Number of Mosques in Bangladesh Surpasses 350,000, Dhaka Division Tops the List

The number of mosques across Bangladesh has surpassed 350,000, reflecting the continued expansion of religious infrastructure and the growing role of mosques in the country's spiritual, educational and social development.

According to the latest divisional statistics released by the Islamic Foundation's Coordination Department, Bangladesh currently has 350,465 mosques nationwide. The updated figures were officially published on 6 July, providing a comprehensive overview of mosque distribution across the country's eight administrative divisions.
 

The report shows that Dhaka Division has the highest number of mosques, with 75,956 registered places of worship. Officials attribute the division's leading position to its large population, extensive geographical coverage and the presence of numerous urban centers and rural communities.

Chattogram Division ranks second with 63,703 mosques, reflecting its significant population and broad geographic area.

The statistics for the remaining divisions are as follows:

• Rangpur Division: 45,792 mosques
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• Rajshahi Division: 45,679 mosques
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• Barishal Division: 35,691 mosques
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• Khulna Division: 34,586 mosques
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• Mymensingh Division: 31,212 mosques
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• Sylhet Division: 22,006 mosques, the lowest among the eight divisions 
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The official document was signed by Md Mohiuddin, Director of the Coordination Department of the Islamic Foundation, and carries the approval of the organization's Director General and Deputy Director (Coordination).

Officials said the database is updated regularly to maintain accurate records of religious institutions across the country. The information also supports administrative planning, policy formulation and initiatives related to the promotion of Islamic education and religious services.

Mosques in Bangladesh serve purposes far beyond the five daily prayers. In many communities, they function as centers for Islamic education, Qur'an recitation classes, moral instruction for children, religious lectures and community engagement.

Throughout the year, mosques also host various charitable and humanitarian activities, including the collection and distribution of zakat and sadaqah, community iftar programs during Ramadan, Taraweeh prayers, and assistance for families in need.

In many rural areas, mosques continue to play an important role in strengthening social harmony. Community members often gather there not only for worship but also for discussions, local initiatives and efforts aimed at promoting mutual cooperation and resolving community issues peacefully.
 

Religious scholars note that the mosque has historically remained one of the most influential institutions in Muslim society, serving as a place of worship, education and social development. They say the continued growth in the number of mosques reflects both population expansion and the importance attached to religious practice in daily life.

Bangladesh's Constitution recognizes Islam as the state religion, and more than 90 percent of the country's population identifies as Muslim. As new residential areas, towns and villages continue to develop, additional mosques are being established to meet the needs of growing communities.

The latest figures illustrate the continued expansion of Bangladesh's religious infrastructure while highlighting the enduring role of mosques as centers of faith, education, charity and community life throughout the country.