Religious Affairs Presidency Launches Endowment System for Two Holy Mosques

Makkah, November 02, 2026 — The President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, today launched an integrated endowment and institutional framework designed to serve religious affairs at the Two Holy Mosques. The announcement, carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), marks a significant step toward establishing a sustainable endowment and institutional model that integrates resource development, project management and implementation, and partnerships with the nonprofit and private sectors. The initiative aims to improve spending efficiency and develop the religious and enrichment services provided to the millions of visitors who travel to the Two Holy Mosques each year, in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The launch reflects the Kingdom’s broader commitment to modernizing governance of its most sacred sites while preserving their spiritual integrity.

Why does this development matter now, and what does it signal for the future of religious services in Saudi Arabia? The timing aligns with a period of unprecedented transformation in the Kingdom, as Vision 2030 reshapes economic, social, and institutional life. The Two Holy Mosques—the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah—are the heart of the Islamic world, welcoming millions of pilgrims annually for Hajj and Umrah. Managing their religious affairs efficiently is not only a logistical necessity but also a sacred trust. By introducing a structured endowment system, Sheikh Al-Sudais and his team are laying the groundwork for long-term financial sustainability and enhanced service delivery, ensuring that the spiritual experience of visitors remains paramount even as demand grows.

Context and Background

How did the Presidency of Religious Affairs arrive at this pivotal moment, and what historical foundations support this new framework? The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has long been responsible for overseeing religious rituals, guidance, and educational programs at Islam’s two holiest sites. Under the leadership of Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, who has served as President since 2015, the Presidency has expanded its scope to include digital outreach, multilingual translation of sermons, and enhanced services for pilgrims with disabilities. However, like many government-affiliated religious institutions, it has traditionally relied on state funding and annual budgets. The new endowment framework introduces a hybrid model that blends public oversight with private and nonprofit sector participation, drawing on the principles of waqf (Islamic endowment) that have historically funded mosques, schools, and charitable works across the Muslim world.

The concept of waqf is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, providing a sustainable source of funding for religious and social services. By institutionalizing this practice, the Presidency aims to create a reliable revenue stream that can be reinvested into infrastructure, technology, and human capital. This approach mirrors broader Saudi efforts to diversify funding sources and reduce dependence on oil revenues, a cornerstone of Vision 2030. The framework also reflects a global trend toward social impact investing and public-private partnerships, adapted to the unique spiritual and cultural context of the Two Holy Mosques. As the Kingdom prepares for even larger numbers of pilgrims in the coming decades—targeting 30 million Umrah visitors annually by 2030—the need for innovative, self-sustaining financial models has never been greater.

What lessons can be drawn from similar endowment initiatives in Saudi Arabia and beyond? The Kingdom has a rich history of awqaf (endowments) supporting education, healthcare, and community development. The General Authority for Awqaf, established in 2018, has been working to revitalize the endowment sector, encouraging individuals and corporations to contribute to sustainable charitable causes. The Presidency’s new framework builds on this momentum, but with a specific focus on religious affairs at the Two Holy Mosques. It also aligns with the National Transformation Program, which seeks to enhance government efficiency and promote nonprofit sector growth. By integrating endowment principles into the core operations of the Presidency, the initiative sets a precedent for other religious and cultural institutions in the Kingdom, potentially inspiring similar models across the Islamic world.

Key Details of the Endowment Framework

What exactly does this integrated endowment and institutional framework entail, and how will it function in practice? According to the announcement, the framework integrates three core roles: resource development, project management and implementation, and partnerships with the nonprofit and private sectors. Resource development involves identifying and securing endowment assets—such as real estate, financial investments, and donations—that generate returns to fund religious services. Project management ensures that these funds are allocated efficiently to initiatives that enhance the visitor experience, from upgrading facilities to expanding educational programs. Partnerships with the nonprofit and private sectors will bring in expertise, innovation, and additional capital, creating a collaborative ecosystem that leverages the strengths of each sector.

Sheikh Al-Sudais emphasized that the launch marks a step toward establishing a sustainable endowment and institutional model. This model is expected to improve spending efficiency by introducing transparent budgeting, performance metrics, and accountability mechanisms. It will also develop religious and enrichment services, which may include expanded Quranic study circles, multilingual guidance, digital platforms for remote learning, and cultural exhibitions that highlight the history of the Two Holy Mosques. The framework is designed to be flexible and scalable, allowing the Presidency to adapt to changing needs and opportunities over time. Importantly, it will operate under the oversight of the Presidency, ensuring that all activities remain aligned with Islamic values and Saudi regulations.

