Cllr Masood Ahmed
Former Mayor of Kirklees, Football Coach, Armed Forces Covenant Champion for Kirklees Council Councillor
Cllr Masood Ahmed Leads the Way in Bringing Sacred Kiswat Al Kaaba Exhibition to Dewsbury
​
Dewsbury, 12th July 2025 — A landmark cultural and spiritual event took place at Dewsbury Town Hall this weekend, drawing crowds from across the region — and at the heart of it all was Councillor Masood Ahmed, whose leadership and dedication helped bring the sacred Kiswat Al Kaaba exhibition to life in West Yorkshire
​
The exhibition featured original sections of the Kiswah — the intricate black and gold cloth that covers the Kaaba in Makkah — alongside other rare Islamic artefacts including the Rawdah Lock and the Kaaba Door Cover. Organised in partnership with Kiswat Al Kaaba representatives including Sheikh Ilyas and Hafiz Yusuf, the event became a powerful moment of unity, education, and cross-cultural celebration
​
Cllr Masood Ahmed worked closely with co-organisers Hanifa Darwan and Nosheen Dad to ensure the exhibition’s success. His efforts in securing the venue, building community engagement, and working with local leaders were instrumental in bringing such a prestigious event to Dewsbury — a first of its kind for the town
​
"This was more than just an exhibition. It was about opening doors to understanding, honouring sacred heritage, and inspiring future generations," said Cllr Ahmed. “I’m proud that Dewsbury could host something so significant.”
​
The event was attended by a wide range of dignitaries and community members, including MP Iqbal Mohammed, Cllrs Habiban Zaman, Kathy Scott, Ali Arshad, and others. Guests praised the exhibition as both spiritually uplifting and culturally vital — a symbol of Dewsbury’s growing role in intercultural dialogue and community empowerment
​
With calls now growing to establish a permanent Kiswa Arts and Culture Gallery in the town, Cllr Masood Ahmed’s commitment has helped lay the foundation for Dewsbury to be recognised nationally as a centre for cultural heritage and learning
In a heartfelt and uplifting moment, Cllr Masood Ahmed is seen holding the Maqaam Ibrahim Key — a rare and sacred artefact — handed to him by Sheikh Ilyas of Kiswat Al Kaaba. His expression of awe and gratitude reflects the significance of the occasion and his deep appreciation for being part of this historic exhibition in Dewsbury Town Hall. A key organiser of the event, Cllr Ahmed’s joy and pride shine through as he stands beside Sheikh Ilyas, celebrating a milestone for both faith and communi
A powerful image of unity and shared purpose, this photo captures Councillors Cathy Scott, Hanifa Darwan, and Masood Ahmed alongside Hafiz Yusuf of Kiswat Al Kaaba. Taken with the majestic Holy Kaaba Door Cover displayed behind them, the image symbolises interfaith respect, civic pride, and cultural harmony. Their collective presence underscores the importance of this landmark event — not only as a celebration of Islamic heritage but also as a moment of community empowerment and collaboration in
In a heartfelt and uplifting moment, Cllr Masood Ahmed is seen holding the Maqaam Ibrahim Key — a rare and sacred artefact — handed to him by Sheikh Ilyas of Kiswat Al Kaaba. His expression of awe and gratitude reflects the significance of the occasion and his deep appreciation for being part of this historic exhibition in Dewsbury Town Hall. A key organiser of the event, Cllr Ahmed’s joy and pride shine through as he stands beside Sheikh Ilyas, celebrating a milestone for both faith and communi