Bradford’s Ramadan pavilion: Celebration of Muslim heritage, unity

Architect and artist create an architectural symbol celebrating Muslim heritage and connection

BRADFORD, United Kingdom (MNTV) — A striking series of pink and teal arches will be the focal point of this year’s U.K. ‘s largest iftar, set to be held in Bradford. 

The Ramadan Pavilion, created by architect Fatima Mejbil and artist Zarah Hussain, is designed to celebrate the lives of Muslims worldwide, as reported by The National News.

The “Infinite Light” structure, standing 3 meters high, draws inspiration from both Islamic art and the city of Makkah, as well as from Bradford’s own rich heritage. 

The double-arched pavilion will be illuminated every night at sunset throughout Ramadan.

Fatima Mejbil, originally from Bradford but raised in Bahrain, expressed her excitement about the project, saying, “We wanted to combine East with West… I wanted something that both meant something to me and would resonate with the wider community.” 

The pavilion is part of a collaboration between the Ramadan Tent Project and Bradford City of Culture 2025, marking a major milestone in the city’s year of art.

The pavilion will remain open to the public through mid-February and will reflect the theme of “connection” with its 19 arches stretching 55 meters in length. 

The design draws inspiration from both Gothic and Islamic architecture, with the lower arch echoing the early courtyard arches of the Holy Mosque in Makkah.

The pavilion’s bold pink and teal colors were chosen by Zarah Hussain, who wanted to create something “unmissable” and noted that pink represents serenity, love, and peace. 

Hussain added, “The colour pink is associated with empowerment, and I want to draw attention to the fact that two women are designing this second edition of the Ramadan Pavilion for the very first time in history.”

Ms. Mejbil hopes that the pavilion will be a place of reflection and unity for all who pass through it during Ramadan, offering a space to pause and connect amidst the bustle of daily life in Bradford.

The Ramadan Pavilion in Bradford offers a vibrant symbol of connection, heritage, and reflection, bringing together diverse communities during the holy month.