“Sacred ground” might be the first thought that crosses your mind. It’s a fitting sentiment. We stand before Umm Al Hamam Cemetery. It is one of Riyadh’s most well-known cemeteries. Indeed Umm Al Hamam Cemetery is the second largest in the city. It follows the Al Oud cemetery in size. The third largest cemetery operates within the Riyadh municipality.
Umm Al Hamam Cemetery holds a significant place in the city. It reflects the history of the Kingdom. King Abdulaziz entrusted land. He entrusted it to Sheikh Muhammad bin Ibrahim Al al-Sheikh. He wanted the land used as a cemetery. The land was part of Sheikh Muhammad’s own property. He dedicated it to the community. He oversaw its care and development.
In December 2016, the Municipality of Riyadh closed Umm Al Hamam Cemetery. This was done for maintenance.
Umm Al Hamam Cemetery is in the eastern part of Umm Al Hamam. It spans over 90000 square meters. It is near King Khalid Mosque on the east side.
Umm Al Hamam Cemetery is open to visitors daily. It is open from morning until the Isha prayer. This allows people to visit their loved ones. The cemetery can accommodate many funerals. It handles around 220 bodies daily. These include men women and children of all ages.
The General Directorate of Environmental Health in Riyadh oversees Umm Al Hamam Cemetery. They coordinate burial services. They also provide equipment to prepare the deceased. In 1436 AH, Prince of Riyadh ordered the expansion. He ordered the expansion of Umm Al Hamam Cemetery. This included developing royal land. The actual industrial land north of the cemetery was also included.
Among those buried at Umm Al Hamam Cemetery are notable figures. These figures include scholars and dignitaries. Prominent figures like Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman Al-Ghadayan are buried here. He was a member of the Council of Senior Scholars. Also Abdullah Al-Aqeel lies here. He was the head of the Permanent Committee for the Judiciary. Also Abdulaziz Al-Mussea is buried here. He was a businessman. The cemetery is also the final resting place of media figures. These figures include Majed Al-Shibl and Saud Al-Dossary. Ahmad Zou Al-Ghena was a Syrian media figure from the Levant. Mohammed Al-Suqa was a media figure. He worked in Saudi television. He contributed to children’s programs.
Umm Al Hamam Cemetery has been closed for improvements several times. The cemetery’s popularity is a testament to its importance. The cemetery is important to the people of Riyadh. Its history is intertwined with the city’s own story. Its expansion and ongoing maintenance. All reflect the community’s respect for the deceased.