Today marked a significant literary milestone as the autobiography of the esteemed Sheikh Saleh Kamel, titled “From and to Makkah,” was launched at the Riyadh International Book Fair. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture, and graced by the presence of His Excellency Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, Minister of Commerce, unfolded on the main stage, attracting a distinguished audience of high-profile cultural, intellectual, and diplomatic figures.

The autobiography chronicles the life of Sheikh Saleh Kamel, from his humble beginnings in the neighborhoods of Makkah to his influential roles in Islamic banking, satellite media, and various other fields. The book launch ceremony witnessed the presence of close friends, family, and notable figures who shared various stages of Sheikh Saleh Kamel’s multifaceted life.

In a speech delivered at the ceremony, His Excellency Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi praised the qualities that defined Sheikh Saleh Kamel, emphasizing his pure heart, leadership across diverse sectors, passion for work, and profound commitment to charitable endeavors. The Minister of Commerce commended the late Sheikh’s contributions to Islamic banking and his global impact.

The signing ceremony, led by Sheikh Saleh Kamel’s eldest son, Abdullah Saleh Kamel, highlighted the meticulous planning behind the launch at the Riyadh International Book Fair. Abdullah Saleh Kamel expressed gratitude for the generous patronage of His Highness the Minister of Culture and the unwavering support of Dr. Muhammad Hassan Alwan, CEO of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority.

The biography, crafted over more than two years, serves as a documented account of Sheikh Saleh Kamel’s professional journey within the “Islamic economy” system and “banking transactions” from an Islamic legal standpoint. The extensive research involved gathering materials from various sources, including the deceased’s writings, visual recordings, and interviews with those close to him.

The autobiography, authored by Nada Eid, blends personal reflections with objective observations, offering a comprehensive insight into Sheikh Saleh Kamel’s entrepreneurial spirit, visionary projects, and unwavering commitment to Islamic values. The book underscores the late Sheikh’s successes and challenges, illustrating a life dedicated to Islam, its principles, and ethics.

Sheikh Saleh Kamel, may God have mercy on him, received numerous accolades during his lifetime, including the King Abdul Aziz Medal for Distinguished Businessmen, the Independence Medal from the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Nilein Medal from the Republic of Sudan, and the Independence Medal from the Kingdom of Morocco.

The launch of “From and to Makkah” at the Riyadh International Book Fair 2023 signifies a pivotal moment in the Saudi cultural and intellectual landscape, establishing the event as a significant platform for the dissemination of knowledge regionally and beyond.