Saudi mourns its dead king: Thousands take to streets after King Abdullah dies aged 90 following battle with pneumonia - as 79-year-old brother inherits the throne

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah (pictured inset with the Queen ) has died. The royal had been in hospital since December, battling pneumonia. Half-brother Salman, 79, a reputed moderate, has inherited the throne. His death was confirmed on state television early on Friday morning, Saudi time, with channels cutting to Koranic verses - an action often signifying the death of a top royal. Pictures on Saudi state television (left) showed thousands gathering in Mecca to mourn the death.