Islam in Egypt: A History from 641 AD to Today

Egypt is the land of pharaohs, pyramids, and also hosts a rich and vibrant Islamic heritage. Before your start planning your trip to Egypt, you better know about religions of Egypt. Indeed, the arrival of Islam in the 7th century CE marked a turning point, shaping Egyptian culture, architecture, and society. Understanding Islam in Egypt is not only for religious scholars. It is important for any traveler who wants to appreciate the country more fully.

The constitution of Egypt states that “Islam is the religion of the state. It also states that the principles of Islamic Sharia are the main source of legislation”. Islam is the third of the Monotheistic Abrahamic Faith. Islam originated with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century. Muslims believe that Muhammad is the last of all religious prophets and that the Qur’an was revealed to him by God. Islam derives from the word submission and obedience to God is a primary theme in this religion.

Universality of Islam

Unfortunately, it is general tendency of the western media to portray Islam in an erroneous way. They try to create a picture of rigid and fanatical fundamentalists. Of course, this is far from the truth. Islam is a universal religion. It claims to be the true way to Allah for all peoples, for all times. 

The concept of universality in religion requires that it overcomes not only the bounds of geography and nation but also the bounds of time. Only Islam can boast of this feat. For the simple reason that it is a a religion whose teachings are related to the human psyche, i.e., its soul and spirit. Islam emphasizes that any religion which is rooted in the human psyche transcends time and space. As the human psyche is unchangeable, then the religion which is closely connected with it is unchangeable also. 

That is, whatever stage of material development mankind achieves. The psychological needs of man will not change, and Islam will at all times be in a position to satisfy them. The universality of Islam appears at many levels and manifestations:

1- Acceptance of all teaching

2- No compulsion in religion 

3- Equality of Man

The Arab Conquest and the First Mosque in Egypt (639–661 AD)

The history of Islam in Egypt begins in December 639 AD, when the Arab general Amr ibn al-As crossed Sinai with a small army of about 4,000 men. Egypt was then a province of the Byzantine Empire, and most Egyptians were Coptic Christians. After the Byzantine fortress of Babylon fell in 641, Alexandria agreed to surrender, and the last Byzantine troops sailed away in 642.

Amr did not rule from Alexandria. He founded a new garrison town beside the Nile called Fustat, in what is now Old Cairo, and built a mosque at its centre. The Mosque of Amr ibn al-As is the first mosque built in Egypt. It has been rebuilt many times, so nothing of the original remains, but it still stands on the same site, a short walk from the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue.

Egypt did not become Muslim overnight. Christians and Jews kept their churches and synagogues and paid a poll tax called the jizya. Most historians believe Muslims only became the majority several centuries later, through intermarriage, the tax system and the gradual spread of Arabic.

Umayyad and Abbasid Egypt and the Mosque of Ibn Tulun (661–969)

For three centuries Egypt was governed from Damascus by the Umayyad caliphs, and from 750 from Baghdad by the Abbasids. Around 706 Arabic replaced Greek and Coptic as the language of government. Over the following centuries it also became the everyday language of most Egyptians. Coptic survived only as the language of the Church liturgy.

In 868 the Abbasids sent a Turkish officer, Ahmad ibn Tulun, to govern Egypt. He soon ruled almost independently and built a new royal quarter, al-Qata’i. Its great mosque, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, was completed in 879. With its vast open courtyard and unusual spiral minaret, it is the oldest mosque in Cairo that survives largely in its original form.

The Fatimids, the Founding of Cairo and Al-Azhar (969–1171)

In 969 the Fatimids, a Shia Ismaili dynasty from North Africa, conquered Egypt. Their general Jawhar founded a new walled royal city north of Fustat and named it al-Qahira, “the Victorious”. This is the origin of the name Cairo.

A year later, in 970, work began on the Al-Azhar Mosque, completed in 972. It soon became a centre of teaching and is today one of the oldest continuously operating centres of learning in the world. Ironically, it is now the leading institution of Sunni Islam.

The Fatimid rulers were Shia, but most Egyptians remained Sunni. The Fatimids’ most visible legacy is the city itself. The great stone gates of Bab Zuweila, Bab al-Futuh and Bab al-Nasr, built in the 1080s and 1090s, still mark the edges of their city.

