Toronto, located in the heart of Canada, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a unique experience for Muslim travellers. Recognized for its Muslim-friendly essence, Canada ensures cities like Toronto are inclusive and welcoming. With a population of over 2.7 million people, Toronto is home to a large Muslim community, offering a wealth of halal food in Canada options, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore Islamic culture, heritage, and cuisine. See our halal food guide for dining options. Explore halal food in Toronto for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

The city boasts a wide range of halal restaurants, mosques, and Islamic centers, making it easy for Muslim travellers to find everything they need to make their trip comfortable and enjoyable. Additionally, Toronto is known for its multiculturalism, which means that visitors can experience a variety of different cultures and traditions while exploring the city. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or food, Toronto has something to offer every Muslim traveller.

Is Toronto Muslim-Friendly?

Toronto is extremely Muslim-friendly, one of North America’s best destinations:

  • 500,000+ Muslims: In Greater Toronto Area
  • Excellent halal food: Thousands of options
  • 150+ mosques: Throughout the city
  • Multicultural policy: Canada celebrates diversity
  • Established communities: South Asian, Arab, Somali, Turkish
  • World-class city: Safe, clean, modern

Toronto rivals London and New York for Muslim-friendliness in the Western world.

Does Toronto Have Halal Food?

Toronto has exceptional halal food availability:

Best areas for halal food:

  • Scarborough: South Asian halal hub
  • Thorncliffe Park: Little Pakistan
  • Mississauga: Large Muslim community
  • North York: Various halal options
  • Downtown: Growing halal scene

Cuisines available:

  • South Asian: Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi
  • Middle Eastern: Lebanese, Syrian, Egyptian
  • Afghan: Excellent kebabs and rice dishes
  • Somali: East African cuisine
  • Turkish: Döner and pide
  • Halal Chinese: Hui-style restaurants
  • Fast food: Many chains have halal locations

Popular halal spots:

  • Paramount Fine Foods (Lebanese chain)
  • Lahore Tikka House (Pakistani)
  • Afghan restaurants on Danforth
  • Halal poutine shops

Tip: Use Zabihah app for comprehensive listings.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Toronto?

Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Mosque in Mississauga is the largest in the GTA:

  • One of North America’s largest
  • Multi-purpose Islamic center
  • Hosts annual ISNA Convention
  • Capacity for 5,000+

Other significant mosques:

  • Masjid Toronto (Dundas): Large downtown mosque
  • Jami Mosque (Dundas): Historic community mosque
  • Salaheddin Mosque (Scarborough): Major South Asian mosque
  • Nugget Mosque: Large community center

Toronto has over 150 mosques serving diverse communities.

Are There Many Muslims in Toronto?

Greater Toronto Area has 500,000+ Muslims (8%+ of population):

  • Pakistani origin: Largest group
  • Arab communities: Lebanese, Egyptian, Syrian, Palestinian
  • Somali community: Large and established
  • Bangladeshi and Indian: Significant presence
  • Afghan community: Growing numbers
  • Turkish, Iranian, Indonesian: Various communities
  • Converts: Active revert community

Toronto’s Muslim community is diverse, well-integrated, and influential in city life.

Is Toronto Safe for Muslims?

Toronto is extremely safe for Muslims:

Positives:

  • One of world’s safest major cities
  • Canadian multiculturalism policy
  • Strong human rights protections
  • Visible Muslim community (hijab common)
  • Halal lifestyle completely normal
  • Excellent public services

Considerations:

  • Occasional isolated incidents
  • Winter can be very cold
  • Cost of living is high

Toronto is one of the safest and most welcoming cities for Muslims anywhere in the world.

Top Muslim-Friendly Experiences

Downtown Toronto

  • CN Tower: Iconic landmark
  • ROM (Royal Ontario Museum): World-class exhibits
  • Distillery District: Historic neighborhood
  • Halal dining: Various options

Scarborough

  • South Asian food hub: Best halal variety
  • Scarborough Bluffs: Natural beauty
  • Cultural immersion: Authentic cuisines

Niagara Falls (Day Trip)

  • Natural wonder: Stunning waterfalls
  • Clifton Hill: Family entertainment
  • Halal restaurants: Available in the area
  • 1.5 hours from Toronto: Easy day trip

Mississauga

  • ISNA Mosque: Visit the large complex
  • Square One: Major shopping mall
  • Suburban Muslim community: Excellent halal

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Scarborough for food: Best halal variety
  2. Download Zabihah: Comprehensive halal directory
  3. Visit ISNA: Large Islamic center
  4. Friday prayers: Many options throughout city
  5. Winter planning: December-February very cold
  6. TTC transit: Efficient public transport
  7. Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  8. Diverse city: 50% foreign-born population