Funeral in Saudi Arabia

Most religions will have set procedures and rituals when it comes to that sensitive time in burying a person who has passed on. There are indeed specific rituals as well as customs which are followed when burying a person in Saudi Arabia.

To begin with, when a muslim dies, it is preferred for the body to be buried as soon as possible and usually within 24 hours of passing. If necessary, autopsies may be performed but the emphasis is on if necessary.

In preparation for burial the body will be washed and shrouded. It should be noted that this also includes shaving the body, particularly in the case of a male. A muslim is to be buried similar in the same manner in which he or she appeared on this earth – clean shaven. And only those closest to the deceased would be entrusted and undertake such a private final act. The body will also be washed in a similar manner as when a muslim makes ablutions for prayer. The body will be shrouded in clean white sheets which are referred to as kafan.At the cemetery, the body will be placed in a simple grave. It is typical for graves to not be marked with tombstones in Saudi Arabia.Finally, we have 3 days after the funeral that the relatives accept the deceased’s friends or anyone. And they can bring food or anything in order to reduce their pain. Also during the 3 days praying is what they mostly do.