Five Reasons Why Barbados is Perfect For Muslim Travellers

Barbados might not be the first destination that comes to mind for Muslim travellers—but it absolutely should be. This Caribbean gem offers far more than just postcard-perfect beaches and turquoise waters. From accessible halal food options and welcoming locals to a peaceful atmosphere and growing Muslim community, Barbados is quietly carving out a space as an ideal destination for faith-conscious travellers. Whether you're looking to unwind in a serene, modest-friendly environment or explore a unique island culture with surprising Islamic touches, Barbados proves that paradise and practicality can go hand in hand.

1. Barbados is Steeped in Islamic History

The common narrative suggests that East Indian and Bengali Muslims from West Bengal and Gujarat began arriving in Barbados around 1910. However, the presence of Muslims on the island actually dates back much earlier. As far back as the 1600s, Muslims from West Africa were brought to Barbados through the trans-Atlantic slave trade, with estimates suggesting that 30–40% of those enslaved were Muslim.

Centuries later, the first documented Muslim from East India arrived on the island, drawn by the prospect of building a better life. In 1910, Beshart Ali Diwan, a Bengali Muslim, made his way to Barbados, where he eventually settled, married, and had children. Years later, Gujarati Muslims—who had originally migrated to Brazil—visited Barbados to trade coal and coconuts. Impressed by the quality of life and opportunities on the island, many chose to stay permanently. Over time, they established successful businesses and laid the foundations of a growing Muslim community.

The 1950s marked a major milestone with the establishment of the first mosque in Barbados. The first adhan (call to prayer) was delivered by Akram Ali, the island’s first muezzin and the nephew of Beshart Ali Diwan. During the 1960s, Mawlana Yusuf Piprawala, a respected Islamic scholar, arrived to offer religious guidance and serve the needs of the growing community.

Over the decades, Indian Muslims became an integral part of Bajan society. Many Gujarati Muslims took on the role of religious educators, teaching Islamic studies to the smaller Bengali Muslim population and contributing to the preservation of Islamic knowledge on the island.

2. The Island is Home To Many Mosques

The island has numerous mosques which are scattered in and around the capital Bridgetown. Some of them date back to the 50s and a couple of them have facilities for sisters. Here is a list of the five officially recognised mosques:

• Jama Masjid (click here for Google Maps location)
• Madinah Masjid (click here for Google Maps location)
• Masjid Ibn Umar (facilities for sisters) (click here for Google Maps location)
• Makki Masjid (click here for Google Maps location)
• Masjid Noor (facilities for sisters) (click here for Google Maps location)

There are other places for prayers i.e. Musallahs including the following:

• Darul Fazal (facilities for sisters) – near the airport (click here for Google Maps location)
• Darul Iman (click here for Google Maps location)
• Islamic Academy (click here for Google Maps location)
• Baytul Mahmood (click here for Google Maps location)

Some of these mosques have been around on the island ever since the 50s which goes to show the incredible history of Islam in Barbados.

3. Halal Food is Widely Available

Okay, I’ll be completely honest. Halal food is widely available, but there’s a few things you really need to know about Halal food. So in this section, I’ll break it down. It may sound a little complicated right now, but trust me, I’ve made it so much more easier for you to know where you can get Halal food from.

Before I go into Halal food options, I have to mention one thing. Barbados is surrounded by the sea which means fishing is a popular activity. Up and down the island, visitors will find fresh fish options as well as many restaurants and smaller food establishments selling grilled fish, fried fish, fish sandwiches and so much more in terms of seafood options. From kingfish to swordfish and Marlin to Mahi Mahi, Barbados is replete with awesome seafood. I highly recommend a place called Oistin’s Fish Fry which is located in Oistins and is a bustling area which serves fried and grilled local fish. Whilst there are few places to choose from here, I recommend Pat’s Place, as the portion sizes are very generous and the taste is top-notch! A generous portion of a decent-sized piece of fish with a side and salad will cost you $30-$35 BDOS (£12-£14/$15-$17)

There is also a fish market next door which serves fresh from as early as 6AM to around 2-3PM. Here you can get the same types of fish and cook at home if that’s what you prefer. Each fish will cost you around $14 BDOS (£6/$7.50)

Alright, so lets get into the Halal options. There is quite a wide range of halal food options available.

When it comes to halal food options, you have two options.

