Peace, greenery and connection
Careful integration into Zuiderpark is central to the plan. Further development will consider existing greenery, paths and an accessible environment for visitors.
HomeThe plan
A resting place of our own for Rotterdam.
From a shared wish to a carefully developed plan for an Islamic cemetery in Zuiderpark.
The plan in Rotterdam-Zuid
A green resting place in Zuiderpark.
At the intended site on Maeterlinckweg, next to Zuiderbegraafplaats, we are working towards an Islamic cemetery of approximately three hectares. A place for the wider Muslim community of Rotterdam and the Rijnmond region, regardless of origin or background.
Space for farewell and prayer
The plan includes a funeral pavilion of approximately 500 m², with space for gathering, farewell, prayer and ritual washing. The layout and facilities are being developed further.
Care for families and the community
Alongside the cemetery, IBO aims to provide information and guidance on Islamic burial. Education for schools, healthcare professionals and other interested groups is also part of its ambitions.
These are the intended facilities and principles. The final details depend on the design, necessary procedures and funding.
Step by step
From a shared wish to our own resting place.
The intended site is on Maeterlinckweg, next to Zuiderbegraafplaats. With the signed SOK and support from a planning consultancy, we are working on the next steps.
Achieved
Cooperation agreement signed
A planning consultancy has been engaged for further development.
December 2027 · planned
Land purchase
A next step towards making the cemetery a reality.
December 2028 · planned
Cemetery development
The planned development of the site.
July 2029 · intended
Opening
An Islamic resting place for Rotterdam and the surrounding area.
This is the current timeline. We will keep you informed of progress and any changes.
What is happening now
The next steps are taking shape.
The cooperation agreement has been signed and a planning consultancy has been engaged. Together, we are developing the details.
From principles to layout
The graves, greenery, paths and pavilion are being designed as a coherent whole.
Careful procedures
The necessary studies, spatial planning procedures and permits form part of the preparations.
Funding and implementation
Fundraising supports acquisition and development. Implementation follows the necessary preparations and decisions.
For this generation and the next
Perpetual grave rest requires lasting care.
Perpetual grave rest is a central principle for IBO. We are working towards securing the land, clear agreements and an organisation that can care for the cemetery in the long term.
A sustainable foundation
The intended acquisition of the cemetery land is an important step. Agreements on burial rights, management and preservation also require careful development.
After the opening too
The operating model in the fundraising presentation envisages income from burial rights and, in time, educational and advisory activities. This income should contribute to responsible management and maintenance.
Strengthening continuity
In time, IBO aims to develop a waqf structure: permanently endowed assets whose returns could contribute to running costs. This is a future ambition that still needs further development.
IBO operates on a non-profit basis. Transparency about the organisation, the use of funds and progress is part of the trust the community places in this initiative.
Investing in the future togetherWhat is needed.
What is needed.
What we can achieve together.
According to the fundraising presentation, the community has raised approximately €850,000. In principle, this can cover the estimated €600,000 land purchase. Fundraising then focuses on development and construction.
€600.000
For purchasing the land. The funds already raised are intended to enable this step.
€3.500.000
For the grounds, pavilion and necessary facilities, including paths, utilities, drainage and greenery.
€350.000
A reserve of 10% of estimated construction costs, allowing for unforeseen expenses.
€4.450.000
The indicative combined estimate for land purchase, construction and contingency.
€3.850.000
The target for major and international donors covers construction and contingency. This is a fundraising target, not a live counter of the remaining shortfall.
Discuss a larger contribution ↗What do the construction costs cover?
The indicative breakdown is: site preparation and civil works €800,000; pavilion and building systems €1,400,000; paths, parking, lighting and security €500,000; utilities and drainage €250,000; landscaping and water features €300,000; furniture and equipment €150,000; professional support and permits €100,000. Total: €3,500,000, excluding the €350,000 contingency.
These figures are indicative estimates from the fundraising presentation. The breakdown may change during further design work and tendering.
Get involved
A place for generations.
With your support, we can continue building the Islamic Cemetery Rotterdam.