Saudi Arabia

Muhammad

Military Commander

Abū al-Qāsim Muḥammad ibn ʿAbd Allāh ibn ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib ibn Hāshim, also transliterated as Muhammad, was a religious, political, and military leader from Mecca who unified Arabia into a single religious polity under Islam. He is believed by Muslims and Bahá'ís to be a messenger and prophet of God. Muhammad is almost universally considered by Muslims as the last prophet sent by God for mankind. While non-Muslims regard Muhammad to have been the founder of Islam, Muslims consider him to have been the restorer of an unaltered original monotheistic faith of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and other prophets. Born in about 570 CE in the Arabian city of Mecca, Muhammad was orphaned at an early age and brought up under the care of his uncle Abu Talib. He later worked mostly as a merchant, as well as a shepherd, and was first married by age 25. Being in the habit of periodically retreating to a cave in the surrounding mountains for several nights of seclusion and prayer, he later reported that it was there, at age 40, that he received his first revelation from God. Three years after this event Muhammad started preaching these revelations publicly, proclaiming that "God is One", that complete "surrender" to Him is the only way acceptable to God, and that he himself was a prophet and messenger of God, in the same vein as other Islamic prophets.

Osama bin Laden

Arabic Speaker

Osama bin Mohammed bin Awad bin Laden was the founder of al-Qaeda, the Sunni militant Islamist organization that claimed responsibility for the September 11 attacks on the United States, along with numerous other mass-casualty attacks against civilian and military targets. He was a Saudi Arabian, a member of the wealthy bin Laden family, and an ethnic Yemeni Kindite. He was born in the bin Laden family to billionaire Mohammed bin Awad bin Laden in Saudi Arabia. He studied there in college until 1979, when he joined the mujahideen forces in Pakistan against the Soviets in Afghanistan. He helped to fund the mujahideen by funneling arms, money and fighters from the Arab world into Afghanistan, also gaining popularity from many Arabs. In 1988, he formed al-Qaeda. He was banished from Saudi Arabia in 1992, and shifted his base to Sudan, until US pressure forced him to leave Sudan in 1996. After establishing a new base in Afghanistan, he declared a war against the United States, initiating a series of bombings and related attacks. Bin Laden was on the American Federal Bureau of Investigation's lists of Ten Most Wanted Fugitives and Most Wanted Terrorists for his involvement in the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings.

Umar

Noble person

'Umar, also spelled Omar, was one of the most powerful and influential Muslim caliphs in history. He was a sahābi of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He succeeded Caliph Abu Bakr as the second Caliph of Rashidun Caliphate on 23 August 634. He was an expert Islamic jurist and is best known for his pious and just nature, which earned him the title Al-Faruq. He is sometimes referred to as Caliph 'Umar I by historians of Islam, since a later Umayyad caliph, 'Umar II, also bore that name. Under Umar the Islamic empire expanded at an unprecedented rate ruling the whole Sassanid Persian Empire and more than two thirds of the Eastern Roman Empire. His attacks against the Sassanid Persian Empire resulted in the conquest of the Persian empire in less than two years. It was Umar, according to Jewish tradition, who set aside the Christian ban on Jews and allowed Jews into Jerusalem and to worship.

Abu Bakr

Noble person

Abu Bakr as-Șiddīq, c. popularly know by his nickname Abū Bakr was a senior companion and the father-in-law of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He ruled over the Rashidun Caliphate from 632–634 CE when he became the first Muslim Caliph following Muhammad's death. As Caliph, Abu Bakr succeeded to the political and administrative functions previously exercised by Muhammad, since the religious function and authority of prophethood ended with Muhammad's death according to Islam. He was called Al-Siddiq and was known by that title among later generations of Muslims. As a young man, Abu Bakr became a merchant and he traveled extensively in Arabia and neighboring lands in the Middle East, through which he gained both wealth and experience. He eventually came to be recognized as the chief of his clan. On his return from a business trip to Yemen, he was informed that in his absence Muhammad had openly declared his prophethood. Not long after, Abu Bakr accepted Islam and was the first person outside the family of Muhammad to openly become a Muslim. He was instrumental in the conversion of many people to the Islamic faith and early in 623, Abu Bakr's daughter Aisha was married to Muhammad, strengthening the ties between the two men.

Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

Politician

Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman bin Faisal bin Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques is the King of Saudi Arabia. He ascended to the throne on 1 August 2005 upon the death of his half-brother, King Fahd. Abdullah, like Fahd, was one of the many sons of Ibn Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. Abdullah has held important political posts throughout most of his adult life. In 1961 he became mayor of Mecca, his first public office. And, in 1962, he was appointed commander of the Saudi Arabian National Guard, a post he was still holding when he became king. He also served as deputy defense minister and was named crown prince when Fahd took the throne in 1982. After King Fahd suffered a serious stroke in 1995, Abdullah became the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia until claiming the throne a decade later. Abdullah is the sixth king of Saudi Arabia, following King Abdulaziz, King Saud, King Faisal, King Khalid, and King Fahd. Upon ascending the throne in 2005, Abdullah named another half-brother, Sultan bin Abdulaziz, as the crown prince. According to a 2001 report, Abdullah "has four wives, seven sons, and 15 daughters". To placate Saudi Islamists, the king disallowed U.S. Iraq War forces to use bases in Saudi Arabia. The king has a personal fortune estimated at US$18 billion, making him the third wealthiest head of state in the world.