Saladin and the Ayyubids: Sunni Islam Restored (1171–1250)

In 1171 Salah al-Din, known in the West as Saladin, ended the Fatimid caliphate and restored Sunni Islam as the official faith of Egypt. He founded Sunni schools, called madrasas, to train scholars and judges.

To defend the city against the Crusaders, Saladin began building the Citadel on a spur of the Muqattam hills in 1176. The Citadel of Saladin remained the seat of Egypt’s rulers for almost 700 years, and it is still the best viewpoint over the minarets of Islamic Cairo.

The Mamluks: Cairo’s Golden Age of Islamic Architecture (1250–1517)

The Mamluks were soldier-slaves, mostly of Turkic and Circassian origin, who seized power in 1250. In 1260 they defeated the Mongols at the Battle of Ain Jalut. Egypt became the strongest state in the Muslim world, and Cairo its greatest city.

The Mamluk sultans and emirs filled Cairo with mosques, madrasas, hospitals and tombs. Most of what visitors now call “Islamic Cairo” dates from this period. Highlights include the Qalawun complex (1284–1285) on al-Muizz Street and the huge Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan (1356–1363) below the Citadel. The Khan el-Khalili bazaar also began in this period, in the late 14th century.

Ottoman Rule, Muhammad Ali and Islam in Modern Egypt (1517–Today)

In 1517 the Ottoman sultan Selim I conquered Egypt, and for three centuries Cairo was a provincial capital of the Ottoman Empire. After Napoleon’s brief invasion (1798–1801), an Ottoman officer, Muhammad Ali Pasha, took power in 1805 and began to modernise the country.

His monument is the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, built on top of the Citadel between 1830 and 1848 in the Ottoman style of Istanbul. Its domes and slim pencil minarets dominate the Cairo skyline. Below the Citadel, the Al-Rifa’i Mosque, completed in 1912, holds the tombs of Egypt’s royal family.

Today about 90% of Egyptians are Muslim, almost all of them Sunni, and most of the remainder are Coptic Christians. Al-Azhar remains the most influential institution of Sunni learning in the world. The call to prayer, Friday prayers, Ramadan and the two Eids still set the rhythm of daily life, as they have for almost 1,400 years.

Visiting Islamic Cairo: Mosques, Dress Code and Etiquette

Islamic Cairo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest collections of medieval Islamic buildings anywhere. You can see the whole history above in a single day.

The Mosques to See

Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, Old Cairo: the site of Egypt’s first mosque, next to Coptic Cairo.

Mosque of Ibn Tulun: a vast courtyard and a spiral minaret you can climb. The Gayer-Anderson Museum is next door.

Al-Azhar Mosque (970–972): an active mosque and university in the Fatimid heart of the city.

Al-Muizz Street: the main street of medieval Cairo, with the Qalawun complex, Bab Zuweila and Khan el-Khalili.

Sultan Hassan and Al-Rifa’i Mosques: two giants facing each other below the Citadel.

Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali: inside the Citadel of Saladin, with the best view over Cairo.

What to Wear

Women: cover shoulders, arms and legs down to the ankle, and bring a light scarf to cover your hair inside mosques.

Men: wear long trousers and a shirt with sleeves. No shorts or vests.

Shoes: you take them off before entering the prayer hall. Carry them in a bag, or leave them with the attendant for a small tip.

Some tourist mosques lend robes at the entrance, but don’t rely on it. Loose, long clothing is also the most comfortable choice for Cairo’s heat.

How to Behave

Avoid visiting during prayer times, especially the Friday noon prayer, when some mosques close to visitors.

Keep your voice low, and never walk directly in front of someone who is praying.

Photography is usually allowed in the main tourist mosques, but always ask before photographing people.

During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in the street during daylight. Restaurants and hotels serve tourists as normal. Evenings around Al-Hussein and Khan el-Khalili are lively and festive.

Visit Islamic Cairo with Us

Our Egyptian Museum, Saladin Citadel and Khan el-Khalili tour takes you to the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali and the bazaar. Our Coptic Cairo tour includes the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As beside the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. For Ibn Tulun, Sultan Hassan, Al-Azhar and al-Muizz Street, ask us to plan a private Islamic Cairo day with your own guide, or browse all our Cairo day tours.

What is Islam and its core principles?