1. Home-cooked food delivered to your door
2. Placing orders with several halal food establishments

Home-cooked food

I recommend someone called Sajeda Pandor. With 24-hour notice, she and her husband will cook you up some delicious foods such as butter chicken curry, chow mein or mutton curry. You can see her full menu here or get in touch with her here. There are several other Muslims on the island that will happily cook for you as long as you give them 24 hours’ notice.

Halal Food Establishments

There are quite a few Halal food establishments in Barbados. I’ve listed the places I have been recommended below. I have also added a note if there’s anything you need to know about the place.

 – Seemas Grill – follow on instagram to be updated with daily menus. Located near the Jama Masjid in Bridgetown, this place is open 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM daily and can be contacted through their phone number on their instagram page. Here it is just in case the page does not open: + 1 246 571-8209 or +1 246 847-2300. (Click here for Google Maps Location – if you have any issues finding them, just call them on the numbers I have provided.)

 – Grillerz – these guys are also open daily and usually open in the evening at around 5:30PM – 6PM till late. They have new items on their menu every day and you can check out what they offer through their Facebook or Instagram. You can also contact them through these channels. These guys are located near the Makki Masjid in Bridgetown. You can also contact them on their local number which is +1 246-242-8888. (Click here for Google Maps Location)

 – FlavrGourmet – I have not tried these guys, but their food looks incredibly tasty! You can check their menu out by clicking here and you can also see their location on Google Maps here. FlavrGourmet is basically a small truck set up which has been rather popular amongst locals and tourists. It’s certified as Halal and they do foods like roasted chicken, chicken in waffles (I know right!) and fish platters. Definitely worth checking out!

 – The Masala Grill – The Masala GRILL is open on Fridays & Saturdays for in-house dining and take away only. From Ribeye Masala Steaks to Tazza Masala Blue Marlin, you can get a great variety from these guys. The best way to check out where they are, what they serve and who to contact is by visiting their Facebook page here. It is updated regularly with what is on offer and how you can dine in or pick up your order. The grill is fired up from 5:00pm until 11:00pm on Fridays & Saturdays and the last orders are at 10:30pm. The Masala Grill also cooks from their Indie Menu at Holders House Farmers Market, Holders Hill, St. James and this usually is between 10AM – 2PM. Note: reservations are required for in-house dining, and take away orders must be called in beforehand.

 – Pak Barbados – this one was recommended to me by a local of Madina Masjid on Sobers Lane. To find out what they offer and how to order, contact them here via their Instagram page. They have a variety of items and even though their menu is small, they have some awesome home-cooked items on offer.

4. Barbados is Home to Thousands of Muslims

Barbados is home to a vibrant Muslim population of around 3,000 people. While the majority are of Indian and Guyanese descent—predominantly Gujarati—you’ll also find indigenous Bajan Muslims who have embraced Islam. Many local Muslims were born and raised on the island, contributing to a strong sense of community and cultural integration. Among the most respected figures is Mawlana Yusuf Piprawala, a senior scholar who has lived in Barbados since the 1960s. Now nearing 100 years old, he resides near Jama Masjid and is usually available for visits after 11 a.m. Beyond him, the island is blessed with numerous scholars, huffāẓ (memorizers of the Qur’an), ʿulamāʾ (male scholars), ʿālimāt (female scholars), and a growing number of dedicated young Muslims actively involved in religious life.

Most Muslims in Barbados reside in and around the capital city, Bridgetown, which serves as the heart of the island’s Muslim community. However, you'll also find Muslim families living in other areas such as Oistins, Warrens, and along parts of the scenic South Coast. Whether you're shopping at local supermarkets, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the island, it’s not uncommon to encounter Muslim locals as part of the everyday fabric of Bajan life.

5. Miles of Coastline For Privacy

One of the top reasons Barbados is an ideal destination for Muslim travelers is its stunning, often serene beaches. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, many of which remain peaceful and uncrowded at times. This makes it easy for Muslim travelers to find a quiet spot to unwind, enjoy a picnic, or take a refreshing swim without any hassle.

We drove around the island daily and were always able to find a beach with plenty of space to ourselves. Since all beaches in Barbados are fully accessible to the public, you can easily find a peaceful spot no matter where you go. While Carlisle Bay is known to be a bit more popular, its expansive size ensures there’s always plenty of room to relax. And if you're concerned about nudity, rest assured—Barbados has a strict zero-tolerance policy on this, so you won’t encounter any issues during your visit.