Khalid ibn al-Walid

Military officer

Khālid ibn al-Walīd also known as Sayf Allāh al-Maslūl, was a companion of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He is noted for his military tactics and prowess, commanding the forces of Medina under Muhammad and the forces of his immediate successors of the Rashidun Caliphate; Abu Bakr and Umar ibn Khattab. It was under his military leadership that Arabia, for the first time in history, was united under a single political entity, the Caliphate. Commanding the forces of the nascent Islamic State, Khalid was victorious in over a hundred battles, against the forces of the Byzantine-Roman Empire, Sassanid-Persian Empire, and their allies, in addition to other Arab tribes. His strategic achievements include the conquest of Arabia, Persian Mesopotamia and Roman Syria within several years from 632 to 636. He is also remembered for his decisive victories at Yamamah, Ullais, and Firaz, and his tactical successes at Walaja and Yarmouk. Khalid ibn al-Walid was from the Meccan tribe of Quraysh, from a clan that initially opposed Muhammad. He played a vital role in the Meccan victory at the Battle of Uhud against the Muslims. He converted to Islam, and joined Muhammad after the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and participated in various expeditions for him, such as the Battle of Mu'tah. It was the first battle between the Romans and the Muslims. Khalid ibn Al-Walid reported that the fighting was so intense, that he used nine swords, which broke in the battle. Khalid took over after Zayd ibn Haritha, then Jafar ibn Abi Talib, then Abdullah ibn Rawahah were killed. After Muhammad's death, he played a key role in commanding Medinan forces for Abu Bakr in the Ridda wars, conquering central Arabia and subduing Arab tribes. He captured the Sassanid Arab client Kingdom of Al-Hirah, and defeated the Sassanid Persian forces during his conquest of Iraq. He was later transferred to the western front to capture Roman Syria and the Byzantine Arab client state of the Ghassanids.

Uthman ibn Affan

Noble person

Uthman ibn Affan was one of the companions of Islamic prophet, Muhammad. He played a major role in early Islamic history as the third leader of the Rashidun Caliphate. Uthman was born into the Umayyad clan of Mecca, a powerful family of the Quraish tribe. He was a companion of Muhammad who assumed the role of leader of the Muslim Empire at the age of 65 following Umar ibn al-Khattab. Under his leadership, the empire expanded into Fars in 650, some areas of Khorasan in 651 and the conquest of Armenia was begun in the 640s. Some of Uthman's notable achievements were the economic reforms he introduced, and the compilation of the Qur'an into the unified, authoritative text that is known today.

Muawiyah I

Military Commander

Muawiyah I established the Umayyad Dynasty of the caliphate, and was the second caliph from the Umayyad clan. Muawiyah became a secretary for Muhammad, and during the first and second caliphates of Abu Bakr and Umar, fought with the Muslims against the Byzantines in Syria. Muawiyah was politically adept in dealing with the Eastern Roman Empire and was therefore made into a secretary by Muhammad. To stop the Byzantine harassment from the sea, Muawiyah developed a navy in the Levant and used it to confront the Byzantine Empire in the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara. The Caliphate conquered several territories including Cyzicus which were subsequently used as naval bases.

Aisha bint Abu Bakr

Woman

‘Ā’ishah bint Abī Bakr was one of Muḥammad's wives. In Islamic writings, her name is thus often prefixed by the title "Mother of the Believers", per the description of Muhammad's wives in the Qur'an. Traditional sources state that Aisha was married to Muhammad at the age of six, but she stayed in her parents' home until the age of nine, when the marriage was consummated with Muhammad, then 53, in Medina; with the exception of al-Tabari who records that she was ten years old. According to Sunni views, Aisha had an important role in early Islamic history, both during Muhammad's life and after his death. She was an active figure in numerous events and an important witness to many more. Aisha contributed to the growth, development, and understanding of Islam. Being a role model to a significant amount of others added to her attributions as a consultant regarding Muhammad's prayer and practices, soon introducing herself into a world of politics. After Muhammad, Aisha was readily involved in continuing his message. She was present through the reigns of at least the first four caliphs. Her father, Abu Bakr, became the first caliph to succeed Muhammad. The second caliph ‘Umar succeeded Abū Bakr. During the time of the third caliph's reign Aisha rebelled. She did not fully approve of ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan's practices on many occasions. During the fourth caliph's reign she wanted to avenge Uthman's death, which she attempted to do in the Battle of the Camel. She participated in the battle by giving speeches and leading troops on the back of her camel. She ended up losing the battle, but her involvement and determination left a lasting impression.

Al-Waleed bin Talal

Businessperson

Al Waleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz al Saud is a Saudi Arabian businessman and investor. He is a member of the Saudi royal family. He is the founder, CEO, and 95%-owner of the Kingdom Holding Company. Arabian Business ranked him as the most influential Arab in the world. In March 2013, Forbes listed Al Waleed as the 26th-richest man in the world, with an estimated net worth of US $20 Billion. Prince al Waleed disputes the Forbes valuation, and believes his wealth to be $26 billion.

Ibn Saud

Monarch

King Abdulaziz was the first monarch of Saudi Arabia, the third Saudi State. He was referred to for most of his career as Ibn Saud. Beginning with the reconquest of his family's ancestral home city of Riyadh in 1902, he consolidated his control over the Najd in 1922, then conquered the Hijaz in 1925. Having conquered almost all of central Arabia, he united his dominions into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. As King, he presided over the discovery of petroleum in Saudi Arabia in 1938 and the beginning of large-scale oil exploitation after World War II. He was the father of many children having 45 sons, including all of the subsequent kings of Saudi Arabia.

Fatima bint Muhammad

Deceased Person

Fatimah was a daughter of prophet Muhammad and Khadijah, wife of Ali and mother of Hasan and Hussein, and one of the five members of Ahl al-Bayt. She became the object of great veneration by all Muslims, because she lived closest to her father and supported him in his difficulties, because of the historical importance of her husband and her two sons, and because she is the only member of Prophet Muhammad's family that gave him descendants, numerously spread through the Islamic world. For Muslims, Fatimah is an inspiring example and Fatimah is one of the most popular girl's names throughout the Muslim world. She was involved in three significant political actions, each recorded in almost all sources. First, after the conquest of Mecca, she refused her protection to Abu Sufian; Second, after Muhammad's death, she courageously defended Ali’s cause, fiercely opposed the election of Abu Bakr, and had violent disputes with him and particularly with Umar; Third, she laid claim to the property rights of her father and challenged Abu Bakr’s categorical refusal to cede them, particularly Fadak and a share in the produce of Khaybar.

Faisal of Saudi Arabia

Monarch

Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was King of Saudi Arabia from 1964 to 1975. As king, he is credited with rescuing the country's finances and implementing a policy of modernization and reform, while his main foreign policy themes were pan-Islamism, anti-Communism, and pro-Palestinian nationalism. He successfully stabilized the kingdom's bureaucracy and his reign had significant popularity among Saudis. In 1975, he was assassinated by his nephew Faisal bin Musaid.

