A young, fast-growing Muslim community thriving in one of the world's most welcoming nations.
Canada's Muslim community has grown faster than almost any other in the West, now approaching 5% of the population. From Toronto to Edmonton, Canadian Muslims are educators, doctors, athletes, mayors and members of Parliament, part of a story that began with a handful of families and has become a defining thread of modern Canada.
Scholar & academic
First female president of the Islamic Society of North America; a leading Canadian Muslim scholar.
Country
Canada
Muslims
1,775,715 Muslims
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4.9% of the 2021 population
Landmark
CN Tower · Toronto
Canada's first recorded Muslim residents arrived in the 19th century, but the community remained tiny until immigration policy opened in the 1960s and 70s. Waves of newcomers from South Asia, the Middle East, the Balkans, East Africa and beyond built thriving communities in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta. Today, Canadian-born Muslims and converts are adding a new chapter to a story still being written.
View statistical sourceCanada's openness and Islam's universality fit each other naturally. A faith that makes no distinction between Arab and non-Arab, that honours every people's language and culture so long as God is remembered, finds a ready home in a country built on pluralism. People embrace Islam in Canada for the same reason they do everywhere: because the message is simple, true, and old, older than any country. It is the call of Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad, peace be upon them all: worship your Lord alone, and do good. That original purity is what keeps reaching new hearts, in every latitude.
"We have sent you but as a mercy to all the worlds." — Qur'an 21:107
Positive contribution
Muslims in Canada contribute to the whole society — in service, scholarship, sport and charity.
Canadian Muslims serve in Parliament, in provincial legislatures and as mayors of major cities including Calgary and Edmonton.
Muslim doctors and researchers are prominent across Canada's hospitals and universities, serving patients of all backgrounds.
Athletes like boxer Mandy Bujold and NBA player Rondae Hollis-Jefferson represent Canada's Muslim sporting excellence.
Muslim food banks and refugee sponsorship groups are among the most active community organisations in Canadian cities.
Different languages, different cultures, one message. Explore more countries or read the Qur'an for yourself.
