By the grace and blessings of Allah the Almighty, the blessed proceedings of Jalsa Salana UK 2026 commenced on 24 July 2026 at Hadeeqatul Mahdi, transforming the site into a remarkable manifestation of faith, devotion and unity. Although the formal programme was due to begin later in the afternoon with the live relay of the inaugural address by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aa), the spiritual atmosphere had already begun to flourish as thousands gathered for the Friday prayers.
From late morning, women and children made their way towards the marquees, eager to secure a place for Jumuah behind beloved Huzoor (aa) – an experience that, for many, would be their first. While weekly Friday prayers may appear routine to those accustomed to attending them in the United Kingdom, for many international guests this moment represented the fulfilment of a lifelong aspiration. Countless attendees had travelled from across the globe, making immense financial and personal sacrifices simply for the opportunity to offer prayers behind their beloved Khalifa. For many, the journey itself was an act of devotion.
As the adhan echoed across every corner of the Jalsa site, the lively atmosphere gently gave way to one of tranquillity and worship. Conversations ceased, and the marquees filled with orderly rows of worshippers preparing for prayer. It was a striking scene of unity, as thousands stood shoulder to shoulder, responding to the call of Allah with complete humility and submission.
It is often asked why women cherish the opportunity to offer Jumuah behind beloved Huzoor (aa), despite participating through a live audio relay from the ladies’ side, separated by a physical partition. For those devoted to Khilafat, however, the answer is both simple and profound. A flower may never behold the gardener who patiently waters and nurtures it until it blossoms, yet its very existence depends upon that unseen care. Likewise, the believer’s spiritual growth is nurtured through obedience, prayer and attachment to Khilafat, which serves as a means of drawing ever closer to Allah the Almighty. Thus, the opportunity to offer Jumuah behind beloved Huzoor (aa) is regarded as a priceless spiritual blessing and a means of strengthening one’s relationship with God.
Moments later, the blessed recitation of the tashahhud, ta‘awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah by beloved Huzoor (aa) resonated across the Jalsa site, as thousands of worshippers stood united in prayer, their hearts turned towards Allah the Almighty.
In his Friday Sermon, beloved Huzoor (aa) reminded both guests and duty holders of the true objectives of attending Jalsa Salana. Addressing the guests, Huzoor (aa) encouraged everyone to embody compassion, kindness and patience, greeting one another warmly with Salaam and treating every interaction as an opportunity to display the beautiful teachings of Islam. Speaking to duty holders, Huzoor (aa) emphasised that the success of their service depends entirely upon seeking the help of Allah the Almighty. He urged them to give particular attention to prayer, regularly offer Tahajjud, increase the recitation of Durood Sharif and Istighfar, and remain constantly engaged in the remembrance of Allah throughout their duties.
Following the sermon, Jumuah and Asr prayers were offered in congregation. At approximately 2:30 pm, attendees dispersed to collect lunch, choosing either meals available from the Bazaar or the daal and pasta prepared by the Langar Khana.
The afternoon then witnessed one of the most symbolic moments of Jalsa Salana. At 4:30 pm, the ceremony for the hoisting of the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat (Flag of Ahmadiyyat) commenced, formally inaugurating Jalsa Salana UK 2026. As beloved Huzoor (aa) arrived at the central flag area, surrounded by the national flags of countries from across the world, the air resounded with heartfelt slogans expressing love for Islam Ahmadiyyat and devotion to Khilafat.
Although the women gathered in the ladies’ arena were not physically present at the flag-hoisting ceremony, the powerful slogans reverberating through the loudspeakers stirred hearts across the site. Watching the live relay, many reflected upon the profound significance of the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat – a symbol of the mission established by the Promised Messiah (as), which, through the grace of Allah, has continued to flourish and spread to every corner of the globe. As the blessed flag rose gracefully against the summer sky, gently moving in the breeze, it served as a powerful reminder of the ever-expanding message of true Islam.
Whether seated together inside the main ladies’ marquee or gathered on colourful picnic blankets across the surrounding grounds, women watched this historic moment with gratitude and offered silent prayers for the continued progress of Islam Ahmadiyyat.
Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, beloved Huzoor (aa) proceeded to the men’s main marquee for the formal opening session of Jalsa Salana UK. The proceedings commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by its Urdu translation and presentations of Urdu poetry.
Beloved Huzoor (aa) then delivered his inaugural address, focusing on the importance of attaining taqwa (righteousness) and the practical means through which it may be achieved. He explained that true righteousness is attained through complete obedience to the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa), firm belief in the unseen, sincere financial sacrifice and unwavering trust in Allah the Almighty. Among the many profound points shared during the address was Huzoor’s (aa) reminder that Allah grants spiritual insight, wisdom and divine understanding to those who sincerely believe in the unseen and strive to strengthen their relationship with Him.
The session concluded with a silent prayer led by beloved Huzoor (aa). Across the ladies’ side of Jalsa Gah, many found themselves deeply moved, their eyes filling with tears as they reflected upon the immense blessing of belonging to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat and witnessing these spiritually uplifting moments alongside thousands of fellow sisters.
