Zagreb Muslim Community Breaks Ground on Major 9,000 sqm Education Complex

The Islamic Community in Croatia has launched one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects to date: a 9,000-square-meter educational and sports complex in Zagreb. The initiative coincides with the 110th anniversary of the official recognition of Islam in Croatia, marking a significant milestone for the local Muslim population.

The new facility, located immediately east of the existing Islamic Center, will house the Dr. Ahmed Smajlović Islamic Gymnasium, a student dormitory, the Shevko ef. Omerbašić Institute for Arabic Language and Islam, along with various sports and educational amenities. Mufti Hasanović emphasized that the current school facilities are no longer adequate to meet the growing needs of the student body.

„The current capacity and technical conditions are insufficient to provide students with the best possible environment for learning," Hasanović explained. "The gymnasium will expand its capacity to 200 students, and the new building is the primary motivation for this project." The educational program will remain fully aligned with the regulations of the Ministry of Science and Education, remaining open to all interested students regardless of background.

A Hub for Language and Culture

A key component of the new center is the Institute for Arabic Language and Islam, which Hasanović describes as unique not only in Croatia but across the wider region. The institute offers verified Arabic language programs that attract a diverse student body. Notably, approximately half of the participants are non-Muslims, with some groups consisting entirely of individuals with no prior contact with the language.

„Our programs are intended for everyone," Hasanović noted. "The fact that many participants have no religious affiliation speaks to the openness of the institution. The institute is also recognized by state bodies for providing education that aids professionals in their duties." In addition to classrooms, the complex will feature a sports hall, an amphitheater for lectures, specialized cabinets, and administrative offices.

Construction and Funding Timeline

The architectural design for the complex was selected through a public tender that received 19 submissions. The winning proposal was created by architects Hrvoje Bilandžić and Davor Plavšić, with visualization by Roman Krajcarz. Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2027, pending the completion of all necessary procedures and the issuance of the building permit.

The land, purchased from the City of Zagreb via public tender, represents a long but transparent process, according to Hasanović. Funding for the project is currently managed through community donations, with the Mufti previously calling for contributions of 250 or 1,000 euros to achieve the status of vakif (donor). While the total investment cost is still being calculated, the Islamic Community is covering initial costs for land, design, and permits. Official state funding from Croatia or the City of Zagreb has not yet been confirmed, though the project is viewed as a vital contribution to social integration and education.