A short history of Islam in Scottish Borders, United Kingdom

Islam is a relatively new religion in Scotland Borders, United Kingdom. The first Muslims in the area arrived in the late 1970s, with the first mosque established in Galashiels in 1983. Since then, the Muslim population has grown steadily, with the 2011 census indicating that there were over 1,500 Muslims living in the region. As of 2021, the Muslim population is estimated to be over 2,000.

The first Muslims to move to the Borders were mainly from the Middle East, with a few coming from Pakistan and India. Most of the new arrivals were young men looking for work, and they were attracted by the area’s low cost of living and the opportunity to practice their faith in a tolerant environment. As the Muslim population grew, the first mosques were established in Galashiels and Hawick, and more recently in Kelso and Peebles.

The Borders’ Muslim community has been active in promoting interfaith dialogue and community cohesion. The Borders Interfaith Council, established in 2001, has brought together religious leaders from different faith backgrounds to foster understanding and collaboration. The Borders has also seen the establishment of a number of Islamic charities, including the Borders Islamic Centre, which provides education and cultural programmes to local Muslims.

What is the approximate population of Muslims in Scottish Borders, United Kingdom?

According to the 2011 census, there were 1,539 Muslims living in the Scottish Borders. This number is estimated to have grown to approximately 2,000 in 2021.

When have the first Muslims moved to Scottish Borders, United Kingdom?

The first Muslims moved to Scottish Borders in the late 1970s. The first mosque was established in Galashiels in 1983.

What are the current demographics of Muslims in Scottish Borders, United Kingdom?

The Muslim population in Scottish Borders is made up of a diverse range of backgrounds, including individuals from the Middle East, Pakistan, India, and beyond. The majority of Muslims in the region are from a Sunni background, although there are also some Shia Muslims.

Which is more prominent in Scottish Borders, United Kingdom – Shia or Sunni Islam?

The majority of Muslims in Scottish Borders are of the Sunni denomination, although there is a small minority of Shia Muslims. The exact numbers of Shia and Sunni Muslims in the region are not known, as the 2011 census did not ask respondents to specify their denomination.

What are the main mosques in Scottish Borders, United Kingdom?

There are four main mosques in the Scottish Borders:

• Galashiels Mosque – established in 1983, this is the oldest mosque in the region.
• Hawick Mosque – established in 1998.
• Kelso Mosque – established in 2005.
• Peebles Mosque – established in 2008.

The Borders Islamic Centre, located in Galashiels, is the main hub of the local Muslim community. The centre provides educational and cultural programming, and also has a library, prayer room, and cafeteria.