Your Guide to the Best Islamic Book Shops in UK

Catering to all the different tastes in the Islamic community, the United Kingdom houses plenty of Islamic bookshops with all kinds of offerings. In this article, we’re uncovering the best Islamic book shops in UK.

From the heart of London to Leicester and beyond, these book stores offer a variety of books in Arabic, English, and Urdu, covering a spectrum of topics from classical scholars to contemporary discussions on Islam. 

The Best Islamic Book Shops in UK

Here, we’ll dive into the offerings of Al-Badr, Al-Hidaayah, Darul Kutub, Ismaeel Books, Darussalam, Dar Al Taqwa, and Al-Kunuz—some of the best bookstores in the UK.

Al-Badr Bookstore

Al-Badr Bookstore, situated right in the heart of London, is a prominent hub for Islamic literature enthusiasts.

This bookstore offers a diverse collection, offering both Arabic and English books spanning various aspects of Islam. Mostly known for its focus on classical scholars’ works, rare publications, and contemporary Islamic discourse, Al-Badr Bookstore serves a wide audience of Muslims in the UK.

The shop also has a user-friendly website, featuring a Book Request section, allowing visitors to request specific titles and patiently await their availability. 

Some of the best selections at the store include significant Islamic texts such as Al-Jami’ Al-Sahih – Al-Imam Al-Bukhari and Al-Bidaya Wa Al-Nihaya – Al-Hafiz Ibn Kathir.

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Al-Hidaayah Bookstore

Founded in 1993, Al-Hidaayah Bookstore managed to grow into an established enterprise in the UK, serving a pivotal role in the Muslim community. 

Recognized as a market leader, it specializes in Islamic books, making them available online across the English-speaking globe. The bookstore also has a mailing list, offering timely updates and notifying loyal customers of product releases. 

With a commitment to global outreach, the bookstore offers worldwide delivery, and in case of need, a refund option is available. The collections cover various categories, including Islamic books for children, literature on aqidah, tafsir, sirah, Quran, and hadith.

Darul Kutub

With a rich history covering many years, Darul Kutub is a cornerstone for British Muslims, catering to Darul Uloom, Makaatibs, Primary Madrasas, and Islamic shops in the UK.

Distinguishing itself beyond books, this store offers a wide array of Islamic products, including clothing, fragrances, electronics, food, and children’s items.

Notably, Darul Kutub imports a wide range of Islamic goods from around the world, ensuring Muslims in the UK can get everything the need without the hassle of global shipping.

Expanding their repertoire, the bookstore has also introduced an extensive collection of Arabic and Urdu books. On top of that, to address trade customers, Darul Kutub welcomes inquiries for trade prices through email at darulkutubuk.com.

Ismaeel Books

Ismaeel Books, a prominent UK-based publisher and online bookstore, specializes mostly in the expansive world of Islamic Sciences. 

Serving a global audience, they offer international shipping for reading enthusiasts worldwide. The bookstore also offers a diverse selection of Islamic books covering Tafsīr, Ḥadīth, ʿAqīdah, and Arabic, with plans for expanding into Mālikī, Shāfiʿī, and Ḥanbalī fiqh. 

Collaborating with various publishers from countries such as Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and the UK, Ismaeel Books provides books in Arabic, English, and Urdu to accommodate the multilingual audience. 

Additionally, the Book Requesting section allows you to inquire about specific titles not listed on the website.

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Darussalam

Darussalam, initially centered on printing the Quran and its translations, has evolved into a global service for publishing the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah. 

Founded by Abdul Malik Mujahid in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Darussalam has expanded its influence with bases in both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The bookstore, operating from Birmingham in the UK, collaborates with renowned scholars and authors, ensuring a high-quality selection of authentic Islamic books. 

With a commitment to global outreach, Darussalam provides door-to-door delivery for its products, reaching numerous nations. The store’s translation efforts have rendered the Quran accessible in 26 languages. 

Customers also benefit from an easy return policy, a money-back guarantee, and 24/7 online support.

Dar Al Taqwa

Dar Al Taqwa, a solid presence serving the UK community for over 35 years, is a valuable resource for Islamic literature enthusiasts. 

With a physical store located in London, the bookstore focuses on English-language books, particularly specializing in Sufi literature and materials for memorizing the Quran, prayer guides, and more. 

The bookshop’s website also features a book blog, hosting review articles that serve as a helpful guide for readers seeking insightful recommendations. 

Beyond its role as a bookstore, Dar Al Taqwa extends its services to the community by offering assistance in conducting Islamic marriages and providing support in matters of divorce following Shari’ah Law.

Al-Kunuz

Al-Kunuz, based in Leicester, is a versatile Islamic bookstore that sells a substantial collection of Arabic, English, and Urdu books to suit all tastes. 

The store values customer satisfaction, offering a flexible return policy within 7 days of purchase. Also catering to traders, Al-Kunuz provides the option to purchase publications at wholesale prices, facilitating bulk orders.

The bookstore promises delivery of publications not in stock within 12 weeks, with the option for expedited 15-day delivery at an additional cost. Al-Kunuz also offers swift delivery across the UK within 7 days and extends its services globally, facilitating overseas delivery. 

As an extra incentive, orders exceeding £50 receive a complimentary Leather Bookmarker, adding a thoughtful touch to customers’ purchases.

To Wrap Up

In closing, these Islamic bookstores in the UK stand as invaluable hubs, offering not just books but a bridge to knowledge and community. 

From the historical significance of Darussalam to the diverse offerings of Al-Kunuz, each store contributes uniquely to the world of Islamic literature in the UK.