Umm Al-Qura University honored its former vice presidents during a joyful ceremony where feelings of appreciation and gratitude dominated. The event was held under the patronage of His Excellency the President of Umm Al-Qura University, Prof. Abdullah bin Omar Bafail.

The ceremony started with a recitation of verses of the Noble Qur'an followed by a message from the ceremony sponsor, in which he welcomed the attendees and pointed out that the university celebrates today by honoring a special group of Their Excellencies, the university’s vice presidents, namely: Dr. Hani bin Uthman Ghazi, Dr. Thamir bin Hamdan Al-Harbi, Dr. Yasser bin Sulaiman Shosho, Dr. Abdul-Aziz bin Rashad Ali Suruji, and Dr. Abdul-Majeed bin Saeed Al-Ghamdi, for the distinguished efforts they have exerted to serve this blessed university since taking office in various vice presidencies until the end of their period of holding office.

Further, His Excellency proceeded: "Those who are being honored today have dedicated their time, effort and academic and scientific expertise to advance the working system within the vice presidencies under their administration. This contributed to improving and developing the admission process for male and female students, and opening the door for more scientific disciplines and the establishment of more university branches in many governorates. Moreover, their efforts helped the university programs obtain international academic accreditation, and its administrative system to be endorsed by the national institutional accreditation."

With all due gratitude, His Excellency the President of the University referred to the sincere efforts made by their preceding vice presidents, since they were unforgettable efforts.

He then expressed sincere appreciation, thankfulness and compliments to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz (may Allah safeguard them), and their wise government for their generous support and care for knowledge and students in our homeland in general and at Umm Al-Qura University in particular. He prayed to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) to maintain the blessing of security and safety, and prosperity and affluence of our beloved country, under our wise leadership. Moreover, he thanked His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Muhammad Al Sheikh, Minister of Education, for his valuable directions, follow-up and support to all university programs.

The ceremony included a display of video clips consisting of interviews with the most prominent personnel who accompanied the vice presidents in their administrative work, during which they praised their distinguished experience. The ceremony concluded with words delivered by the vice presidents in which they expressed their happiness for the initiative taken by their university to honor and thank them for their efforts during their tenure at the university. Finally, the event ended by taking memorial photos, and His Excellency the University President delivered gifts in a bright festive atmosphere.