Imam of Masjid al Nabawi, has concluded his official visit to the Maldives. 

The Imam arrived last Monday at the invitation of the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, in line with a directive from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to host prominent Islamic personalities in the country.

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اختتم فضيلة الشيخ الدكتور صلاح البدير إمام المسجد النبوي الشريف زيارته الرسمية إلى جمهورية المالديف والتي استمرت خمسة أيام بدعوة من وزارة الشؤون الإسلامية وفقا لتوجيهات فخامة الرئيس الدكتور محمد معز .@Emam_moathen@mhmdala91122210@saudiatv_news pic.twitter.com/fdHBNY3mkK— Ministry of Islamic Affairs (@MVIaffairs) April 25, 2025

During his visit, Sheikh al Budair met with President Muizzu and Dr Shaheem. A significant meeting was held with the Supreme Council for Islamic Fatwa, where discussions focused on improving the processes for issuing religious lectures (fatwas).

The Imam also visited the historic Friday Mosque in Malé and engaged with local children from preschools. He met young Imams, Khathibs, and religious scholars from across the Maldives. Additionally, he interacted with students enrolled at the Centre for the Holy Quran and private Quran institutions.

Sheikh al Budair led congregational prayers at the King Salman Mosque on Wednesday for Maqrib and Isha, and at the Islamic Centre on Thursday for Isha prayers, where he delivered a special sermon. He also led Friday prayers at the Islamic Centre.

The Imam’s visit included meetings with significant local figures, such as Sheikh Ismail Mohamed, the first Maldivian scholar to graduate from the Islamic University of Medina, and students from the Islamic University of Maldives.

In his Friday sermon at the Islamic Centre, Sheikh al Budair warned against those who harm their own nations, sow discord, and threaten peace and security. He condemned actions that spread hatred, injustice, and division, emphasising that such individuals undermine the foundation of a united society.

The Imam urged believers to practice love, compassion, and brotherhood, stressing that true unity arises from mercy, humility, and mutual respect. He reminded the faithful of the importance of fulfilling the needs of others, showing kindness, and offering charity. His sermon also encouraged acts of kindness and compassion, stating that even small acts of generosity hold great value in Islam.

In his advice to the congregation, Sheikh al Budair cautioned against slander, lies, and harsh judgement of others, calling for humility, prayer, and a return to sincerity in faith. He urged the believers to wake up from complacency and be more attuned to their spiritual duties.

The Imam’s visit and his sermons resonated deeply with the congregation, offering a timely reminder of the values that strengthen both individual character and the collective spirit of the Muslim community.