The Almighty said:
“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits; but give glad tidings to the patient, those who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.'” [Qur’an 2:155–156] How heavy was the news of the passing of our dear brother and loyal friend, Abu Tareq, His Excellency Professor Dr. Muhammad bin Ali bin Faraj Al-‘Aqla, former President of the Islamic University of Madinah, who met his destined end at dawn on Tuesday, the 11th of Jumada al-Akhirah, 1447 AH, corresponding to December 2, 2025.
I came to know His Excellency, may Allah have mercy on him, a quarter of a century ago as a distinguished scholar, an eloquent debater, and a seasoned administrator who left clear marks in every position he held at Umm Al-Qura University and the Islamic University of Madinah. During his presidency, the Islamic University witnessed a qualitative transformation in its colleges, programmes, and academic specialisations, along with a significant expansion of its infrastructure and buildings. The university at that time also experienced a remarkable scholarly movement and strengthened international academic partnerships with prestigious universities and institutions worldwide.
He was, may God have mercy on him, a man in every noble sense of the word—pure, sincere, moderate; truthful in brotherhood, loyal in friendship, loving of goodness, dedicated in his work, generous in dealings, dignified in stature, humble in speech, gentle in dialogue, refined in manners, noble and generous in giving, pleasant in companionship, always smiling, kind-hearted, combining scholarly dignity with human tenderness. No companion ever tired of his company, nor did anyone weary of conversing with him.
His home, may Allah have mercy on him, was always filled with the finest sons of the land of the Two Holy Mosques—imams of the Haramain, scholars, and dignitaries. During his presidency of the Islamic University, he was known for his “open-door policy,” being close to the university’s students who came from more than 150 countries. He would visit their residences, check on their conditions, and resolve their problems and concerns.
May Allah have mercy on you, Abu Tareq. You lived honourably, departed honourably, and will remain honoured in our hearts, because you are honourable, the son of an honourable man, from an honourable land. May Allah gather us with you in the highest gardens of Paradise, in a seat of truth near the Sovereign, the Omnipotent.
On this sad occasion, the International Islamic Fiqh Academy—its President, members, experts, and staff—extends its sincere condolences to the family of the dear departed, asking the Almighty Lord to forgive him, envelop him in His vast mercy, grant him spacious gardens, and gather him with the prophets, the truthful, the martyrs, and the righteous—what excellent companions they are. We also ask the Exalted One to inspire his family and loved ones, especially his dutiful sons Tareq, Ali, Aqil, Abdullah, and their sisters, with patience, solace, and acceptance of Allah’s decree.
Your brother and loving friend, who will continue to pray for your forgiveness and mercy as long as he lives:
Koutoub Moustapha Sano
Secretary-General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy

Paradise is your abode, and may God bless your descendants.