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Saudi student killed in UK: Funeral on Friday in Makkah, where he once served pilgrims
His funeral prayers are set to take place on Friday after the Jummah prayers in Masjid Al Haram
- PUBLISHED: Thu 7 Aug 2025, 6:53 PM UPDATED: Thu 7 Aug 2025, 7:01 PM
The funeral of the Saudi student killed in a stabbing attack in London will take place on Friday at Saudi's Masjid Al Haram, the Haramain announced on Thursday, August 7.
Twenty year old Muhammad Al-Qassem, a student in the British city of Cambridge, is believed to have been "stabbed in an unprovoked attack" on Friday August 1. He was on a 10-week placement studying English in the city when he died.
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The young man, who once was a devout volunteer serving pilgrims visiting the Kaaba in Makkah, will now be buried in the same place he used to once serve. His funeral prayers are set to take place on Friday after the Jummah prayers.
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The Saudi Arabian embassy in UK had earlier said they were coordinating with authorities to uncover what took place while also completing the procedures for transporting the body of the deceased to Saudi Arabia.
"The embassy and all its staff extend their sincere condolences to the family of the deceased, asking God Almighty to have mercy on him," they said at the time.
Cambridgeshire Police responded to reports of violence in the Mill Park area of the city shortly before midnight on Friday. They found the 20-year-old student with serious injuries. He died at the scene soon after.
A 21-year-old man from Cambridge, charged with murder and possession of a knife in a public place, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates' Court. He has been remanded to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on Wednesday.
'Always ready to serve'
The Inside the Haramain had earlier mourned Al Qassem on its social media, saying that he is known for his "years of selfless service to pilgrims in Masjid Al Haram, Makkah".
"To those who visited or served in the Haramain, Muhammad Al-Qassem was more than a volunteer — he was a shining example of quiet dedication and heartfelt service."
It went on to say how, for years, Al-Qassem used to assist elderly pilgrims, and guide lost visitors during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, ensuring a smooth and spiritual experience for all.
"Inside the Haramain joins the Ummah in offering its sincerest condolences to Muhammad’s family and friends. We ask Allah Almighty to envelop him in His infinite mercy, to accept his years of service, and to grant him the highest ranks of Paradise," it added in the mourning statement.
"For many, he represents the thousands of young men and women who devote themselves to serving the guests of Allah, often with little recognition but great reward."
Photos of Al-Qassem wearing the volunteer uniform in the Grand Mosque in Makkah were shared on social media.