Islam, meaning “submission” in Arabic, is a monotheistic religion emphasizing complete devotion to Allah (God). Its core principles are enshrined in the Quran, believed to be the literal word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Five pillars, the foundation of Islamic practice, guide the lives of believers:

1: The Testimony (Shahada) of Faith:

Laa- Ilah- Ila- Allah, and Muhammad Rasoul Allah.

This testimony has many parts.

“La-Illah” negates that anything or anyone deserves to be worshipped other than Allah.

 “Illa-Allah” affirms that Allah alone truly deserves to be worshipped.

“Muhammad Rasoul Allah” Muhammad is the Prophet and Messenger of the God.

2:  The second pillar is prayer.

Muslims pray to their God five times per day

1.    Fajr, (Dawn prayer)

2.    Dhur (Noon prayer)

3.    Aasr (Afternoon prayer)

4.    Maghrib (Sunset prayer)

5.    Isha (Night prayer).

There are some prerequisites for prayers: Islam, intention, sanity, discretion, and cleanliness of the body and place. Prayer time must have started. You must cover private body parts. You must face Makkah (Mecca).

3. The third pillar is Fasting. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is obligatory upon every Muslim, sane, post-pubescent, and capable of fasting. Other than women experiencing their monthly menses or post-partum bleeding.

4. The fourth pillar is Charity (Zakah). Zakah is required if five conditions are met. These are Islam, freedom, and owning the amount that makes Zakah due. It also requires full and stable ownership. A full year must pass, except for produce.

5. The fifth pillar is the Pilgrimage (Hajj). Hajj is required once in a lifetime for every Muslim who is sane, has reached puberty, is free, and can afford it.

Understanding these principles provides a framework for appreciating the role of Islam in Egyptian daily life. The call to prayer echoes from minarets. Ramadan is important. Mosques are a key part of life in Egypt.

Islam/Muslim Creed

Muslims take their creed from two main sources: the Book of Allah (the Qur’an) and the authentic Sunnah. The Prophet Muhammad did not speak from his own desire.

The Qur’an literary means “what is often recited”. The Qur’an represents the fountainhead of Divine guidance for every Muslim. Its revelation to the Prophet Muhammad, and his practice of it, completed God’s blessing for humanity. It gave us a belief and value system that remains valid for all times.

The Qur’an confirms the revelations given to earlier prophets, even if we cannot access them as first revealed. It will continue to guide those who turn to God with a sincere heart, for all times.

While Sunnah includes the Prophet’s statements and actions, it covers what he said, made, or did. As well as the Prophet’s tacit approvals include anything his companions said or did that he approved of. They also include anything he did not object to. The tacit approval of the prophet is as valid as anything that he said or did himself.

Sunni & Shia Islam

Muslims are Sunni or Shia. They split over a religious and political dispute. The dispute was about who should succeed the Prophet Muhammad. The Shia believe that Ali Ibn Abi Talib was Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law. They believe he was the only Imam chosen by God. The Sunni believe the first three caliphs after the Prophet Muhammad were legitimate leaders. They were Abu Bakr, Omar, and Othman.

In modern times, Sunni and Shia still have different views. They differ on accepted schools of Islamic jurisprudence. They also differ on who is a proper Islamic religious authority. Sunni Muslims account for 80% of the world’s Muslims while Shia accounts for 20% of Muslims worldwide.

Islam came to Egypt in AD 642 from the Arabian Peninsula. Amr Ibn Al Aas led this arrival. He founded Egypt’s first Islamic capital in Al Fustat, now Old Cairo. He also built Africa’s first mosque there, the Mosque of Amr.

The vast majority of Muslims in Egypt are Sunni. Egypt also hosts Al Azhar University, the world’s most important Sunni institution. It is the oldest Islamic institution of higher learning. It was founded in AD 970.

Muslims in Egypt celebrate some festivals which are national holidays

Islamic/Lunar New Year.

Molid El Naby (Prophet’s birthday).

Eid Al Fitr (03 days feast following the fasting month of Ramadan).

Eid Al Adha is a four-day feast. It is also called the Feast of Sacrifice. It begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hajjah. Dhul Hajjah is the last month in the lunar calendar. It takes place during the pilgrimage season. 

