Belize

Islam in Belize is a small but active minority religion that plays a modest role in the country’s diverse religious landscape.

Muslim Population in Belize:

  • Estimated to be around 500–1,000 people in a national population of approximately 400,000 — less than 0.3% of the total population.
  • Most Belizeans identify as Christians (mainly Roman Catholic and Protestant), but the country is known for its religious tolerance.

History of Islam in Belize:

  • Islam was introduced by immigrants from the Middle East, South Asia (India, Pakistan), and Africa during the 20th century.
  • A number of local Belizeans have converted to Islam, including members of the Garifuna, Creole, and Mestizo ethnic groups.
  • The growth of Islam in Belize has also been influenced by dawah efforts (Islamic missionary work), as well as exposure to Islam through travel and global media.

Mosques and Islamic Centers:

  • Masjid Al-Falah — Located in Belize City, this is the main mosque where Muslims gather for daily prayers, Friday Jumu’ah, Ramadan events, and Eid celebrations.
  • Islamic Mission of Belize — Provides Islamic education, religious counseling, and community services.
  • There are also smaller Islamic prayer spaces and gatherings in other towns like Belmopan (the capital) and Orange Walk.

Muslim Community Life:
Muslims in Belize regularly perform:

  • Daily prayers (Salah)
  • Friday congregational prayers (Jumu’ah)
  • Ramadan fasting and iftar events
  • Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha celebrations

Islamic classes are held for children and new Muslim converts. Belize’s Muslims come from diverse backgrounds: Indian, Pakistani, Arab, African, and native Belizean converts.

Challenges:

  • Halal food options are limited but improving in Belize City.
  • Islamic educational resources (like Islamic schools or full-time madrasas) are few.
  • Muslims are sometimes misunderstood by the wider population due to lack of exposure, but no widespread discrimination has been reported.

Social and Legal Environment:

  • Belize’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion.
  • Muslims are free to practice, build mosques, and carry out religious activities.
  • The broader society generally respects religious diversity, and interfaith relations are peaceful.

Interesting Notes:

  • Some small dawah (Islamic outreach) programs have seen local Belizeans, especially from Afro-Belizean and Garifuna backgrounds, embrace Islam.
  • Belize’s proximity to the United States and Mexico has helped some Belizean Muslims connect with larger regional Islamic communities.

Belize
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .bz
Country Code: +501