Costa Rica

Islam in Costa Rica is a small but growing religious minority. While the country is overwhelmingly Christian, the Muslim community plays a quiet but active role in religious and cultural life.

Quick Overview

  • Muslim Population: Estimated at 1,000–1,500 people, which is less than 0.05% of the total population (around 5 million).
  • Main Religion in Costa Rica: Roman Catholicism, followed by Protestantism.
  • Islamic Denominations: Mostly Sunni, with small Shia and Ahmadiyya communities.

History

  • 20th Century Immigration: Islam was introduced by immigrants from Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine in the early-to-mid 20th century. These immigrants were mostly Christian, but some were Muslim.
  • Over time, more Muslims arrived from countries like Pakistan, Iran, Egypt, and some African nations.
  • In the 1990s and 2000s, Latin American converts to Islam (called revertidos) also began to emerge, especially influenced by travel, internet exposure, and interfaith dialogue.

Religious Institutions

Costa Rica has a few Islamic centers and mosques, mainly in the capital, San José:

  • Centro Islámico de Costa Rica (Sunni) – the largest and oldest Islamic center, located in San José. Offers Friday prayers (Jumu’ah), Islamic education, and interfaith events.
  • Mezquita Omar (Sunni) – a mosque also located in San José, offering daily prayers and community activities.
  • Centro Cultural Musulmán (Shia) – serving Shia Muslims, particularly Iranians and Lebanese.
  • Ahmadiyya Community – a small, peaceful community also active in interfaith work.

Community Life and Identity

  • The Muslim community is diverse—including Arabs, South Asians, Africans, and Latin American converts.
  • There is an increasing number of Costa Rican converts, both men and women, who learn about Islam through personal exploration or relationships.
  • Women are active in community affairs and often lead educational and social programs.

Education and Outreach

  • Islamic centers offer Qur’an classes, Arabic lessons, and Islamic history education for both children and adults.
  • There’s a strong emphasis on interfaith dialogue—Muslim leaders regularly participate in discussions with Christians, Jews, and others.
  • Some Islamic organizations offer public events, especially during Ramadan and Eid, to help non-Muslims understand Islam.

Legal Status and Religious Freedom

  • Islam is legally recognized, and Muslims enjoy freedom of religion as protected by the Costa Rican constitution.
  • Muslim holidays are not public holidays, but Muslims are free to observe them privately.
  • Halal food is available, mostly in large cities or through private import.

Interfaith and Social Relations

  • Relations between Muslims and other religious groups are peaceful and respectful.
  • There is little Islamophobia in Costa Rica, though occasional misunderstandings or stereotypes may exist.
  • Muslims are generally seen as law-abiding, peaceful, and well-integrated, though they remain a low-profile community.

Costa Rica
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .cr
Country Code: +506