At Yellowknife Shia, our primary goal is to serve as a welcoming resource for any Muslim—be they resident, newcomer, or visitor—who is living in or traveling through Yellowknife (commonly referred to as YK). We strive to help individuals find like-minded members of the Islamic community, learn about local religious activities, and stay connected to both culture and faith. Our hope is that, despite being in the northernmost regions of Canada, you will feel completely at home and supported in practicing your religion.
Yellowknife is the vibrant capital city of the Northwest Territories (NWT), boasting a population of approximately 20,000 people. Situated near the Arctic region, it is known for its unique northern landscapes, cultural diversity, and the warmth of its close-knit community. The local economy is significantly influenced by the mining industry, with operations that have long been central to the city’s development. Beyond mining, Yellowknife is also rich in cultural experiences, historical attractions, and community engagement initiatives.
Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre:
This museum houses an array of
exhibits showcasing the history of the Northwest Territories. It includes information on Indigenous
cultures, regional fauna, local geology, and the story of Yellowknife’s evolution from a small
settlement to a bustling northern hub.The Visitor Information Centre, located within the museum,
offers valuable resources and up-to-date facts about city events, tours, and attractions.
Education:
Yellowknife’s public education is administered primarily through
two school boards: Yellowknife Education District No. 1 (often referred to as YK1), which is a
public district, and the Yellowknife Catholic Schools. Both systems serve students from kindergarten
through high school, offering a mix of academic and extracurricular programs.
Parks & Outdoor Attractions:
Within the city limits, visitors can explore
several parks and lakes, perfect for picnics, fishing, and spending time in nature.Just outside
Yellowknife, along the scenic Ingraham Trail, countless hiking spots, campgrounds, and even
aurora-viewing sites await those eager to experience the breathtaking northern lights. Whether you
enjoy camping under the midnight sun in summer or cross-country skiing in winter, Yellowknife offers
a wealth of outdoor adventure opportunities.
Demographics & Community:
Alhamdulillah, Yellowknife is home to a diverse
Muslim population drawn from various regions across the globe, including Pakistan, India,
Bangladesh, Iran, Somalia, Sudan, Egypt, and other African countries. With roughly 200 Muslims
residing in the city, the community is small but remarkably active and inclusive. Regular
gatherings, religious events, and social programs ensure that Muslims here can maintain a strong
sense of faith and fellowship.
Places of Worship & Facilities:
The city has a dedicated local mosque (and a
brand new masjid building currently under construction) where prayer services are held, and
community members come together to observe Islamic occasions and festivals. Halal food and
groceries, as well as a modest selection of spices and other specialty items, can be purchased at
the Independent Grocers. Additionally, there is a local restaurants that serves halal options and a
shawarma shop at the mall.
Due to Yellowknife’s geographical location, there are unique considerations regarding salat (prayer) schedules, especially during extreme daylight and nighttime hours in different seasons. Generally, three primary methods are observed by community members:
Makkah Timings
Edmonton Timings
Local Yellowknife Timings
Furthermore, for those adhering to Fiqh-e-Jafferiya, local prayer schedule (shown above) is strictly followed. Despite slight differences in practice, the community remains unified in their shared devotion.
Surah-e-Yaseen & Dua-e-Kumail:
Held every Thursday evening, this gathering
provides an opportunity for spiritual reflection, communal prayer, and a deeper exploration of
Islamic teachings. These practices are observed at our location before magrib salat paryer in the
summers and after prayers in the winter. You are encouraged to join for the prayer and dua without
hesitation.
Celebratory Dates & Commemorations:
Whether it is Eid, Muharram, or other
important Islamic events, the Yellowknife Muslim community arranges various programs for worship,
fellowship, and community support. All members are encouraged to participate.
At Yellowknife Shia, we take pride in ensuring that everyone—regardless of faith—feels informed, welcomed, and supported. Whether you are seeking information about Islam, looking to attend a community event, or simply curious about local customs, we invite you to connect with us.
Below is our information listed. Click on the map for directions to our location. Ask for Mr. Syed Hyder Raza Rizvi.
Email us at: contact@yk-shia.com
Call us at: +1 (867) 446-3997
Visit us at: 150 Dagenais Dr, Yellowknife, NT X1A 3J9