The construction of the first mosque

In December 1955, the Mobarak Mosque in The Hague opened its doors as the first mosque in the Netherlands. It was an initiative of the Pakistani Ahmadiyya community. Although the opening marked a historic moment in Dutch religious history, many people initially didn’t recognize the building as a mosque. Its modest design, more reminiscent of a Dutch townhouse or villa, blended seamlessly into its surroundings.

That perception began to change in the 1960s, when two small golden domes were added, followed later by a minaret. These elements gradually gave the mosque a more distinct religious identity.

In the 1990s, a second minaret was added, and in 2006, to celebrate its 50th anniversary, a third. With these additions, the Mobarak Mosque became more recognizable and iconic, while maintaining its original understated charm.