Farewell... The Academic and Leadership Circles Remember Dr. Naseef, the Role Model
In one of the most inspiring stories in Saudi Arabia’s development journey, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Omar Naseef stood as a model of dedication in the service of knowledge and science. With deep sorrow and grief, the academic and leadership communities received the news of his passing on Sunday. The Kingdom lost one of its most distinguished sons — a man who bridged rigorous scientific research with influential leadership.
Born in Jeddah in 1939, the late Dr. Naseef carried a lifelong passion for knowledge and learning. He began his academic career as a specialist in geology (earth sciences) and quickly demonstrated his remarkable ability to build institutions. His tenure as President of King Abdulaziz University marked a golden era characterized by both qualitative and quantitative expansion. He firmly believed that scientific research was the engine of development and worked tirelessly to advance academic programs and align university outcomes with the needs of the labor market and society.
Linking Research to Society and the Labor Market
His leadership of King Abdulaziz University stands as the most defining chapter of his career. During that era, he served as both a leader and an architect of the university’s renaissance. He transformed it into a comprehensive academic beacon, directly driving the progress of scientific research and overseeing the expansion of colleges and departments to meet emerging academic needs. Believing that a university should be an extension of its society, he worked to connect it with cultural and scientific initiatives—cementing its status and gaining valuable administrative insight that prepared him for national and international leadership roles.
An Ambassador of Moderation and Dialogue
After leading one of the Kingdom’s foremost academic institutions, Dr. Naseef became the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, where he championed Islamic causes and called for dialogue and mutual understanding among nations and faiths. Known for his calm and reasoned approach, his voice represented moderation in international forums. His efforts in serving Islam and promoting peace earned him the King Faisal International Prize for Service to Islam in 1991.
Alongside his global and religious endeavors, Dr. Naseef also played an important national role as Vice President of the Shura Council, where he was recognized for his wisdom and foresight in legislative decision-making.
An Enduring Intellectual Legacy
Dr. Abdullah Naseef left behind a rich intellectual legacy through his writings, lectures, and thought leadership—each reflecting his deep intellect and balanced worldview. Numerous academic and leadership figures expressed their profound sadness at his passing, affirming that he represented an entire generation of pioneers who helped build the modern Saudi renaissance across education, administration, and Islamic advocacy.
King Abdulaziz University, along with all its leadership, faculty, and staff, extends its deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the late Dr. Naseef’s family, praying that God Almighty grant him His vast mercy, bless him with a place in Paradise, and grant his loved ones patience and solace.