Fahd of Saudi Arabia

Monarch

Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, was the King of Saudi Arabia from 1982 to 2005.

Ali ibn Husayn Zayn al-Abidin

Religious Leader

Ali ibn Husayn known by the honorific Zayn al-Abedin, occupies a prominent position in Islam. He is also referred to as Imam al-Sajjad and Sayyid as-Sajjadīn wa Raki‘in. A great-grandson of Muhammad, he embodied the same virtues as his great-grandfather such as knowledge, eloquence, courage, generosity, and forbearance. Imam Ali was the son of Imam Husayn and Shahrbanu, the daughter of Yazdogerd. Shias recognize him as the 4th Imam and one of the divinely chosen successor to Muhammad. A member of the Ahl al-Bayt, Imam Ali ibn Husayn devoted his life to teach people about various subjects by splitting the fountain of knowledge and wisdom. He is known for starting the re-establishment of the school of the Muhammad in Medina. And is seen as highly influential figure and revered by millions around the globe.

Hasan ibn Ali

Religious Leader

Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib is an important figure in Islam. He is the son of Ali and his wife Fatimah. The latter is the daughter of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. After his father's death, he briefly succeeded him as the righteous Caliph, before retiring to Madinah and entering into an agreement with the first Umayyad ruler, Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan, who assumed the Caliphate. Both Sunni and Shia Muslims regard Hasan as a martyr. Hasan is one of the five people of the Ahl al-Kisa, as well as a member of the Ahl al-Bayt. Hasan ibn Ali is 2nd Imam of Shia Islam. Hasan is also highly respected by the Sunni as the grandson of Muhammad.

Bobby Rahal

Racing driver

Robert "Bobby" Woodward Rahal is an American auto racing driver and team owner. As a driver, he won three championships and 24 races in the CART open-wheel series, including the 1986 Indianapolis 500. He also won the 2004 Indianapolis 500 as a team owner for the winning driver, Buddy Rice. After retiring as a driver, Rahal held managerial positions with the Jaguar Formula 1 team and also was an interim president of the CART series. Rahal was also a sports car driver during the 1980s, and made one NASCAR start for the Wood Brothers.

Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab

Author

Muhammad ibn ʿAbd al-Wahhab was an Arabian Islamic Salafi scholar. His pact with Muhammad bin Saud helped to establish the first Saudi state and began a dynastic alliance and power-sharing arrangement between their families which continues to the present day. The descendants of Ibn ʿAbd al-Wahhab, the Al ash-Sheikh, have historically led the ulama in the Saudi state, dominating the state's clerical institutions.

Bandar bin Sultan

Politician

Bandar bin Sultan is a member of the House of Saud and was Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United States from 1983 to 2005. In 2005, he was named as secretary general of the National Security Council. He was appointed director general of the Saudi Intelligence Agency by King Abdullah on 19 July 2012.

Abul Kalam Azad

Politician

Abul Kalam Muhiyuddin Ahmed Azad was an Indian scholar and a senior political leader of the Indian independence movement. Following India's independence, he became the first Minister of Education in the Indian government. In 1992 he was posthumously awarded India's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna. He is commonly remembered as Maulana Azad; the word Maulana is an honorific meaning 'learned man', and he had adopted Azad as his pen name. His contribution to establishing the education foundation in India is recognised by celebrating his birthday as "National Education Day" across India. As a young man, Azad composed poetry in Urdu language, as well as treatises on religion and philosophy. He rose to prominence through his work as a journalist, publishing works critical of the British Raj and espousing the causes of Indian nationalism. Azad became the leader of the Khilafat Movement, during which he came into close contact with the Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi. Azad became an enthusiastic supporter of Gandhi's ideas of non-violent civil disobedience, and worked to organise the non-co-operation movement in protest of the 1919 Rowlatt Acts. Azad committed himself to Gandhi's ideals, including promoting Swadeshi products and the cause of Swaraj for India. In 1923, at an age of 35, he became the youngest person to serve as the President of the Indian National Congress.

Umar II

Noble person

Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz was an Umayyad caliph who ruled from 717 to 720. He was also a cousin of the former caliph, being the son of Abd al-Malik's younger brother, Abd al-Aziz. He was also a great-grandson of the Great Caliph and companion of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad, Umar ibn Al-Khattab.

Faisal I of Iraq

Monarch

Faisal bin Hussein bin Ali al-Hashimi, was King of the Arab Kingdom of Syria or Greater Syria in 1920, and was King of Iraq from 23 August 1921 to 1933. He was a member of the Hashemite dynasty. Faisal fostered unity between Sunni and Shiite Muslims to encourage common loyalty and promote pan-Arabism in the goal of creating an Arab state that would include Iraq, Syria and the rest of the Fertile Crescent. While in power, Faisal tried to diversify his administration by including different ethnic and religious groups in offices. He faced great challenges in achieving this because the region was under European - specifically French and British - control and other Arab leaders of the time were hostile to his ideas as they pursued their own political aspirations for power. In addition, Faisal’s attempt at pan-Arab nationalism may have contributed to the isolation of certain religious groups.

Malik ibn Anas

Man

Mālik ibn Anas ibn Mālik ibn Abī 'Āmir al-Asbahī is known as "Imam Malik," the "Sheikh of Islam", the "Proof of the Community," and "Imam of the Abode of Emigration." He was one of the most highly respected scholars of fiqh in Sunni Islam. Shafi`i, who was one of Malik's students for nine years and a scholarly giant in his own right, stated, "when scholars are mentioned, Malik is the star." The Maliki Madhab, named after Malik, is one of the four schools of jurisprudence that are followed by Sunni Muslims to this day.

Sultan bin Abdulaziz

Politician

Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, called Sultan al-Khair in Saudi Arabia was the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia from 2005 to 2011.

Ali al-Ridha

Man

‘Alī ibn Mūsā al-Riḍhā was the seventh descendant of the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the eighth of the Twelve Imams, according to Shia sect of Islam as well as an Imam of knowledge according to the Zaydi Shia school and Sufis. His given name was ‘Alī ibn Mūsā ibn Ja‘far.

