Barbados

Islam in Barbados has a longer and more structured presence compared to some other Eastern Caribbean islands, though Muslims remain a small religious minority.

Overview:
Muslim Population: Approximately 4,000–5,000 people, or about 1.5–2% of Barbados’s total population (~280,000). The Muslim community includes:

  • Descendants of Indian indentured laborers (brought during the 19th and early 20th centuries),
  • Immigrants from Syria, Lebanon, and Africa,
  • Local Barbadian converts, both African-Barbadian and others.

Mosques and Islamic Centers:
Barbados is home to several well-established mosques and Islamic organizations:

  1. Jama Masjid (Bridgetown): The main mosque located in the capital, Bridgetown. Built in 1950 and expanded since, it serves as the religious and social hub for Muslims.
  2. Madina Masjid (Passage Road): Another active mosque offering daily prayers, Jumu’ah, and Islamic education.
  3. The Barbados Muslim Association (BMA): Founded in 1950, it is the main Islamic organization supporting community activities, education, and social welfare.
  4. The Islamic Teaching Centre: Provides Islamic education, Qur’an classes, and interfaith programs.

Community Life:

  • Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers, Ramadan activities (including Taraweeh and Iftar), and Eid celebrations are regularly organized.
  • The community runs Islamic schools and weekend madrasas for children.
  • Halal butchers and grocery stores are available in Bridgetown and other areas.
  • Muslims in Barbados are actively involved in charitable work, especially during Ramadan and other religious occasions.

Legal and Social Status:

  • The constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and Muslims enjoy the right to practice openly.
  • Muslims are engaged in business, education, medicine, and other professions.
  • Barbados is known for its peaceful interfaith relations — Muslims coexist harmoniously with Christians, Hindus, and others.
  • The government has occasionally recognized Muslim holidays and the contributions of the Muslim community to national life.

Cultural Influence:

  • The Indian and Arab cultural heritage brought by Muslims influences food (such as curry dishes and halal meats), clothing (such as hijabs), and social customs.
  • The community also participates in interfaith dialogues and public events to promote understanding.

Challenges:

  • Like many small Muslim minorities, they face occasional misconceptions about Islam but generally experience social acceptance and freedom.
  • Growth is limited due to emigration of younger Muslims seeking opportunities abroad.

Interesting Facts:

  • Barbados is one of the few Caribbean nations with multiple mosques.
  • There is growing interest among some Barbadians in learning about Islam, and a small number of local conversions take place each year.
  • Halal food is relatively accessible compared to neighboring islands.

Conclusion
Islam in Barbados is a small yet vital part of the island’s religious mosaic. With a peaceful history, legal protection, and community efforts, Muslims in Barbados continue to live their faith while contributing positively to society. As Barbados grows more connected to the wider world, opportunities for greater understanding and appreciation of Islam may also expand.

Barbados
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .bb
Country Code: +1-246