As the first day of Jalsa Salana UK 2026 drew to a close, it left an indelible impression upon the hearts of the 21,630 women in attendance. The excitement, spirituality and sense of unity experienced throughout the day renewed their faith and strengthened their resolve to draw ever closer to Allah the Almighty. Although many remarked how quickly the day had passed, making the conclusion of Jalsa seem one step nearer, there remained a palpable sense of anticipation. As families made their way towards dinner and explored the Bazaar, conversations naturally turned to the following day, when, insha-Allah, beloved Huzoor (aa) would bless the ladies’ Main Marquee with his presence, granting yet another opportunity to receive his guidance and further enrich the spiritual blessings of Jalsa Salana.
Highlights from the ladies’ departments
As the first day of Jalsa Salana UK 2026 unfolded, the ladies’ side of the Jalsa Gah welcomed a steady flow of guests from across the United Kingdom and around the world. The site was alive with colour as women, dressed in vibrant attire and hijabs reflecting the diversity of the global Jamaat, made their way between the various marquees. Behind the scenes, thousands of Lajna volunteers worked tirelessly across numerous departments, united by a shared spirit of service as they attended to the needs of the guests of the Promised Messiah (as).
The following provides a snapshot of some of the departments serving on the first day of Jalsa Salana UK.
IAAAE
The International Association of Ahmadi Architects & Engineers (IAAAE) plays an important role in supporting humanitarian initiatives across the world, including projects that promote sustainable farming in Africa. Now in its fifth year on the Jalsa site, the IAAAE stall continues to combine charitable fundraising with a welcoming experience for families.
Volunteers explained that, following the guidance of beloved Huzoor (aa), the department strives to maximise its fundraising efforts for humanitarian causes. To achieve this, the stall offers a wide selection of refreshments, snacks and children’s toys. Among this year’s most popular items are toffee popcorn, mojitos, snow-cone drinks and the latest children’s favourite – a soft “Butter Squishie” toy.
Each year, the team carefully researches popular toys that appeal to younger visitors, helping to keep children engaged while enabling parents to listen to the Jalsa proceedings with greater ease. A notable addition this year is the introduction of card payment facilities, making purchases more convenient for guests.
Rishta Nata
With marriage being a crucial part of a Muslim’s faith by completing half of one’s religion, the Rishta Nata department continues to provide an important service for members of the Jamaat seeking suitable marriage proposals.
This year, approximately 60 meetings have already been arranged over the course of Jalsa Salana – a marked increase compared with previous years. The department facilitates both pre-arranged meetings in private booths and opportunities for families to meet within the marquee.
These meetings are coordinated through the Rishta Nata application, where prospective candidates create profiles containing essential information such as age, education and family background. Further details are shared only after the consent of both parties has been obtained, ensuring privacy and confidentiality throughout the process.
With guests attending Jalsa Salana UK from countries across the globe, the Rishta Nata marquee provides a valuable opportunity for families from different regions to meet in person and explore suitable proposals.
Reporting department
The Ladies’ Reporting Department is responsible for documenting the events and experiences of Jalsa Salana UK from the ladies’ side. The department comprises separate English and Urdu teams, producing reports for Al Hakam and Al Fazl respectively.
Their work extends well beyond the three days of Jalsa. In preparation for the convention, volunteers spent several days interviewing guests and producing content from locations including Islamabad, Baitul Futuh Mosque, Jamia Ahmadiyya UK, Hadeeqatul Mahdi and Fazl Mosque.
During Jalsa itself, the department consists of five English reporters and eight Urdu reporters, who work throughout the day to capture the activities taking place across the ladies’ Jalsa Gah. Their coverage includes departmental updates, interviews with guests and duty holders, and reports highlighting the day’s proceedings and many services provided by Lajna volunteers.
The department also serves as a reminder that most of the ladies’ side of Jalsa Salana is organised and operated entirely by women, who oversee a wide range of responsibilities including security, first aid, hospitality, Ziafat and numerous other essential services.
Volunteers explained that they regard their work as a means of bringing Jalsa Salana to those unable to attend in person. Through accurate and engaging coverage of the proceedings, they strive to enable readers to experience the atmosphere of the ladies’ Jalsa Gah and feel as though they are sharing in the blessings of the occasion alongside those present.
MTA Lajna UK
The MTA Lajna UK team is responsible for producing digital content under the guidance of Sadr Lajna Imaillah UK for MTA International, Lajna UK’s official platforms and social media channels.
Through interviews, short documentaries and feature videos, the department provides viewers with an insight into the experiences of Lajna and Nasirat during Jalsa Salana UK. Supported by a team of ten volunteers, they had already completed several productions on the opening day, including a video accompanying an article submitted to a national newspaper and a feature documenting a guest’s first experience of attending Jalsa Salana UK. Both productions are scheduled to be broadcast across MTA’s platforms.
Volunteers described their work as both a privilege and a responsibility, recognising the opportunity to present an authentic portrayal of Ahmadi Muslim women to audiences around the world. Through their creativity and dedication, the department seeks to highlight the contributions of Lajna and Nasirat, while challenging common misconceptions about Muslim women by showcasing their active role in serving both their faith and society.