Al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf

Politician

Al-Hajjaj ibn Yusuf was a controversial Arab administrator, politician and minister of defence of the Umayyad caliphate. Al-Hajjaj was an intelligent and tough ruler. He has also been described as draconian, although modern historical treatments acknowledge the influence of later Abbasid historians and biographers who were opposed to the fiercely loyal and pro-Umayyad al-Hajjaj. Al-Hajjaj bin Yousef played a crucial role in the selection of military commanders. He instilled discipline in the soldier ranks which led to the successful expansion of the Islamic empire to its farthest extent. He ensured all important records were translated into Arabic, and for the first time he convinced caliph Abd Al-Malik to adopt a special currency for the Muslim world. This led to war with the Byzantine Empire under Justinian II. The Byzantines were led by Leontios at the Battle of Sebastopolis in 692 and were decisively defeated.

Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais

Imam

Abdul Rahman Ibn Abdul Aziz as-Sudais is the imam of the Grand mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and the "Islamic Personality Of the Year" 2005. He has also called for peaceful inter-faith dialogue. In some of his sermons, al-Sudais has vilified non-Muslims and has called for the annihilation of Jews. The Muslim Council of Britain, which has hosted Al Sudais, responded to some of these accusations, declaring them as being a part of a "witch-hunt" and charging that his words were "deliberately garbled". BBC editor Mike Robinson subsequently rejected the MCB's claims, while accusing them of “unwarranted and wildly inaccurate attacks” and “bad faith allegations." Al-Sudais has called for efforts to combat terrorism, discussed ways to combat terrorism, and has preached Islam's opposition to "explosions and terrorism". He actively speaks out against what he believes to be the persecution of Palestinians by Israeli settlers and the state of Israel, and has pleaded for medical supplies and food to be sent to the Palestinians.

Sami Al-Jaber

Soccer

Sami Abdullah Al-Jaber is a retired football striker from Saudi Arabia. He spent the majority of his career from 1988 to 2008 with Al-Hilal, of whom has been manager since 2013. He is his country's second highest international goalscorer with 43 in 163 internationals from 1992 to 2006. Al-Jaber appeared in four consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments, from 1994 to 2006, scoring in three of them. He was also a member of the Saudi squads which won the AFC Asian Cup in 1996 and 2000.

Abd al-Aziz ibn Baz

Radio personality

Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah bin Baz, was a Saudi Arabian Islamic scholar and a leading proponent of the Salafi form of Islam. He was the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia from 1993 until his death in 1999. Ibn Baz's views and rulings were sometimes controversial, particularly those relating to cosmology, women's rights, the acceptability of stationing foreign troops in Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War and in relation to Osama bin Ladin.

Omar Abdulrahman

Soccer Midfielder

Omar Abdul Rahman Ahmed Al Raaki Al Amoodi commonly known as Amoory, is an Emirati footballer. He plays as a Winger and Attacking midfielder for Al-Ain, and the UAE national football team. ESPN FC ranked Omar #1 in the Top ten Asian players of 2012. In 2013, Omar was listed by FIFA in the most promising future stars in Asia. Omar was ranked thirty-nine on the Goal 50 list for the best 50 players of the season 2012-13. Omar started his career when he went on a trial with Al Hilal in 2000. He joined Al Ain in 2007 at the age of 15. In the 2008–09 season he was promoted to first-team squad, made his debut in 2009 and won his first senior honours Etisalat Cup and President's Cup, 2009 Super Cup. Despite suffering a cruciate ligament injury in the following season and sidelined for more than six months, he became a first team regular and helped his club to avoid relegation in 2010–11. He finished the season with 11 goals in 29 appearances and was voted the most promising player of the Year. In 2011–12, Omar suffered again the same injury and was out for six months, he returned from the injury and his club crowned the league. After a two weeks trial with Manchester City, he back to Al Ain to became a key player in a 2012–13 season and was voted Emirati Player of the Year, the Fans’ Player of the Year and the Young Arab Player of the Year in 2013 as his side achieved the 2012 Super Cup, league. In which he also scored 8 goals and assists 16 in 31 games.

Yasser Al-Qahtani

Soccer

Yasser Saeed Al-Qahtani is a Saudi Arabian footballer who plays as a striker currently plays for Al-Hilal FC in Saudi Professional League. He was also captain of the Saudi Arabian national team. In 2005, he moving to Al-Hilal for a for 23 million Saudi riyal.

Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan

Noble person

Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, was the 5th Umayyad Caliph. He was born in Medina, Hejaz. `Abd al-Malik was a well-educated man and capable ruler, despite the many political problems that impeded his rule. 14th century Muslim historian Ibn Khaldun states: "`Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan is one of the greatest Arab and Muslim Caliphs. He followed in the footsteps of `Umar ibn al-Khattab, the Commander of the Believers, in regulating state affairs". In his reign, all important records were translated into Arabic, and for the first time a special currency for the Muslim world was minted, which led to war with the Byzantine Empire under Justinian II. The Byzantines were led by Leontios at the Battle of Sebastopolis in 692 in Asia Minor and were decisively defeated by the Caliph after the defection of a large contingent of Slavs. The Islamic currency was then made the only currency exchange in the Muslim world. Also, many reforms happened in his time as regards agriculture and commerce. `Abd al-Malik consolidated Muslim rule and extended it, made Arabic the state language, and organized a regular postal service.

Nayef bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud

Politician

Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, also spelled Naif, was the Crown prince of Saudi Arabia as well as first deputy prime minister from 2011 to 2012. He was also minister of interior from 1975 to 2012.

Abdullah I of Jordan

Monarch

Abdullah I bin al-Hussein, King of Jordan [‘Abd Allāh ibn al-Husayn] عبد الله الأول بن الحسين born in Mecca, Hejaz, Ottoman Empire, was the second of three sons of Sherif Hussein bin Ali, Sharif and Emir of Mecca and his first wife Abdiyya bint Abdullah. He was educated in Istanbul, Turkey and Hijaz. From 1909 to 1914, Abdullah sat in the Ottoman legislature, as deputy for Mecca, but allied with Britain during World War I. Between 1916 to 1918, working with the British guerrilla leader T. E. Lawrence, he played a key role as architect and planner of the Great Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule, leading guerrilla raids on garrisons. He was the ruler of Transjordan and its successor state, Jordan, from 1921 to 1951—first as Emir under a British Mandate from 1921 to 1946, then as King of an independent nation from 1946 until his assassination.

