Assalamu’alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
Participating in the #InspiringRamadan26 challenge initiated by @MahabubMunna the edition of #CIRCLE (loCal guIdes Ramadan ChaLlengE)
Disclaimer: This post highlights a visit from September 2025. While it is not from my most recent travels, the spirit of inclusion and the heartwarming community I found there is something I feel truly deserves to be shared with our global family in this challange 
For my second contribution for #CIRCLE - Sometimes, mapping a location is a quick stop, and other times, it’s a journey decade in the making. During my trip to Geneva 
in September 2025 for meetings at the WHO office 
, I finally fulfilled a personal “mission” that started all the way back in 2008! 
The Long-Awaited Visit 
Back in 2008, while I was in Switzerland for meetings in Basel, I tried to find the Mosquée de Genève-Nations (CCISG). Unfortunately, between a tight schedule and the challenges of navigating a new city, I couldn’t locate it (as I was not as a local guides that time 
) Fast forward 17 years older, wiser, and with my Local Guide hat on, finally found my way back. It was a moment of true “Alhamdulillah.” 
Mosquée de Genève-Nations Femme Entrance
A Gentle Reminder: Generosity at the Entrance 
Near the entrance, I noticed a simple white box that serves as a quiet, beautiful reminder of the spirit of Sadaqah (charity). Written in both Arabic and French (Aumône), it features a powerful verse from the Quran: ‘And whatever you spend in charity, He will compensate you.’ (Surah Saba, 34:39). Seeing this at the very beginning of my visit felt like a gentle welcome, reminding us that every journey is an opportunity to give back
Community Warmth & “Balloon Diplomacy” 
My visit coincided with Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW festive in early Sept 2025. In the middle of the international bustle of Geneva’s UN district, I discovered a serene sanctuary that felt like a home away from home. 
One of my favorite details was the large, shady tree standing guard at the entrance 
. It provides such a calm, natural welcome and sets a peaceful tone for the entire visit, reminding us of the beauty in simple, living things.
I had a wonderful conversation with one of the sisters (in English) at the mosque and was warmly invited to join the festivities 
. I even had the joy of helping the children set up balloon decorations! Despite the language barrier, as I cannot speak French, we had a wonderful time laughing together with those little angels. 
Too bad I didn’t get to take any pictures with them, but that beautiful memory is forever kept in my heart. 
Can you spot the children? 
An Accessibility Advocacy Check 
I always try to look at spaces through the eyes of someone who might need extra help, like the elderly or those with mobility needs. While the atmosphere at this mosque is wonderful, I noticed a few spots where access could be improved. I mention this with a humble heart, hoping that we can continue to advocate for spaces that are fully inclusive for all:
- The “Stairs” Challenge: While the main prayer hall is accessible, the wudu (ablution) and restrooms are located downstairs. Currently, there is no lift or ramp to reach this level. For elderly worshippers or those with mobility challenges, this is a significant barrier.
- Inclusivity Gaps: I noted a lack of tactile guided blocks
or Braille buttons ⠃. As Local Guides, highlighting these gaps helps venues understand how to become truly “open to all.” - The Bright Side: The wudu stations feature built-in stone seating, a very helpful detail for those who need to sit while washing.
Pro-Tips for Your Visit 
- Landmarking: The building is subtle and doesn’t look like a traditional mosque from every angle. Look for the large, shady tree at the entrance, it’s the best landmark!
- Timing: Access is often regulated around prayer times. If you are walking over from the UN/WHO offices, check the prayer schedule first.
- Inclusivity: For female travelers, the women’s area is very well-marked with multilingual signs , making it easy to find your way.
The Mosquée de Genève-Nations is a serene sanctuary that serves as a vital spiritual heart for the international community in the UN and WHO district. I left feeling so grateful for the warmth I found there. It is my humble hope that by addressing hurdles like step-free access to the wudu area, this beautiful mosque can become an even more inclusive home, one where every worshipper, regardless of their physical needs, can feel fully at peace.
Mapping isn’t just about coordinates; it’s about the stories we find and the improvements we advocate for. I’m so glad I finally closed this 17-year chapter in my travel diary!
You can find my review here: Mosquée de Genève-Nations CCISG
Wassalamu’alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
#LetsGuide