Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a mosaic of cultures, and this diversity is vividly reflected in its places of worship, including its mosques. Here is a list of the top 10 mosques in Ottawa for Muslims, each serving as a place for prayer and as community centers offering various services and programs.
1. Ottawa Mosque (Ottawa Muslim Association)
The Ottawa Mosque, run by the Ottawa Muslim Association, is the oldest in Ottawa. Located on Northwestern Avenue, it has been a spiritual home to Muslims in Ottawa since the 1960s. The Ottawa Mosque has played a crucial role in fostering community cohesion and cultural understanding among diverse groups in the city.
Beyond offering the five daily prayers, Friday JummahTaraweeh prayers are held during Ramadan, and the mosque actively engages in community services, including educational programs and charity drives. Its long-standing presence has made it a cornerstone of the Muslim community, providing a sense of history and stability.
Address: 251 Northwestern Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 0M1, Canada
2. Assunnah Muslims Association Mosque
Located on St. Laurent Boulevard, the Assunnah Muslims Association Mosque is known for its vibrant community outreach and educational programs. This mosque stands out for its comprehensive approach to Islamic education, offering classes for all age groups, including a renowned weekend Islamic school.
The mosque’s modern architecture and facilities cater to a large congregation. Community iftars during Ramadan and active participation in local charitable activities underscore its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive Muslim community in Ottawa.
Address: 1216 Hunt Club Rd, Ottawa, ON K1V 2P1, Canada
3. Abu Bakr Musalla
The Abu Bakr Musalla, affiliated with the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Cultural and Community Centre, is a beacon of Islamic learning and social service in Ottawa. Situated in the south ecity’s south endfers a wide range of services, including Quranic education, youth programs, and women’s circles.
The mosque is particularly noted for its engaging Friday sermons and its efforts to address contemporary issues facing the Muslim community. Its modern facility is designed to be welcoming to all, reflecting its mission of building bridges within and beyond the Muslim community.
Address: 1023 Merivale Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6A7, Canada
4. Jami Omar Mosque
Jami Omar Mosque, located in the west end of Ottawa, is one of the largest mosques in the city, catering to thousands of Muslims. With its expansive prayer hall and community center, it hosts a number of activities, including daily prayers, educational classes, and community events.
The mosque’s emphasis on youth engagement and interfaith dialogue is commendable, making it a dynamic center for Islamic learning and cultural exchange. Its annual Ramadan programs and Eid celebrations are particularly noteworthy, drawing large crowds from across the city.
Address: 3990 Old Richmond Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 8R5, Canada
5. Masjid Bilal
Located in the east end of Ottawa, Masjid Bilal is renowned for its strong community spirit and its focus on educational and youth programs. The mosque offers a welcoming atmosphere for worshipers of all ages, with special emphasis on providing Islamic education to the younger generation.
Its facilities include a prayer hall and classrooms for Islamic studies. Masjid Bilal is also active in charitable endeavors, often organizing food drives and community clean-up events, reflecting its commitment to serving both the Muslim community and the wider Ottawa population.
Address: 4509 Innes Rd, Orléans, ON K4A 3J7, Canada
6. Ottawa Islamic Centre and Assalam Mosque
The Ottawa Islamic Centre and Assalam Mosque, located on St. Joseph Boulevard, is a hub of Islamic culture and education. The mosque is known for its diverse congregation and its wide range of programs, including Quranic classes, language courses, and recreational activities for children and adults.
The center places a strong emphasis on community welfare, with regular initiatives to support the needy and engage in social justice issues. Its welcoming environment and active participation in community development make it a key player in Ottawa’s Islamic landscape.
Address: 2335 St. Laurent Blvd #100, Ottawa, ON K1G 5G6, Canada
7. SNMC Mosque and Community Centre
The SNMC Mosque and Community Centre offers a comprehensive range of services and programs aimed at promoting Islamic values and community cohesion. Located in the Barrhaven neighborhood, it serves a rapidly growing Muslim community with facilities that include a large prayer hall, library, and gymnasium.
The center is known for its educational programs, including Arabic and Quranic classes, and its active youth group. SNMC’s outreach efforts and interfaith activities underscore its commitment to fostering a harmonious and inclusive community.
Address: 3020 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean, ON K2J 4G3, Canada
8. Kanata Muslim Association Mosque
Serving the western Ottawa suburb of Kanata, the Kanata Muslim Association Mosque is a vibrant community center focused on serving the needs of local Muslims. It provides a range of services, including prayer facilities, Islamic education, and community events.
The mosque is particularly appreciated for its family-oriented approach and its efforts to engage children and youth in Islamic learning and activities. Its community iftars during Ramadan and participation in local charitable causes highlight its commitment to community service and unity.
Address: 351 Sandhill Rd, Kanata, ON K2K 1X7, Canada
9. South Nepean Muslim Community Mosque
The South Nepean Muslim Community (SNMC) Mosque, located in the Barrhaven area of Ottawa, serves as a vibrant center for spiritual, educational and community activities. Established to meet the growing needs of the Muslim community in the south end of Ottawa, the SNMC Mosque offers a wide range of services including daily prayers, Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers, educational classes for all age groups, and various community outreach programs.
It has become a cornerstone for Muslims in the area, promoting Islamic values and fostering a sense of unity and support among its members. The mosque’s modern facilities are designed to accommodate the diverse needs of its congregation, making it an important hub for religious and social engagement.
Address: 3020 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean, ON K2J 4G3, Canada
10.Farooq Azam Mosque
The Farooq Azam Mosque, situated on prime location, stands as a beacon of Islamic faith and community spirit. This mosque is not only a place for worship and spiritual reflection but also serves as a community center where educational and social activities are held to promote understanding and unity among its members.
It offers regular prayers, Quranic studies, and religious guidance to Muslims of all ages. The mosque is committed to fostering a welcoming environment that encourages interfaith dialogue, community service and cultural exchange, making it an integral part of the local Muslim community’s life.
Address: 240 Sunnyside Ave, Ottawa, ON K1S 0R4, Canada
Each of these mosques in Ottawa plays a crucial role in serving the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the Muslim community. They not only provide places for worship but also act as community centers that foster unity, understanding and cooperation among Muslims and the broader community.