Muhammad bin Qasim

Military Person

Muhammad bin Qasim Al-Thaqafi was an Umayyad general who conquered the Sindh and Punjab regions along the Indus River for the Umayyad Caliphate. He was born and raised in the city of Taif. Qasim's conquest of Sindh and Punjab enabled further Islamic expansion into India. A member of the Thaqeef tribe of the Ta'if region, Muhammad bin Qasim's father was Qasim bin Yusuf who died when Muhammad bin Qasim was young, leaving his mother in charge of his education. Umayyad governor Al-Hajjaj Ibn Yusuf Al-Thaqafi, Muhammad bin Qasim's paternal uncle, was instrumental in teaching Muhammad bin Qasim about warfare and governance. Muhammad bin Qasim married his cousin Zubaidah, Hajjaj's daughter, shortly before going to Sindh. Another paternal uncle of Muhammad bin Qasim was Muhammad bin Yusuf, governor of Yemen. Under Hajjaj's patronage, Muhammad bin Qasim was made governor of Persia, where he succeeded in putting down a rebellion. Due to his close relationship with Hajjaj, Bin Qasim was executed after the accession of Caliph Sulayman ibn Abd al-Malik.

Musa al-Kadhim

Imam

Musa ibn Ja‘far al-Kadhim was the seventh of the Twelve Imams and regarded by Sunnis as a renowned scholar. He was the son of the sixth Imam, Ja‘far aṣ-Ṣādiq and his mother was Hamidah Khātūn, a student and former slave of East African descent. His wife Najmah was also a former slave purchased and freed by Hamidah, his mother. Mūsá al-Kādhim was born during the power struggles between the Umayyad and the Abbasid. Like his father, he was assassinated by the Abbasids. He bore three notable children: the eighth Imām, Ali al-Ridha, and two daughters, Fāṭimah al-Ma‘sūmah and Hajar Khatun. In total from all his wives he bore 37 children, 19 daughters and 18 sons. This is why most of the Sayyid population are Kādhimī Sayyids, or otherwise known as Mūsawī Sayyids, and trace their lineage back to the Prophet Muhammad, through one of Imam Musa al-Kadhim's children who were not his successor, Imam Ali Al-Ridha. The Festival of Imam Musa al-Kadhim celebrates his life and death.

Khalid of Saudi Arabia

Monarch

Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was the King of Saudi Arabia from 1975 to 1982, being the fourth ruler of the country. His period saw both huge developments in the country due to increase in oil revenues and significant events in the Middle East.

Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

Politician

Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Vice Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, is the Crown Prince, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Saudi Arabia. He is a member of the House of Saud.

Bilal ibn Rabah al-Habashi

Man

Bilal ibn Rabah Arabic: بلال بن رباح‎ also known as Bilal al-Habashi, Bilal ibn Riyah, and ibn Rabah was one of the most trusted and loyal Sahabah of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He was born in Mecca and is considered as the first muezzin, chosen by Muhammad himself. Born as a slave of Abyssinian decent, Bilal was among the emancipated slaves freed by Abu Bakr due to the Islamic teachings of slavery. He was known for his beautiful voice with which he called people to their prayers. He died sometime between 638 to 642, when he was just over sixty years old. Bilal ibn Rabah, rose to a position of prominence in Islam. His respected stature during the birth of Islam is often cited by Muslims as evidence of the importance of pluralism and racial equality in the foundations of the religion.

Abu Sufyan ibn Harb

Military Person

Sakhr ibn Harb, more commonly known as Abu Sufyan, was the leader of the Quraish tribe of Mecca. He was a staunch opponent of the Islamic prophet Muhammad before accepting Islam and becoming a Muslim warrior later in his life. His mother, Safia, is the paternal aunt of Maymuna bint al-Harith.

Abd Allah ibn Abbas

Military Person

Abd Allah ibn Abbas was a paternal cousin of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He is revered by Muslims for his knowledge and was an expert in Tafsir, as well as an authority on the Islamic Sunnah.

Adnan Khashoggi

Businessperson

Adnan Khashoggi is a Saudi Arabian businessman. He is also noted for his participation in high society in both the Western and Arabic-speaking worlds, and for his involvement in the Iran–Contra and Lockheed bribery scandals. At a peak net worth of up to $40 billion USD in the early 1980s, he was considered one of the richest men in the world.

Hamza ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib

Politician

Hamza ibn ‘Abdul-Muttalib was a companion and paternal uncle of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. His kunyas were Abu Umara and Abu Yaala. He had the by-names Lion of God and the Lion of Paradise, and Muhammad gave him the posthumous title Sayyid-ush-Shuhda.

Abd Allah ibn al-Zubayr

Man

`Abd Allah al-Zubayr or ibn Zubayr was an Arab sahabi whose father was Zubayr ibn al-Awwam, and whose mother was Asma bint Abi Bakr, daughter of the first Caliph Abu Bakr. He was the nephew of Aisha, third wife of the Islamic prophet, Muhammad. Abd-Allah ibn al-Zubayr was the first Muslim to be born in Madinah after the hijrah. He was the most prominent representative of the Muslim nobility. Abd Allah ibn al-Zubayr was the cousin of Qasim ibn Muhammad ibn Abu Bakr. Qasim ibn Muhammad ibn Abu Bakr was the grandfather of Jafar al-Sadiq. Ibn 'Abbas said about him: "his grandfather, Abu Bakr was companion in the cave, his mother, Asma' was 'Dhatun-Nitaq', his aunt, 'Aisha was the mother of the Believers, his paternal aunt, Khadija was the wife of the Prophet, and the paternal aunt of the Prophet was his grandmother. He himself is pious and chaste in Islam, well versed in the Knowledge of the Quran"

Ibn al-Khattab

Warlord

Thamir Saleh Abdullah Al-Suwailem, more commonly known as Emir Khattab meaning Commander Khattab, or Leader Khattab, and also known as Habib Abdul Rahman, was working with Chechen Mujahideen in the First Chechen War and the Second Chechen War. The origins and real identity of Khattab remained a mystery to most until after his death, when his brother gave an interview to the press. He died on 20 March 2002 following exposure to a poison letter delivered via a courier that had been recruited by Russia's FSB.

