Dr. Abdul Aziz Alsebail is the secretary-general of the King Faisal Prize. The prize was launched by the King Faisal Foundation, and granted for the first time in 1979.
The prize recognizes the outstanding work of individuals and institutions in five major categories: Service to Islam, Islamic studies, Arabic language and literature, medicine, and science.
Its aim is to benefit Muslims in the present and future, to inspire them to participate in all aspects of civilization, to enrich human knowledge and develop mankind.
Alsebail reiterated how globally revered the award is because of the high standard it applies for the evaluation of nominees and selection of winners.
“International prizes are key in promoting and localizing knowledge through immense contributions that strengthen innovation and creativity. This year holds particular significance as the award celebrates its 40th anniversary.”
He received his bachelor’s degree with first-class honors in Arabic language and literature from King Abdul Aziz University (KAU) in 1979.
After working as a radio announcer and programmer for Jeddah Radio, as well as an assistant instructor at KAU, he furthered his education, earning his master’s degree in near-eastern languages and cultures in 1983, as well as his Ph.D. in modern Arabic literature, both from Indiana University Bloomington.
In 1991, Alsebail became an assistant professor at KAU, a post he would hold for eight years.
He then became deputy editor-in-chief of Saudi Gazette until 2004. In 2005, he became deputy minister of culture until 2010.
