Islam has a long history in Georgia, dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries when Arab forces introduced the religion. Today, Muslims comprise around 10% of Georgia’s population, with most living in the Adjara and Kvemo Kartli regions. The majority of Muslims in Georgia are Sunni, with a small number following Shia Islam. Many of Georgia’s Muslims are ethnic Azerbaijanis, but there are also Georgian Muslims and other ethnic groups who practice Islam. See our halal food guides for dining options. Explore halal food in Georgia for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

Georgia is welcoming to Muslim visitors and provides a good level of safety for Muslim travellers. In larger cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, halal food is available, though smaller towns may have limited choices. Some hotels and guesthouses accommodate religious needs, such as providing prayer mats or indicating the direction of Qibla. The country offers several attractions for Muslim tourists, including historic mosques and Islamic architecture, particularly in regions with a significant Muslim population.

Is Georgia Muslim-Friendly?

Georgia (the country) is moderately Muslim-friendly with native Muslim communities:

  • 10% Muslim population: Mostly in Adjara and Kvemo Kartli
  • Religious freedom: Constitutionally protected
  • Historic mosques: In Muslim regions
  • Growing halal awareness: In tourist areas
  • Affordable destination: Budget-friendly
  • Stunning landscapes: Mountains, wine country, Black Sea

Georgia offers unique experiences with established Muslim communities in certain regions.

Does Georgia Have Halal Food?

Halal food availability varies by region:

Tbilisi (Capital):

  • Growing halal scene: Several restaurants
  • Turkish and Azerbaijani cuisine: Halal options
  • Near Jumah Mosque: Some halal eateries
  • International restaurants: Some offer halal

Batumi (Black Sea):

  • Adjara region: 30% Muslim population
  • Halal more available: Local restaurants
  • Mosque area: Halal food nearby
  • Resort city: Growing tourism

Kvemo Kartli Region:

  • Azerbaijani population: Halal common
  • Local communities: Traditional halal

Georgian cuisine considerations:

  • Khachapuri: Cheese bread (vegetarian, verify)
  • Khinkali: Dumplings (ask for lamb/beef version)
  • Mtsvadi: Grilled meat (request halal)
  • Fresh vegetables and salads: Safe options
  • Wine country: Avoid alcohol-based dishes

Tip: Batumi and Adjara region offer the best halal availability.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Georgia?

Tbilisi Jumah Mosque is the most significant in the capital:

  • Blue Shiite mosque in Old Tbilisi
  • Beautiful Persian-style architecture
  • Shared by Sunni and Shia (unique)
  • Historic landmark since 18th century

Batumi Mosque (Orta Jame):

  • Main mosque in Batumi
  • Serves Adjara’s Muslim community
  • 19th century building

Other mosques:

  • Mosques in Kvemo Kartli region
  • Marneuli area mosques (Azerbaijani community)
  • Rural mosques in Muslim-majority villages

Are There Many Muslims in Georgia?

Georgia has approximately 400,000 Muslims (10% of population):

  • Adjara Georgians: Muslim Georgians on Black Sea coast
  • Azerbaijanis: Largest Muslim ethnic group
  • Chechens and other Caucasians: Small communities
  • Mixed heritage: Centuries of coexistence

Georgian Muslims are well-integrated and have lived alongside Christians for centuries.

Is Georgia Safe for Muslims?

Georgia is very safe for Muslims:

Positives:

  • Low crime rates
  • Welcoming hospitality culture
  • Religious tolerance
  • Affordable destination
  • Easy visa (visa-free for many)
  • Native Muslim communities

Considerations:

  • Orthodox Christian majority (may be unfamiliar with Islam)
  • Limited halal in rural areas
  • Language barrier (Georgian language)
  • Some remote areas less accessible

Georgia is safe and increasingly popular with Muslim travelers.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Tbilisi

  • Jumah Mosque: Historic landmark
  • Old Town: Beautiful architecture
  • Sulfur baths: Traditional experience
  • Growing halal scene: Various restaurants

Batumi

  • Muslim-friendly resort: Adjara region
  • Black Sea beaches: Beautiful coastline
  • Mosque (Orta Jame): Historic mosque
  • Better halal availability: Than other regions

Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)

  • Mountain scenery: Stunning Caucasus
  • Gergeti Trinity Church: Iconic views
  • Limited halal: Pack food
  • Day trip from Tbilisi: Possible

Wine Region (Kakheti)

  • Unique viticulture: Ancient winemaking
  • Beautiful landscapes: Vineyards and monasteries
  • Non-alcoholic options: Juice and food
  • Self-catering: Prepare own halal

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Batumi for halal: Best Muslim infrastructure
  2. Visit Jumah Mosque: Tbilisi’s historic mosque
  3. Adjara region: Native Muslim Georgian community
  4. Learn Georgian phrases: Limited English outside cities
  5. Self-catering useful: For rural areas
  6. Budget-friendly: Very affordable destination
  7. Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
  8. Visa-free: For many nationalities