Saad Hariri

Politician

Saad-eddine Rafiq Al-Hariri is a Saudi-Lebanese billionaire who served as the Prime Minister of Lebanon from 2009 until 2011. He is the second son of Rafiq Hariri, the former Lebanese Prime Minister who was assassinated in 2005. Hariri was prime minister from 9 November 2009 until the collapse of his cabinet on 12 January 2011 and has also been the leader of the Movement of the Future party since 2005. He is seen as a "weak figurehead" of the March 14 movement.

Lucien Soulban

Author

Lucien Soulban is a BAFTA award winning video game designer.

Homaidan Al-Turki

Man

Homaidan Ali Al-Turki is a Saudi national convicted in a Colorado court for sexually assaulting his Indonesian housekeeper and keeping her as a virtual slave for four years. On August 31, 2006, Al-Turki was sentenced to 28 years in prison on twelve felony counts of false imprisonment, unlawful sexual contact, theft and criminal extortion. Despite the allegations, Al-Turki has consistently denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the fraudulent charges resulted from a government conspiracy, cultural differences or "cynical Islamophobia" and rising anti-Muslim sentiment in the United States. In February 25, 2011, He was re-sentenced from 28 to eight years for his good behavior in prison. Al-Turki maintains his innocence and blames anti-Muslim sentiment for the charges that led to his 2006 conviction and sentence in a case that has strained relations between the U.S. and the Saudi government.

Muhammad ibn al Uthaymeen

Teacher

Sheikh Abu 'Abd Allah Muhammad ibn Saalih ibn Muhammad ibn al-Uthaymeen at-Tamimi was one of the most prominent Sunni Muslim Islamic scholars of the latter half of the twentieth century. Along with Abd al-Aziz ibn Baz, he was considered one of the two leading representatives of the conservative Saudi Arabian religious establishment.

Khalid bin Sultan

Soldier

Khaled bin Sultan is the former deputy minister of defense and a member of House of Saud.

Hasan of Basra

Theologian

Hasan Al-Basri, was a well-known Sunni Muslim preacher, theologian, and scholar of Islam who was born in 642 from Persian parents. Brought up in the house of Umm Salama, Hasan met many companions of Muhammad including, it is said, seventy of the warriors who fought in the Battle of Badr. Hasan grew up to become one of the most prominent figures of his generation, being famous for his piety and condemnation of worldliness. When he died on Friday 5th of Rajab 110 AH, at the age of 89, the entire population of Basra attended his funeral, so that the first time in history of Basra the Jami Masjid of the city remained empty at the hour of the Asr prayer. Hasan quickly became an exemplar for other saints in the area and his personality made a deep impression upon his contemporaries.

Sa`d ibn Abi Waqqas

Military Person

Saad ibn Abī Waqqās was an early convert to Islam in 610-11 and one of the important companions of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Sa'd was the seventeenth person to embrace Islam at the age of seventeen. He is mainly known for his commandership in the conquest of Persia in 636, governorship over it, and diplomatic sojourns to China in 616 and 651.

Sulaiman Abdul Aziz Al Rajhi

Banker

Sheikh Sulaiman bin Abdul-Aziz Al-Rajhi is a Saudi Arabian corporate figure and billionaire. He is the chairman of Al Rajhi Bank, one of the largest companies in Saudi Arabia and the largest Islamic bank in the world. As of 2011, his wealth was estimated by Forbes to be $7.7 billion, making him the 120th richest person in the world. He received the 2012 King Faisal International Prize for dedicating half his fortune to charity, starting an Islamic bank, supporting charity work and implementing effective national projects.

Al-Abbas ibn Ali

Deceased Person

Al-‘Abbās ibn ‘Ali was the son of ‘Alī ibn Abī Tālib and Fātimah bint Hizam al-Kilabiyyah. Al-‘Abbās is revered by Shia Muslims for his loyalty to his half-brother Husayn ibn ‘Alī, his respect for the Ahl al-Bayt, and his role in the Battle of Karbalā.

Naif Hazazi

Soccer

Naif Hazazi, also nicknamed El Saqr - means The Falcon, is a Saudi Arabian footballer, who plays for Al-Shabab and the Saudi national team as a striker. He was named in the 2012 Asian Squad.

Abu Talib ibn Abdul Muttalib

Man

Abu Talib ibn Abdul Muttalib was the leader of the Banu Hashim, a clan of the Quraysh tribe of Mecca in Arabia. After the death of ‘Abd al-Muttalib he inherited this position and the offices of siqaya and rifada. He was well respected in Mecca despite declining fortune. Abu Talib was an uncle of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He is famous for this close connection to the Prophet and his protection of Muhammad.

Mohammed Noor

Soccer Midfielder

Mohammed Noor Hawsawi, commonly known as Mohammed Noor, also known by his shirt name Noor, is a footballer from Saudi Arabia. He currently plays for Saudi Professional League side Al-Nassr.

Abū Lahab

Man

Abū Lahab was Muḥammad's paternal uncle. Because of his open opposition to Islam, he is condemned by name in the Quran in sura al-Masad.

Majed Abdullah

Soccer

Majed Ahmed Abdullah Al-Mohammed ‎ is a former Saudi Arabian football striker, the all-time goals leader for the Saudi national team. He was nicknamed Arabian Pelé. Abdullah was voted as the best football player in the history of Saudi Arabia in a poll by IBOPE Zogby International.

Wang Yeu-tzuoo

Tennis Player

Wang Yeu-tzuoo, who also goes by Jimmy Wang, is a professional tennis player from Taiwan. Until the emergence of Lu Yen-Hsun, Wang was the highest ranked player from Taiwan. The right-hander stands 5 feet 10 inches and weighs 141 pounds. Wang's trademark look is his wearing a white baseball cap backwards.

