Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz dies

Thousands to say farewell to Saudi King Abdullah

Thousands are expected to gather Friday to say farewell to the well-regarded monarch, who succeeded in securing broader freedoms in the conservative kingdom.

Abdullah bin Abdulaziz was the fifth of his brothers to take the throne and became king in 2005, reports Caroline Hawley

Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz has died, royal officials have announced, weeks after he was admitted to hospital.

King Abdullah, who was said to be aged about 90, had been suffering from a lung infection.
A statement early on Friday said his 79-year-old half brother, Salman, had become king.
Abdullah came to the throne in 2005 but had suffered frequent bouts of ill health in recent years.