We are the Dawoodi Bohra community of Birmingham
The Dawoodi Bohra families of Birmingham have lived and worked peacefully in and around Birmingham since the 1970s. Our masjid – or mosque – is called Saifee Masjid and is a central meeting point for over 160 families in our community.
Who We Are
In 1970, a group of Dawoodi Bohras, predominantly from East Africa, chose to settle in Birmingham. In 1975, they formed the jamaat (the officially registered local community) of Birmingham Dawoodi Bohras. In the beginning, there were 30 members belonging to 12 families, working hard in local factories, retail outlets and the NHS.
Weoley Church Hall in Selly Oak was the community’s first home. Facilities were limited, but the community grew and, following a few relocations, found a more permanent home in the early 1990s in Oldbury. With a solid foundation, the community attracted more Dawoodi Bohras to settle in Birmingham and, year on year, numbers have continued to grow. We currently number around 490 members from 160 families.
Our Masjid
Saifee Masjid – our mosque – is in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham. Today, we have one of the most beautiful masjids in the UK, unique in that it comprises a school and can accommodate over a thousand people, with two car parks and a large sports hall used for major activities.
The history of our masjid starts in 2007 when the land was purchased. After securing planning permission and raising funds, construction started in May 2010. In August of 2017, the leader of the Dawoodi Bohras, His Holiness Syedna Muffadal Saifuddin, formally inaugurated the masjid and named it Saifee Masjid.
Our Community
The Bohras of Birmingham’s strength is its people. The community is a mix of many nationalities and languages. Over 70% of our members are professionals and business owners, including teachers, medics, doctors, nurses, dentists, opticians, pharmacists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, radiographers and many more who proudly work for the NHS and provide an essential service, not just to their community, but to the nation as a whole. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, these tireless women and men have been unparalleled in their work.
The community also has professionals in other sectors, including civil service, marketing and PR, banking, travel, and food.