Relationships Between Muslims and Non-Muslims in Egypt

Egypt is also home to a significant Christian minority, primarily the Coptic Church. Though Islam is the state religion, the constitution guarantees freedom of religion. Generally, Muslims and non-Muslims coexist peacefully, with a rich history of interfaith dialogue. However, there have been occasional tensions, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding.

Travelers to Egypt should be aware of basic Islamic etiquette. Dressing modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, is a sign of respect. Familiarizing yourself with customs during Ramadan, such as adjusted restaurant hours, can also enhance your experience.

The Egyptian constitution states, “Freedom of belief is absolute.” It also states, “The freedom to practice religious rituals is a right regulated by law.” It adds that establishing places of worship is allowed for followers of Abrahamic religions.

The constitution also states that all citizens are equal under the law. It also makes it a crime to discriminate. It is also illegal to incite hatred based on religion, belief, sex, origin, race, or any other reason. The government officially recognizes Sunni Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, and allows only their adherents to publicly practice their religion and build houses of worship.

A good example of religious tolerance in Egypt is the Old Cairo District. It is known as the “Community of Religions” because it includes holy places for Egypt’s three official religions.

Most Popular Islamic Terminology

Assalaamu Alaikum: A general greeting in Islamic culture, which means, ‘Peace be upon you’.

Caliph: Successor of Mohamed as leader of the Muslim community.

Eid: Means a festivity, a celebration, a feast. 

Fatwa: An Islamic legal ruling or edict. 

Hajj: Pilgrimage to Mecca during the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims are required to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime, if means and health allow. 

Hijab: Veil for women to wear.

Jihad: A struggle or effort in Allah’s cause. The great Jihad is the inward struggle against the passions. The lesser Jihad is a defensive or legal war, to protect the interest of Islam. It is mistakenly called holy war. Jihad is the Muslim obligation to strive to teach, explain, spread, and protect the message of Islam.

Shahada: Confessing or bearing witness to Allah’s unity and Mohamed’s role as messenger. ‘I testify that there is no god but Allah, and Mohamed is his prophet’. A person must recite the shahada to convert to Islam.

Why Understanding Egypt’s Islam Matters?

Egypt’s Islamic heritage is woven into the very fabric of the country. From its history and architecture to its customs and traditions, Islam plays a central role. By understanding Egypt’s Islam, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for this fascinating nation. Whether you’re exploring Cairo’s busy streets or visiting ancient temples, understanding Islam helps you connect with Egypt more deeply. So, come with an open mind and a thirst for knowledge, and let Egypt’s Islam enrich your journey.

FAQs

When did Islam arrive in Egypt?

Islam arrived in Egypt in the 7th century CE, following the Arab-Muslim military conquest led by General Amr ibn al-As between 639 and 642 AD, which ended Byzantine rule over the country.

What percentage of Egyptians are Muslim today?

Today, approximately 92% of Egyptians follow Islam, with Sunni Islam as the predominant branch and a small Shia minority also present.

What are the Five Pillars of Islam?

The Five Pillars are the Shahada (testimony of faith), daily prayer performed five times a day, fasting during Ramadan, charity known as Zakah, and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) for those who are able.

What’s the difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims?

The split originated over who should succeed Prophet Muhammad as leader. Sunnis recognize the first three caliphs as legitimate successors, while Shia Muslims believe leadership belonged to Ali ibn Abi Talib. Today Sunnis make up roughly 80% of Muslims worldwide, and Egypt’s Muslim population is overwhelmingly Sunni.

What is Al-Azhar University?

Al-Azhar, founded in Cairo in AD 970, is considered the world’s most important Sunni Islamic institution and the oldest institution of Islamic higher learning.

Do Muslims and Christians coexist peacefully in Egypt?

Yes, generally. Egypt is home to a significant Coptic Christian minority, and while Islam is the state religion, the constitution guarantees freedom of belief, with a long history of interfaith coexistence alongside occasional tensions.

What Islamic holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

Major celebrations include the Islamic/Lunar New Year, Molid El Naby (the Prophet’s birthday), Eid Al Fitr marking the end of Ramadan, and Eid Al Adha, the four-day Feast of Sacrifice during the Hajj season.

What etiquette should travelers follow regarding Islam in Egypt?

Visitors should dress modestly, especially at religious sites, and be mindful of adjusted business hours and customs during Ramadan as a sign of respect for local traditions.