Dr. Saleh bin Zain Al-Abidin Al-Shaibi, the esteemed guardian of the Holy Kaaba and keeper of its key, passed away on Saturday morning after a prolonged illness. Dr. Saleh Al-Shaibi held the distinguished position of the 109th guardian of the Kaaba since the historic Conquest of Makkah.
His death has elicited a wave of condolences from leaders and dignitaries around the world. Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed their deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Saleh bin Zain Al-Abidin, highlighting the significant role he played in the custodianship of Islam’s holiest site.
Dr. Saleh Al-Shaibi became the caretaker of the Kaaba in 2013, succeeding his uncle, Abdulqader Taha Al-Shaibi, who previously held the position. The responsibility of safeguarding the Kaaba has been traditionally entrusted to the Al-Shaibi family. This revered custom was established by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) after the Conquest of Makkah in the 8th year of Hijra. The Prophet handed the key to Uthman Ibn Abi Talha and decreed that this honor should perpetually remain within his family. This tradition has been meticulously maintained for centuries, signifying both the historical and religious importance of the Al-Shaibi family in Islamic culture.
In addition to his custodial duties, Dr. Saleh Al-Shaibi was known for his involvement in various cultural and diplomatic activities. Notably, in November of the previous year, Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Saleh Zainul Abedin Al Shaibi, another key bearer of the Kaaba, visited Pakistan for six days. During this visit, he engaged in high-level discussions with the country’s top leadership, underscoring the strong historical ties and mutual respect between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
The role of the guardian of the Kaaba encompasses more than the mere custodianship of its keys. It includes the preservation of its sanctity, overseeing the rituals associated with the Kaaba, and ensuring that the site remains accessible to millions of Muslim pilgrims who visit each year for Hajj and Umrah. The guardianship is a position of immense spiritual significance, reflecting a legacy that connects directly to the foundational moments of Islamic history.
Dr. Saleh bin Zain Al-Abidin’s passing marks the end of an era for the Al-Shaibi family and the global Muslim community. His contributions to the maintenance and veneration of the Kaaba will be remembered as part of a long-standing tradition that continues to be central to Islamic faith and practice.