Germany’s Nordhorn Inaugurates Its First Mosque — A Milestone for the Pakistani Community

Frankfurt — Voice of Germany News

In a historic development for the northwestern German city of Nordhorn, located near the Dutch border and home to around 54,000 residents, the city’s first-ever mosque, Masjid Sadiq, has officially been inaugurated.

The opening ceremony, held on 6 december, was led by German convert to Islam Abdullah Wageshauser, who unveiled the plaque and offered a heartfelt collective prayer. More than 200 guests, including men and women from various German cities, attended the ceremony.

Following the inauguration, congregational Zuhr and Asr prayers were held, led by Maulana Mubarak Ahmad Tanveer. A special documentary showcasing the different stages of construction of the mosque was also screened during the event.

A Community-Built House of Worship

Much of the construction work for Masjid Sadiq was completed through self-help efforts by Pakistani community members. Professional assistance was sought only for crucial structural work such as the roof and minaret.

The architectural design was prepared by Mustafa Ljaic from Albania.

All doors of the mosque were provided and installed by Turkish supporter Oziemic Hassan.

Mosque Features

Total plot size: 1,600 sqm

Covered area: 530 sqm

Separate prayer halls for men and women with a combined capacity of 150 worshippers

Dedicated ablution area, kitchen, offices

A separate residential space for the mosque’s imam

Growing Pakistani Presence in Nordhorn

According to Ishtiaq Ahmed, the head of the only Pakistani family that settled in Nordhorn back in 1985, the number of Pakistanis in the area was just 25 when construction began. However, as the project progressed, more Pakistani families moved to the region. Today, Nordhorn is home to around 75 Pakistanis, and the community continues to grow.

Financial Contribution

The construction of Masjid Sadiq cost approximately €800,000, fully funded by two generous Pakistani donors — Ata ul Aleem  Ahmed and Mansoor Ahmed. Mansoor, though based in the coastal city of Kiel, played a key role in ensuring the project’s completion.

The inauguration of Masjid Sadiq marks a significant cultural and religious milestone for Nordhorn’s Muslim and Pakistani communities, symbolizing unity, resilience, and the strengthening presence of multiculturalism in Germany.