'Always ready to serve': Saudi student stabbed to death in UK was a Kaaba volunteer

A Saudi young man who wasstabbed to death in the UK last week was a devout volunteer serving pilgrims visitng the Kaaba in Makkah, according to a media outlet focused on updates and news from the Two Holy Mosques.

The Saudi Arabian embassy in the UK stated earlier that it was following up on the incident of assault on Muhammad Al-Qassem, a 20-year-old Saudi student in the British city of Cambridge, which led to his death.

Cambridgeshire Police responded to reports of violence in the Mill Park area of the city shortly before midnight on Friday. They found Al-Qassem with serious injuries. He died at the scene soon after.

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It said on Monday that it is believed Al-Qassem was "stabbed in an unprovoked attack". He was on a 10-week placement studying English in the city when he died.

Years of selfless service

The Inside the Haramain handle on X published a statement mourning Al-Qassem, 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.

Al-Qassem's funeral is expected to take place in Makkah following the return of his body to Saudi Arabia.

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