Norway is a Muslim-friendly country known for its tolerance and respect for religious and cultural diversity. Several mosques and Islamic centres exist in Norway, particularly in larger cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. Norway actively supports its Muslim population, which makes up about 3.4% of the country’s total population as of 2020. Most Muslims in Norway live in the regions of Oslo and Viken, where they enjoy the freedom to practice their faith and maintain their religious identity. See our halal food guides for dining options. Explore halal food in Norway for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

The Norwegian constitution explicitly guarantees religious freedom, and the government proactively supports various religious communities, including Islamic organizations. This support ensures that Muslims have access to the necessary resources and infrastructure to practice their faith and preserve their cultural heritage.

Is Norway Muslim-Friendly?

Norway is moderately Muslim-friendly with good urban infrastructure:

  • 200,000 Muslims: About 3.4% of population
  • Constitutional religious freedom: Protected by law
  • Mosques in major cities: Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim
  • Halal available in cities: Growing options
  • Multicultural Oslo: Best Muslim infrastructure
  • Natural wonders: Fjords, Northern Lights, midnight sun

Norway offers good Muslim-friendliness in cities, though rural areas have limited options.

Does Norway Have Halal Food?

Halal food is available in Norwegian cities:

Oslo:

  • Grønland: Multicultural neighborhood with halal shops
  • Tøyen: Middle Eastern and South Asian restaurants
  • City center: Various halal options
  • Halal grocery stores: Throughout the city

Bergen:

  • City center: Some halal restaurants
  • More limited: Than Oslo

Trondheim:

  • University city: Some halal options
  • Limited but growing: International restaurants

Stavanger:

  • Oil city: Some international options
  • Limited halal: Plan ahead

Norwegian halal options:

  • Kebab shops: Common throughout cities
  • Middle Eastern restaurants: Falafel, shawarma
  • South Asian cuisine: Pakistani, Indian
  • Halal supermarket sections: Major chains stock halal meat
  • Fresh salmon and seafood: Naturally halal and excellent

Tip: Norway’s salmon is world-famous—enjoy it sashimi-style or grilled.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Norway?

Islamic Cultural Centre (Oslo) is the largest:

  • Located in Grønland district
  • Serves Pakistani community
  • Capacity for 2,000+ worshippers
  • Multiple prayer halls

Other significant mosques:

  • Central Jamaat-e Ahl-e Sunnat (Oslo): Major Barelvi mosque
  • Minhaj-ul-Quran Mosque (Oslo): Large community center
  • Bergen Mosque: Main mosque in Bergen
  • Trondheim Mosque: Serves university city

Oslo has over 50 mosques serving diverse Muslim communities.

Are There Many Muslims in Norway?

Norway has approximately 200,000 Muslims (3.4% of population):

  • Pakistani origin: Largest group, established since 1970s
  • Somali refugees: Significant community
  • Iraqi and Syrian: Refugee communities
  • Turkish and Moroccan: Established presence
  • Bosnian Muslims: 1990s refugees
  • Converts: Growing number

Muslims concentrate in Oslo (largest), Bergen, and Trondheim. The Pakistani community is particularly well-established.

Is Norway Safe for Muslims?

Norway is very safe for Muslims:

Positives:

  • One of world’s safest countries
  • Strong rule of law
  • Constitutional religious protections
  • Multicultural society in cities
  • Low crime rates
  • Efficient healthcare and services

Considerations:

  • 2019 mosque attack heightened security awareness
  • Some far-right activity exists
  • Rural areas less diverse
  • Very expensive country

Norway is extremely safe for Muslim travelers, with excellent social infrastructure.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Oslo

  • Grønland: Muslim neighborhood
  • Viking Ship Museum: Historical treasures
  • Opera House: Stunning architecture
  • Royal Palace: City landmark
  • Best halal options: In the country

Bergen

  • Fjord gateway: Access to famous fjords
  • Bryggen Wharf: UNESCO World Heritage
  • Fish market: Fresh halal seafood
  • Limited halal: But seafood abundant

Tromsø

  • Northern Lights: Best viewing location
  • Arctic Cathedral: Iconic architecture
  • Midnight sun: Summer phenomenon
  • Very limited halal: Bring provisions

Fjord Region

  • Geirangerfjord: Stunning natural wonder
  • Nærøyfjord: UNESCO site
  • Scenic drives: Breathtaking landscapes
  • Self-catering: Prepare your own halal meals

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Oslo for halal: Best options in Grønland
  2. Salmon is king: Norwegian seafood is exceptional
  3. Very expensive: Budget accordingly
  4. Summer visits: Midnight sun affects prayer times
  5. Winter visits: Northern Lights, but limited daylight
  6. Pack layers: Weather changes quickly
  7. Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
  8. English widespread: Easy to communicate