Sultan bin Salman Al Saud

Astronaut

Sultan bin Salman is a former Royal Saudi Air Force pilot who flew aboard the STS-51-G Space Shuttle mission as a payload specialist, and a member of the House of Saud. He is thus the first astronaut of royal blood, and the first Arab and Muslim to fly in outer space.

Khalid ibn Abdullah

Animal owner

Khalid bin Abdullah Al Saud is a member of the House of Saud. He has extensive business interests through Mawarid Holding and as the owner of Juddmonte Farms is one of the leading figures in the world of thoroughbred horseracing. The many outstanding horses to have been ridden in Prince Khalid's colours include the great Dancing Brave and Frankel.

Ali al-Hadi

Man

‘Alī al-Hādī, also known as ‘Alī an-Naqī was the tenth of the Twelve Imams. His full name is ‘Alī ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Alī. The exact date of his birth and death are unknown, but it is generally accepted that he was born between 827–830 CE and he died in 868 CE.

Zubayr ibn al-Awam

Military Person

Az-Zubayr ibn Al-Awam was a companion of Muhammad and a commander in the Rashidun army.

Muhammad al-Baqir

Religious Leader

Muḥammad ibn ‘Alī al-Bāqir was the Fifth Imām to the Twelver Shi‘a and Fourth Imām to the Ismā‘īlī Shī‘a. His father was the previous Imām, ‘Alī ibn Ḥusayn, and his mother was Fatimah bint al-Hasan. He is revered by Shi'a Muslims for his religious leadership and highly respected by Sunni Muslims for his knowledge and Islamic scholarship as a leading jurist of Madinah, the City of the Prophet.

Mukhtar al-Thaqafi

Man

al-Mukhtār ibn Abī ‘Ubayd Allah al-Thaqafī, 622-687 CE, was a controversial early Islamic revolutionary based in Kufa, Iraq who led an abortive rebellion against the Umayyad Caliphs in vengeance for the death of Husayn ibn 'Ali at the Battle of Karbala and the expulsion of Ibn Al-Zubayr's governor in Kufa. Al-Mukhtar declared that Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyyah, a son of 'Ali born from a marriage after the passing of Fatima, was the rightful caliph. Al-Mukhtar was defeated by Ibn al-Zubair's brother and commander Mus'ad Ibn Al-Zubayr and killed.

Talal Maddah

Arab Artist

Talal Maddah was a well-known Saudi musician and composer. He was named Maddah after his mother's family. His fans coined him the nickname the Earth's voice, and he is also known as "The Golden Throat". His artistic excellence won him an immense influence over 20th century-Arabian culture.

Zaynab bint Ali

Deceased Person

Zaynab bint Ali was one of the daughters of the Rashid Caliph and first Shi'i Imam, Ali and his first wife Fatima. The Prophet Muhammad was her maternal grandfather and thus she is a member of ahl al-bayt and is therefore often revered not only for her admirable characteristics and actions but also for her membership in and continuation of the biological line of the Prophet. Like other members of her family she became a great figure of sacrifice, strength, and piety in Islam – particularly in the Shi’a sect of the religion.

Ibn Ishaq

Author

Muḥammad ibn Isḥāq ibn Yasār ibn Khiyār was an Arab Muslim historian and hagiographer. Ibn Ishaq collected oral traditions that formed the basis of an important biography of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

Maher Al Mueaqly

Preacher

Maher bin Hamad Al Mueaqly born January 7, 1969, is the Imam of the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia and a renowned Recitor of the Holy Quran.

Jarir ibn Atiyah

Poet

Jarir ibn `Atiyah al-Khatfi Al-Tamimi was an Arab poet and satirist. He was born in the reign of the caliph Othman, and was a member of the tribe Kulaib, a part of the Banu Tamim. He was a native of al-Yamamah, but also spent time in Damascus at the court of the Umayyad caliphs. Little is known of his early life, but he succeeded in winning the favor of Al-Hajjaj bin Yousef, the governor of Iraq. Already famous for his verse, he became more widely known by his feud with rival poets Farazdaq and Akhtal. Later he went to Damascus and visited the court of the caliph Abd al-Malik and that of his successor, Al-Walid I. From neither of these did he receive a warm welcome. He was, however, more successful with Umar II, and was the only poet received by the pious caliph. His verse, like that of his contemporaries, is largely satire and eulogy.

Khalid Abdulrahman

Arab Artist

Khalid Abdulrahman AdDosari is a Saudi singer, musician, and songwriter. He is nicknamed "makhawi al-layl" which means the friend of night. He regarded the night as his close friend because he used to stay up late writing poems in the night silence. He is one of the region’s most popular vocalists alongside Mohammed Abdu, Abdul Majid Abdullah and Rashed Al-Majed. Unlike most singers, he gained fame from his first album, sarihini, which was the beginning of a series of successful albums. He gained a large number of fans in a short period of time. So, he successfully competed with popular singers in the Arab world. He got a number of nicknames like mulek alfun, and al-general. He started singing in 1987. Some of his top songs are ahat, sarihini, sudiqini, khuberooh, tedhkar, and al-ata. He released his last album Rouh Rouhey in 2008. It contains 8 songs.

Ammar ibn Yasir

Military Person

ʻAmmār ibn Yāsir ibn ʿĀmir ibn Mālik Abū al-Yaqẓān was one of the most loyal companion of the Prophet Muhammad and Imam Ali. He occupies a position of prominence in Islam. During the time of Prophet Muhammad, Ammar converted to Islam. As a convert to Islam, Ammar sought to purify his soul and increase his awareness of Allah. He scarified and contributed a lot for the religion. Seen as one of the Muhajirun, Ammar followed the teaching of Prophet Muhammad. He is also referred to as by Shia Muslims as one of the Four Companions. However, Ammar is known for his humble and poise nature. A brave man of his time, Ammar served Prophet Muhammad and Ali ibn Abi-Talib to the best of his abilities.

Abdur Rahman bin Awf

Man

Abdur Rahman bin Awf, was one of the Sahaba.

Muhammad Al-Arifi

Preacher

Melora Walters

Actor

Melora Walters is an American actress.

