Sint Maarten is a small and beautiful land in the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Caribbean region of North America. The Islamic community here is reflected by the cultural heritage and diversity of this region. However, only about 2500 Muslims live in the Netherlands, 1000 of which are in the Caribbean Netherlands. The Muslims of Sint Maarten mostly comprise immigrants who came from countries like Lebanon and Syria. These people migrated here during the oppression, either as slaves or workers from these countries. A few Muslims later migrated from the Middle Eastern countries and settled in Sint Maarten, making it their home.
The cultural diversity and traditional environment of Sint Maarten have been derived from different religions, including Islam. Muslims are the minority in the country, yet it has great social and cultural effects. This rich and long history and legacy of Sint Maarten are the results of migration, international affairs, and colonization.
Prayer times in Sint Maarten or any other country are affected by your geographical location and your time zone. The Muslim and Quran website and app is a great resource as you can easily find the exact prayer time based on your location. These times are based on the sunset, sunrise, and precisely on the Islamic calendar in your region.
The prayer times can change month by month and are different in summers and winters. Hence, it is ideal to get the mobile app and track your location easily to get the daily prayer timing and notification when it is time. This app contributes to keeping Muslims updated about their daily prayer at home or traveling.
Sint Maarten Islamic Center is one of the most important and popular organizations established for Muslims of Sint Maarten. The main cause for its establishment was to provide Muslims with a place to unite, perform daily prayers, and celebrate cultural events with each other. Many social and traditional activities are conducted at this center.
Not just that, Quran classes, in addition to Islamic sessions, are provided there. This place is in all its charm during Ramadan when it is a house to perform Taraweeh and host iftar and gatherings. This helps promote unity among the small Muslim community of Sint Maarten. Islamic festivals like Eid are also celebrated there so Muslims can come together and celebrate after fasting for a month. This center plays an important role in the well-being and education of Muslims on the Island.
The availability of Halal food in Sint Maarten can be questionable depending on the Muslim minority residing there. However, Halal dining places are available more than you expect and the number is growing based on the cultural diversity of the Island. These restaurants are made to meet the needs of the Muslim population as well as the tourists coming to the country.
Al Pasha is located near 15 Airport Road in Simpson Bay. It is a very famous and well-known restaurant that offers Halal Food. You can choose Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine, including delicious food items like Kebabs, Falafel, & different types of platters. They also offer Vegan foods. Hence, they are famous among the Non-Muslim population. There are many other food places also offering vegan and halal food options to cater to the needs of the Muslim community in Sint Maarten.