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In the spritual tradition of Islam, a Wali (lit. protector or guardian), or Waliullah/WaliAllah is a friend of God.
Usually these people are members of Sufi (mystic) communities who are considered to have a special relationship with Allah. Some of them are believed to have directly conversed with God.
Famous Walis include Ali, son-in-law of Muhammed; Fatima, daughter of the prophet.
About Wali i.e. Wilayat, the Holy Quran has said:
إِنَّمَا وَلِيُّكُمُ اللّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ الَّذِينَ يُقِيمُونَ الصَّلاَةَ وَيُؤْتُونَ الزَّكَاةَ وَهُمْ رَاكِعُونَ {55}
[Shakir 5:55] Only Allah is your Wali and His Messenger and those who believe, those who keep up prayers and pay the poor-rate while they bow.
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