The United States of America is a diverse and multicultural country that welcomes visitors from all over the world, including Muslim travelers. With a population of over 3.5 million Muslims, the US offers a range of experiences and opportunities for Muslim travelers to explore and enjoy. From vibrant cities to scenic natural landscapes, the US has something for everyone. Learn more in our halal food guides. Explore halal food in United States for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

Muslim travelers can find halal food, prayer facilities, and accommodations that cater to their needs. Additionally, the US is home to many Islamic centers and mosques, providing opportunities for Muslim travelers to connect with local communities and engage in religious activities. Despite recent political tensions, the US remains a popular destination for Muslim travelers seeking adventure, education, and cultural exchange.

Is the United States Muslim-Friendly?

The United States is moderately Muslim-friendly with strong constitutional protections:

  • 3.5 million Muslims: Diverse, well-integrated community
  • 2,700+ mosques: Across all 50 states
  • Halal food in cities: Excellent in major metros
  • Religious freedom: First Amendment protection
  • Diverse origins: Arab, South Asian, African American, convert communities
  • Multicultural cities: New York, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles

The US offers good Muslim infrastructure in urban areas, though rural regions have limited options.

Does the United States Have Halal Food?

Halal food is available in major US cities:

New York City:

  • Jackson Heights (Queens): South Asian halal hub
  • Bay Ridge (Brooklyn): Arab community
  • Manhattan: Halal carts throughout the city
  • Famous Halal Guys food cart chain originated here

Chicago:

  • Devon Avenue: Little India and Pakistan
  • Bridgeview: Arab community

Los Angeles:

  • Anaheim (Little Arabia): Excellent Middle Eastern
  • Artesia: South Asian halal

Detroit/Dearborn:

  • Largest Arab-American community: Extensive halal infrastructure
  • Nearly all restaurants halal in Dearborn

Houston:

  • Hillcroft area: International halal options
  • Large South Asian and Arab communities

Washington DC:

  • Falls Church/Tyson’s: Large Muslim community

Tip: Use Zabihah app—the most comprehensive halal restaurant database for the US.

What Is the Largest Mosque in the United States?

Islamic Center of America (Dearborn, Michigan) is the largest:

  • Capacity for 3,000 worshippers
  • Shia mosque serving large Lebanese community
  • Beautiful architecture with 10 minarets
  • Cultural center and school attached

Other significant mosques:

  • Islamic Society of North America (ISNA): Major Sunni organization (Indiana)
  • Dar Al-Hijrah (Falls Church, VA): Large East Coast mosque
  • Islamic Cultural Center (New York): Manhattan landmark
  • Diyanet Center of America (Maryland): Turkish-style complex

Are There Many Muslims in the United States?

The US has approximately 3.5 million Muslims (1.1% of population):

  • South Asian origin: Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi (largest group)
  • Arab origin: Lebanese, Egyptian, Palestinian, Syrian
  • African American: Indigenous Muslim community
  • African immigrants: Somali, Nigerian, Egyptian
  • Converts: Growing number of American converts
  • Southeast Asian: Indonesian, Malaysian

Major concentrations in New York, California, Texas, Illinois, Michigan, and Florida.

Is the United States Safe for Muslims?

The US is generally safe for Muslims with some considerations:

Positives:

  • Strong legal protections for religious freedom
  • Millions of Muslims live freely
  • Anti-discrimination laws
  • Diverse, accepting major cities
  • Active civil rights organizations (CAIR, MPAC)

Considerations:

  • Post-9/11 some travel restrictions and scrutiny
  • Occasional hate incidents
  • Political polarization around Muslim issues
  • CBP questioning can occur at borders
  • Rural areas less diverse

Major cities are welcoming. Muslim tourists generally have positive experiences.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

New York City

  • Jackson Heights: South Asian halal paradise
  • Brooklyn: Arab communities
  • Manhattan: Halal carts everywhere
  • Central Park, Times Square: Major attractions

Dearborn, Michigan

  • Arab American capital: Most Muslim-friendly US city
  • Islamic Center of America: Largest mosque
  • Authentic Middle Eastern: Lebanese cuisine

Los Angeles

  • Little Arabia (Anaheim): Excellent halal
  • Hollywood, Santa Monica: Major attractions
  • Diverse communities: Various cuisines

Washington DC

  • National Mall: Free museums and monuments
  • Falls Church area: Good halal options
  • Historical significance: American democracy

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Download Zabihah: Best halal restaurant finder for US
  2. Dearborn is special: Most Muslim-friendly city
  3. Major cities best: NYC, LA, Chicago, Houston have extensive halal
  4. Visa considerations: Apply well in advance for certain countries
  5. Tipping culture: 15-20% expected at restaurants
  6. Currency: US Dollar (USD)
  7. Prayer rooms: Major airports have chapels
  8. Driving: Often necessary outside major cities