Squadron Leader Imam Ali Omar has received the Distinguished Alumni Award 2026 during the 62nd graduation ceremony at the Islamic University Madinah KSA during a ceremony held on 27th April 2026. The award was presented by the Governor of Madinah KSA HRH Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz and the Chancellor of Madinah University HE Dr Saleh bin Ali Al-Uqla. A total of 3328 students graduated on that evening from 180 countries. Madina university so far has graduated over 150 000 students since its inception in 1961.
The journey to receive the award was preceded by a letter from the university informing Imam Ali Omar of his nomination in recognition of his exceptional academic, religious and community contributions, as well as exemplary representation of the Islamic University and its graduated worldwide. The award carries enduring recognition, including formal recording of Imam Ali Omar’s name in the University’s distinguished alumni register, an honour roll that preserves and celebrates the legacy of the most impactful graduates in the history of the University.
Squadron Leader Iman Ali Omar said:
“I would like to dedicate this award to my team at the RAF Brize Norton Chaplaincy and the Station Commander at RAF Brize Norton. I am also grateful to the RAF CoC who spearhead my leadership and management endeavours. It is my sincere hope that this award and recognition show the viability of a Muslim to join and work in our Armed Forces; an honour that I carry and feel proud to serve my country and faith.“
Squadron Leader Imam Ali Omar
Chaplin, RAF Brize Norton
For Imam, winning this award was groundbreaking and overwhelming. As the Imam to HM Armed Forces and the first Imam to commission into the RAF, working as a regular chaplain at RAF Brize Norton, the award is a culmination of hard work, exemplary teamwork and diversity of the RAF and the Chaplaincy profession. Being recognised globally shows the impact we are making to the Royal Air Force and UK Armed Forces, breaking stereotype and international outreach. As a chaplain Imam works with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, this also includes providing frontline support to our Military personnel in UK and overseas.
