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Islamic Funeral in Germany — the essentials
Approximately 5.5 million Muslims live in Germany. An increasing number of families are choosing not to repatriate their deceased to their homeland, but to bury them here in Germany according to Islamic rites. This places particular demands: German burial laws and Islamic requirements must be reconciled.
This guide explains the complete process of an Islamic funeral in Germany — from the ritual washing to the grave. Should you alternatively choose repatriation to a Muslim country, we will accompany you in that as well.
Ghusl — the ritual washing of the deceased
The Ghusl washing is the first and most important duty following the death of a Muslim. The deceased is ritually washed by at least one person of the same sex — typically three times with water and camphor. The washing follows a prescribed sequence: right side first, then left side, always in an odd number.
In Germany, many mosques and Islamic communities provide washing facilities. We arrange certified Muslim thanatologists who perform the Ghusl correctly according to all Islamic schools of law.
Kafan — the funeral shroud
After the washing, the deceased is wrapped in the Kafan — white, plain linen cloths. Three cloths are used for men, five for women. The Kafan symbolises the equality of all people before Allah. Perfume or musk is applied to the cloth.
No jewellery or valuable clothing is used with the Kafan — Islam emphasises simplicity in death. The cloths cost between 30 and 80 euros in Germany.
Salat al-Janazah — the funeral prayer
The funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) is recited in the mosque or directly at the cemetery. It is a communal obligation (Fard Kifaya): if a sufficient number of Muslims perform the prayer, the obligation is fulfilled for all. The prayer is performed standing and comprises four Takbirat (glorifications).
In German cities with a large Muslim community, the funeral prayer is usually held on the same day as the burial, often in the local Friday mosque.
Islamic cemeteries and burial sections in Germany
Many German cities have Islamic burial sections in municipal cemeteries. Independent Islamic cemeteries exist in Wuppertal, Berlin, Aachen and several other cities. The graves are oriented towards Mecca (Qibla direction), and the resting period is generally unlimited.
Berlin
Islamic burial sections at Landschaftsfriedhof Gatow and Friedhof Columbiadamm. Coffinless burial partially permitted.
Cologne / Duesseldorf / NRW
NRW permits coffinless burial. Islamic burial sections available in almost all larger cities.
Frankfurt / Hesse
Hesse has permitted coffinless burial since 2012. Islamic cemetery in Frankfurt-Eckenheim.
Munich / Bavaria
Islamic burial section at Friedhof am Perlacher Forst. Coffin requirement still applies in Bavaria.
Coffin requirement, waiting period and legal particularities
In Germany, burial laws differ from one federal state to another. The key points for Islamic funerals:
Coffin requirement
In most federal states a coffin is mandatory. Exceptions on religious grounds: NRW, Bremen, Hesse, Berlin (partially), Lower Saxony.
Waiting period
In Germany, a minimum of 48 hours must elapse after death. Same-day burial is not possible — this conflicts with German law.
Perpetual right of rest
In most cities, the resting period can be extended indefinitely, which accords with the Islamic principle of eternal repose.
Orientation towards Mecca
In Islamic burial sections, graves are oriented towards Mecca (south-east in Germany) as standard.
Cost of an Islamic funeral in Germany
Costs vary considerably depending on the city and cemetery. On average, the following items should be expected:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ghusl washing & Kafan | 200–500 € |
| Funeral director services | 800–1.500 € |
| Grave costs (25 years) | 800–3.000 € |
| Total | 2.000–5.000 € |
If you would prefer repatriation to the homeland instead, please read our guide to the cost overview for international repatriations.
Burial in Germany or repatriation to the homeland?
Many Muslim families face this difficult decision. A funeral in Germany is considerably less expensive (2,000 to 5,000 euros) than repatriation to Turkey, Morocco or Pakistan (2,500 to 5,000 euros plus burial on site). At the same time, burial in Germany allows family members to visit the grave regularly.
We advise you honestly and with an open mind. If you wish for a repatriation, please read our article on Islamic repatriation abroad. Advance planning can help prepare this decision in calmer times.
FAQ: Islamic Funeral in Germany
How does an Islamic funeral proceed in Germany?
An Islamic funeral comprises Ghusl (ritual washing), Kafan (wrapping), Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer) and burial in an Islamic burial section. The burial is performed facing Mecca.
May a Muslim be buried without a coffin in Germany?
In NRW, Bremen, Hesse, Lower Saxony and partially Berlin, coffinless burial is permitted on religious grounds. In the remaining federal states, the coffin requirement still applies.
How much does an Islamic funeral cost in Germany?
Between 2,000 and 5,000 euros — including Ghusl, Kafan, funeral director services and grave costs. Considerably less expensive than an international repatriation.
Must the burial take place within 24 hours?
Islam prescribes a swift burial. In Germany, however, a waiting period of at least 48 hours applies. Burial on the 2nd or 3rd day is common practice.
Further guides
Islamic repatriation abroad
Repatriation to Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan — process, costs and Islamic rites.
Embalming explained
Tahnit embalming under Islamic law — when is it required?
Social welfare covers funeral costs
When does the social welfare office cover funeral or repatriation costs?