How will the Presidency ensure that endowment funds are managed ethically and effectively? The framework includes governance structures that mandate Shariah compliance, regular audits, and stakeholder engagement. A dedicated endowment management unit will oversee daily operations, while an advisory board comprising experts in finance, law, and religious affairs will provide strategic guidance. The Presidency has also committed to publishing annual reports on fund allocation and impact, fostering trust among donors and the public. This level of transparency is unprecedented in the religious affairs sector and reflects the Kingdom’s broader push for good governance. By adhering to international best practices in endowment management, the Presidency aims to attract significant contributions from within Saudi Arabia and the global Muslim community.

International and Regional Impact

How will this initiative resonate beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders, and what does it mean for the global Muslim community? The Two Holy Mosques are not only Saudi treasures but also spiritual anchors for over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. Any improvement in their management and services is felt across the Islamic world. The endowment framework signals that Saudi Arabia is investing in the long-term sustainability of these sacred sites, ensuring that future generations of pilgrims will receive the highest quality of religious guidance and hospitality. This is particularly significant as the Kingdom continues to expand access to Hajj and Umrah through visa reforms, infrastructure projects, and digital platforms. By making the Presidency more financially self-reliant, the initiative also reduces the burden on the state budget, allowing resources to be redirected to other Vision 2030 priorities.

Regionally, the launch could inspire other Muslim-majority countries to adopt similar endowment models for their religious institutions. Countries such as Egypt, Turkey, and Indonesia have long histories of waqf but often face challenges in modernizing their management. Saudi Arabia’s experience could serve as a blueprint, especially as it combines traditional Islamic principles with contemporary governance and technology. Moreover, the involvement of the private sector may open new avenues for cross-border investment and collaboration. International organizations focused on Islamic finance and philanthropy have already expressed interest in learning from the Saudi model. As the Presidency shares its expertise through conferences and partnerships, it will further cement the Kingdom’s role as a leader in innovative religious administration.

What are the potential challenges, and how might they be addressed? Transitioning from a state-funded model to an endowment-based one requires a cultural shift within the institution, including new skills in fundraising, investment, and impact measurement. The Presidency will need to invest in training and capacity-building for its staff, possibly partnering with universities and financial institutions. There may also be concerns about commercialization or dilution of spiritual focus, but the framework’s explicit alignment with Shariah and its oversight by religious scholars should mitigate these risks. By engaging stakeholders early and communicating transparently, the Presidency can build confidence and ensure that the endowment serves its sacred mission without compromise.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Why is this initiative economically significant for Saudi Arabia, and how does it fit into the Kingdom’s broader strategic goals? The endowment framework is expected to mobilize new financial resources for the Two Holy Mosques, reducing the need for direct government funding and freeing up public funds for other sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. It also promotes the growth of the nonprofit sector, which Vision 2030 aims to increase to 5% of GDP. By partnering with private companies, the Presidency can tap into expertise in construction, technology, and hospitality, creating jobs and stimulating innovation. Furthermore, the endowment model encourages long-term investment rather than short-term spending, aligning with the principles of fiscal sustainability and intergenerational equity.

Strategically, the initiative strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites. It demonstrates that the Kingdom is not only capable of managing the massive logistical challenges of Hajj and Umrah but also of pioneering new models of religious governance. This soft power asset is invaluable in international diplomacy, particularly in the Muslim world. By enhancing the spiritual experience of pilgrims, the Presidency contributes to the Kingdom’s reputation as a welcoming and well-organized host. The endowment framework also supports the goals of the Pilgrim Experience Program, one of Vision 2030’s executive programs, which seeks to enrich the journey of pilgrims and increase the number of Umrah visitors to 30 million annually by 2030. A sustainable funding model is essential to achieving that target without compromising service quality.

How will the success of this framework be measured, and what are the expected outcomes? Key performance indicators may include the amount of endowment capital raised, the efficiency of fund allocation, the satisfaction of visitors, and the expansion of religious programs. The Presidency is likely to set specific targets for each area, monitoring progress through regular reviews. In the short term, the focus will be on establishing the governance structures and securing initial endowment contributions. In the medium term, the goal is to fund major projects that enhance the Two Holy Mosques, such as expanded prayer areas, improved transportation, and digital services. In the long term, the endowment could become a permanent source of funding, ensuring that the religious affairs of the Two Holy Mosques are never constrained by budgetary cycles.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does the endowment framework align with Saudi Vision 2030, and what does it reveal about the Kingdom’s approach to modernization? Vision 2030 is built on three pillars: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. The endowment initiative contributes to all three. It enhances the vibrant society by enriching religious and cultural services at the Two Holy Mosques, which are central to Saudi identity and Islamic heritage. It supports a thriving economy by creating a sustainable funding mechanism that reduces government expenditure and stimulates private sector involvement. And it embodies an ambitious nation by demonstrating forward-thinking leadership and effective governance in one of the most sensitive areas of public life. This alignment is not coincidental; it reflects a deliberate strategy to integrate religious institutions into the national transformation agenda.

