Al-Andalusia Islamic University urgently seeks funding to establish first campus in Spain
With over 600 students from 22 countries, the university offers courses in Quranic studies, pedagogy, psychology and Islamic law in both Spanish and Arabic—soon expanding to English by the 2026–2027 academic year.
SHAH ALAM – Spain’s first Islamic university, Al-Andalusia Islamic University of Spain is on a mission to revive the region’s legacy as a centre of knowledge by establishing its first physical campus after more than six years of operating online.
However, the institution faces a critical financial challenge as it requires €2 million (approximately RM9.57 million) to complete the project but has secured only 10 per cent of the funds.
Founded in Seville, the university currently serves over 600 students from 22 countries, offering courses in Quranic studies, pedagogy, psychology and Islamic law in both Spanish and Arabic, with plans to introduce English by the 2026–2027 academic year.
The university's founder and rector Sheikh Mohammad Idrissi stressed the urgency of securing financial support before the end of September to ensure the campus can open by year-end.
He emphasised that the new site would not only serve as a Centre for Andalusian Studies but also act as a hub for Islamic education, cultural heritage and interfaith dialogue.
"Since 2019, students have only been able to pursue their studies online. It is time to provide a physical space where they can engage in face-to-face learning with lecturers.
"We are developing various sustainability programmes, collaborating with different organisations and establishing a system that will help us become self-sustaining," Idrissi said when met, recently.
To sustain its long-term vision, Al-Andalusia operates on a waqf (endowment) model. However, without sufficient funding, its ability to grow and remain accessible to students is at risk.
As part of its fundraising efforts, the university is reaching out to potential benefactors worldwide, including during a recent visit to Malaysia.
Idrissi emphasised that supporting the institution is not just charity, but an investment in the future of Islamic education in the West.
The university’s planned campus is located on an 18-hectare Andalusian estate over 115 years old.
Known as an Alquería or Cortijo, the site was once home to Muslims during the Andalusian era, making it an ideal environment for education and research.
It will include classrooms for over 700 students, residential facilities for 180 students, a mosque, a kitchen and other essential amenities.
"The required funds will go towards securing property ownership, carrying out renovations, acquiring furniture and equipment, covering operational costs and developing academic programmes," he added.
To encourage contributions, the university offers honorary recognition for donors.
Those donating over €50,000 will receive honorary membership, while contributions of €10,000 or more grant access to exclusive events celebrating Andalusian heritage. Donations exceeding €5,000 will be permanently acknowledged on the university’s Donor Wall.
"The greatest reward comes from Allah. Beyond that, we will display the names of donors, their organisations, or their family members for contributions above a certain amount," he said.
With the September deadline fast approaching, Al-Andalusia is appealing for support to help secure the future of Islamic education in Spain.
Contributions can be made through the university’s official website, ensuring that future generations benefit from the knowledge and faith this institution seeks to preserve.
"If we can settle the payment before September, it will give us more time to prepare the place. We aim to have everything ready by then, but if not, we may have to start a little later," Idrissi added.
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