An imam from eastern Saudi Arabia
Sheikh Abdullah Al-Matroud comes from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, where he became known as an imam and reciter. His recordings have spread widely, and many people in the Arab world and beyond have come to know him through his complete murattal recording of the Quran.
The sound of his recitation
Al-Matroud's voice is full and resonant, with a melodic colour that nonetheless stays earnest and devout. He recites in the murattal style – calm and even – yet gives the verses a clear emotional depth. In admonitions and descriptions of the Day of Judgement his voice grows heavier; in verses of hope it brightens. Listening to him, you sense that each passage has its own mood.
Why so many love to listen to him
His recitation brings together two things that do not always meet: it is beautiful enough to listen to gladly and at length, and simple enough not to distract from the content. That is why he is often listened to for reflection – not only in Ramadan, but in the quiet moments of everyday life.
What you can take from him as a learner
- Mood and meaning: listen to a passage with changing themes (for example from Surah Qaf or Surah Al-Waqi'ah) and notice how his tone follows the content. Then read the tafsir.
- Melody in measure: he shows that a beautiful melody need not push aside the rules of tajweed. His elongations and pauses remain correct.
- Listening as a habit: many use his recording to listen through the entire Quran regularly – a lovely goal for any month.
What remains
With his voice, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Matroud has made the Quran more accessible to many people. His recitation invites you not only to hear but to linger and understand. May Allah reward him abundantly and accept his service.