Zaheer Ahmad Khan, Naib Afsar Jalsa Salana UK
Jalsa Salana UK, the annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, will take place this year from Friday, 25 July to Sunday, 27 July. Preparations are well underway with volunteers working hard around the clock and across the site to get everything ready. This report shares the latest on-the-ground updates and highlights some of the new features planned for this year’s Jalsa.
The Jalsa Salana UK Planning Committee was approved by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, after which the planning officially began. Key suppliers and contractors were contacted to arrange vital infrastructure for Jalsa, including metal tracks, marquees, generators, tower lights and air conditioning for the main marquees, among other things. This year, by the grace of Allah, high-quality suppliers were sourced from China with the support of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany, enabling the procurement of reliable materials at competitive rates.
In March, Huzooraa also approved a special Cost Committee, of which Sahibzada Mirza Waqas Ahmad was appointed in-charge. The committee’s task was to work closely with every department involved in Jalsa to review, assess and approve all expenses – from marquee rentals and transport to food supplies and infrastructure. Their goal was to ensure that every penny was spent wisely, costs were kept within budget, and the Jamaat’s funds were used as efficiently as possible.
The 28-day period commences
It is a rule that both the preparation and wind-up of the entire Jalsa site must be completed within a 28-day period. This year, the period began on 7 July, and officers from the South Downs National Park Authority visited the site for their initial inspection. They were pleased with the preparations and compliance with local planning regulations. Further inspections are scheduled as the event approaches and will also be conducted afterwards.
On 12 July, Amir Sahib Jamaat UK held a special meeting with all volunteers, under the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. He reminded all workers of the spiritual significance of their service and encouraged them to maintain the highest standards of character, cooperation and discipline.
All nizamats (departments), such as Khidmat-e-Khalq, Health and Safety, Electricity, Water Supply, Communication, Roti Plant, Car Parking, and Site Maintenance, are now fully operational. Daily coordination meetings are being held to ensure deadlines are met and address any challenges that arise.
24-hour security and surveillance duties have also begun, with khuddam and waqf-e-arzi volunteers working day and night across shifts.
Current progress
As of the latest update, the following progress has been made:
– 40% of the metal track has been laid
– 50% of required toilets have been installed
– 50% of showers are in place
– 30% of cabins (used as offices and accommodation) have been installed
– 50% of the fencing around the main arena is complete
– The men’s main marquee is fully erected and functioning
– The Lajna marquee frame is up, with flooring currently in progress
– 20% of smaller marquees (e.g., scanning, accommodation, dining) are up
– 10% of flooring across the site has been completed
– Eight large electricity generators have been installed
– 50 tower lights have been set up
Volunteers, particularly from Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya UK, are working in teams to complete groundwork, construct fencing, and assemble interior furnishings – all under the spirit of sacrifice and unity.
New features for Jalsa Salana 2025
– New car park: A large new car park has been allocated to accommodate more vehicles and ease traffic flow during peak hours.
– Improved scanning system: Additional scanning tents and zones are being added to prevent bottlenecks at entry points, allowing guests to enter the site quickly and efficiently.
– Upgraded car pass system: A new software tool has been implemented, streamlining the issuance and categorisation of car passes for different attendee groups.
– Collaboration between Jamaat UK and Jamaat Germany: A coordinated effort between Jamaat UK and Jamaat Germany has resulted in improved quality and cost savings with suppliers in China. Seven large shipping containers are being sent, with several already on site and others en route.
Waqf-e-Arzi and international teamwork
Waqf-e-Arzi volunteers from across the UK are working across the various departments. Dedicated teams from Australia and Canada have also arrived to assist with preparations, particularly in setup and dismantling. Jamia Ahmadiyya UK students will also be joining the final phase of the build-up.
As Jalsa Salana UK 2025 approaches, thousands of volunteers continue to dedicate their time to ensuring a smooth and spiritually uplifting experience for all attendees. We request continued prayers for the success of this blessed convention.