What does this mean for the future of religious affairs in Saudi Arabia and beyond? The launch of the endowment system is a clear signal that the Kingdom is committed to preserving its religious heritage while embracing innovation. It shows that tradition and modernity can coexist, and that sacred institutions can benefit from the same principles of efficiency, transparency, and sustainability that drive other sectors. As the Presidency implements this framework, it will likely become a model for other religious bodies in Saudi Arabia and around the world. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will be measured not only in financial terms but in the spiritual enrichment of millions of pilgrims who visit the Two Holy Mosques each year. Under the leadership of Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais and with the support of Vision 2030, the Presidency is poised to enter a new era of service and sustainability.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the integrated endowment and institutional framework launched by Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais?

A1. It is a new system that combines resource development, project management, and partnerships with the nonprofit and private sectors to sustainably fund religious affairs at the Two Holy Mosques, improving spending efficiency and services for visitors.

Q2. Who launched this initiative and when?

A2. Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, launched it on November 02, 2026, in Makkah, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q3. What are the main goals of the endowment framework?

A3. The goals include establishing a sustainable funding model, enhancing religious and enrichment services, improving spending efficiency, and fostering partnerships with the nonprofit and private sectors, all in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Q4. How does the framework integrate resource development?

A4. It identifies and secures endowment assets such as real estate, investments, and donations, which generate returns to fund religious services and projects at the Two Holy Mosques.

Q5. What role will the private sector play in this initiative?

A5. The private sector will partner with the Presidency to provide expertise, innovation, and additional capital, helping to implement projects and improve services efficiently.

Q6. How will the endowment improve spending efficiency?

A6. By introducing transparent budgeting, performance metrics, and accountability mechanisms, the framework ensures that funds are allocated effectively to priority areas.

Q7. What are the religious and enrichment services that will be developed?

A7. They include expanded Quranic study circles, multilingual guidance, digital platforms for remote learning, and cultural exhibitions about the Two Holy Mosques’ history.

Q8. How does this initiative align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A8. It supports Vision 2030’s pillars by enhancing religious services, promoting economic sustainability, and demonstrating good governance, contributing to a vibrant society and thriving economy.

Q9. Will the endowment funds be managed according to Shariah principles?

A9. Yes, the framework mandates Shariah compliance, regular audits, and oversight by religious scholars to ensure ethical and proper management.

Q10. How will transparency be ensured in fund management?

A10. The Presidency will publish annual reports on fund allocation and impact, and an advisory board will provide strategic guidance, fostering trust among donors and the public.

Q11. What impact will this have on pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques?

A11. Pilgrims will benefit from improved services, better facilities, and enriched religious programs, enhancing their spiritual experience during Hajj and Umrah.

Q12. How does this initiative affect the global Muslim community?

A12. It ensures the long-term sustainability of services at Islam’s holiest sites, benefiting Muslims worldwide who aspire to visit, and sets a model for innovative religious administration.

Q13. Could this model be replicated in other countries?

A13. Yes, it could inspire other Muslim-majority countries to adopt similar endowment models, combining traditional waqf principles with modern governance and technology.

Q14. What are the economic benefits for Saudi Arabia?

A14. It reduces government expenditure, stimulates private sector growth, creates jobs, and supports the nonprofit sector’s expansion, aligning with Vision 2030’s economic goals.

Q15. How will the success of the endowment framework be measured?

A15. Through key performance indicators such as endowment capital raised, fund allocation efficiency, visitor satisfaction, and expansion of religious programs, monitored via regular reviews.

Q16. What challenges might arise during implementation?

A16. Challenges include transitioning from state funding, building new skills in fundraising and investment, and ensuring spiritual focus; these will be addressed through training and Shariah oversight.

Q17. How does this initiative reflect Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Islamic world?

A17. It demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving Islamic heritage while embracing innovation, reinforcing its role as custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and a leader in religious governance.

Q18. What is the expected timeline for seeing results?

A18. Short-term results include establishing governance structures and securing initial contributions; medium-term results involve funding major projects; long-term results include a permanent sustainable funding source.

Q19. Will the endowment accept international donations?

A19. While specific details are not yet announced, the framework aims to attract contributions from within Saudi Arabia and the global Muslim community, subject to regulations and Shariah compliance.

Q20. How does this initiative preserve the spiritual integrity of the Two Holy Mosques?

A20. By ensuring that all activities remain aligned with Islamic values, overseen by religious scholars, and focused on enhancing the spiritual experience of visitors, the initiative prioritizes sacred mission over commercial interests.

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