Habib Ali al-Jifri

Author

Habib Ali Zain al-`Abideen al-Jifri is an Islamic scholar and spiritual educator from Hadhramaut, Yemen. He is the founder of Tabah Foundation, a research institute based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Abdullah ibn Umar

Man

Abdullah ibn Umar was the son of the second Caliph Umar ibn Khattab. He was a prominent authority in hadith and law, and was known for his neutrality toward factions engaged in the first civil war within the Muslim community.

Abdul Muttalib

Man

Shaybah ibn Hāshim, better known as 'Abdul Muṭṭalib or 'Abd al-Muṭṭalib, since he was raised by his uncle Muṭṭalib, was the grandfather of Islamic prophet Muḥammad.

Lisa Eilbacher

Actor

Lisa Eilbacher is an American television and motion picture actress.

Zayd ibn Ali

Man

Zayd ibn ‘Alī was the grandson of Husayn ibn Alī, the grandson of Muhammad. Zayd was born in Medina in 695. He is the son of Imam ‘Alī ibn Husayn "Zayn al-Abidīn".

Muhammad al-Jawad

Man

Muhammad al-Jawād or Muhammad at-Taqī was the ninth of the Twelve Imams of Twelver Shi'ism. His given name was Muhammad ibn ‘Alī ibn Mūsā, and among his titles, al-Taqī and al-Jawād are the most renowned. Muhammad al-Taqī was the shortest-lived of the Twelve Imāms, dying at the age of 25. Quotations related to Muhammad al-Taqī al-Jawād at Wikiquote

Shaker Aamer

Man

Shaker Aamer is a Saudi Arabian citizen and the last British resident held by the United States in the Guantanamo Bay detention camps in Cuba. He was arrested in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, on 24 November 2001 and was rendered to Guantánamo on 14 February 2002, where he has now been held for 11 years, 8 months, and 23 days without trial or charge. According to documents published in the Guantanamo Bay files leak, the US military Joint Task Force Guantanamo believed in November 2007 that Aamer had led a unit of fighters in Afghanistan, including the Battle of Tora Bora, while his family was paid a stipend by Osama bin Laden. The file asserts past associations with Richard Reid and Zacarias Moussaoui. Clive Stafford Smith, a human rights lawyer, said the leaked documents would not stand up in court. He claimed that part of the evidence comes from an unreliable witness and that confessions Aamer made had been obtained through torture. Aamer’s father-in-law, Saaed Ahmed Siddique, said: "All of these claims have no basis. If any of this was true he would be in a court now." The Bush administration acknowledged later that it had no evidence against Aamer.

Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud

Politician

Khalid Al Faisal Al Saud is the governor of the Makkah Province and a member of the House of Saud.

Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi

Soccer Defender

Mohammed Saleh Al-Khilaiwi was a football defender from Saudi Arabia. Arguably, the best Saudi defender that ever played football. At the club level, he played mostly for Al-Ittihad in his home country.

Nasser Al-Shamrani

Soccer

Nasser Al-Shamrani is a Saudi Arabian footballer who plays for the Al-Hilal. Nasser, a forward, moved to Al-Shabab during the beginning of the 2007–08 season from Al-Wehda. He was then Al-Shabab's main striker, and is nicknamed 'the Earthquake' by Al-Shabab fans.

Muqrin bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

Politician

Muqrin bin Abdulaziz is a member of House of Saud and was director general of Al Mukhabarat Al A'amah from 2005 to 2012. In July 2012, Prince Muqrin was appointed King Abdullah's advisor and special envoy with the rank of minister. On 1 February 2013, King Abdullah named him as second deputy prime minister, being the fifth Saudi royal to hold this position. This post is formerly held by late King Fahd, King Abdullah, late Crown Prince Sultan, and late Crown Prince Nayef.

Uqba ibn Nafi

Military officer

Uqba ibn Nafi was an Arab general who was serving the Umayyad dynasty, in Muawiyah and Yazid periods, who began the Islamic conquest of the Maghreb, including present-day Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Morocco in North Africa. He was the nephew of 'Amr ibn al-'As. Uqba is often surnamed al-Fihri in reference to the Banu Fihri, a clan connected to the Quraysh. His descendants would be known as the 'Oqbids' or 'Fihrids'. Uqba is the founder of the cultural city of Kairouan in Tunisia. Uqba accompanied Al-‘As in his initial raids and capture of cities in North Africa starting with Barca, then proceeding to Tripolitania in 644 AD. In 670 now the emir or commander, Uqba led an Arab army to North Africa, crossing the Egyptian deserts, and setting up military posts at regular intervals along his route. In a region of what is now Tunisia, he established the town now called Kairouan about 160 kilometres south of present-day Tunis, which he used as a base for further operations. According to one legend, one of Uqba's soldiers stumbled across a golden goblet buried in the sands. It was recognized as one that had disappeared from Mecca some years before, and when it was dug out of the sand a spring appeared, with waters said to come from the same source as those of the sacred Zamzam Well in Mecca. This story led to Kairouan becoming a place of pilgrimage, and then a holy city and the most important city in North Africa.

Talhah

Man

Talhah or Talha, son of Obaidullah was one of the first eight persons to embrace Islam and a devoted disciple and companion of Muhammad, best known for his roles in the Battle of Uhud and the Battle of the Camel, in which he died.

Talal of Jordan

Monarch

Talal I bin Abdullah 26 February 1909 – 7 July 1972 was King of Jordan from 20 July 1951 until forced to abdicate in favour of his son Hussein due to health reasons on 11 August 1952. Talal's family claims a direct line of descent from the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

Saad Al-Harthi

Soccer

Saad Mish'al Al-Harthi - also transliterated Sa'ad Al-Harthi - is a Saudi Arabian football striker who plays for Saudi Premiership side Al-Hilal.

Antarah ibn Shaddad

Poet

'Antarah Ibn Shaddād al-'Absī عنترة بن شداد العبسي was a pre-Islamic Arab hero and poet famous for both his poetry and his adventurous life. What many consider his best or chief poem is contained in the Mu'allaqat. The account of his life forms the basis of a long and extravagant romance.