A holiday gift guide for the Muslims in your life
Here are some present ideas to give to loved ones this festive season, all from independent brands
The end of the year always brings celebration and reflection, and for many, the holiday season is also a time for giving.
From journals and fragrances to modest fashion staples and homeware, we’ve spotlighted some great gifts for your loved ones, all from Muslim-owned independent brands.
The Desi Doll Company
The Desi Doll Company specialises in Islamic-inspired educational toys and books for children. The brand was founded in 2008 by Farzana Rahman, a mother of three, after she struggled to find fun and engaging ways for her children to learn more about Islam. Its interactive books and plush toys make meaningful gifts for young children — from Arabic alphabet puzzles to daily dua books.
Ayeeyo’s Blends
For any tea lovers looking for an alternative to their everyday English breakfast or earl grey, Ayeeyo’s Blends is the perfect gift. Founded by Hamda Issa-Salwe and inspired by her grandmother, Ayeeyo’s Blends celebrates her Somali heritage and its rich tea culture. Each jar of the signature tea spices is blended by hand from a recipe passed down through generations.
The Documented Life
This journal is packed with thoughtful prompts inspired by African proverbs, reflective questions and space to write freely, making it an ideal gift for anyone looking to slow down and reconnect with themselves.
Hulm Club membership
Hulm Club is London’s first Muslim social and co-working space. Membership is a gift that lasts all year, offering access to workshops, talks and events. It’s great for the entrepreneur in your life who is looking for a space to connect with other Muslim creatives in the capital.
Artz-i Islamic Art & Gifts
Based in the heart of Bradford, Artz-i is the UK’s first and largest Islamic art gallery and shop. From calligraphy pieces to original hand paintings, Artz-i curates modern and traditional Islamic art, sourced from markets across the world, including Istanbul, Granada, Isfahan, Fez and Cairo. Its shop has a wide selection of gifts to choose from.
Amyra London
Amyra London focuses on making hijabs from premium fabrics — from luxe velvet, to silk chiffon and satin silk. The scarves come in various designs and colours, and the brand also uses eco-friendly packaging and encourages donations of old hijabs to charity.
Once Upon a Dua
Once Upon a Dua was started by a husband and wife team, Jayda and Ash Zaman, who wanted to create faith-inspired baby and children’s products with a Scandinavian feel. Their pieces include keepsake dolls, weaning sets, dinnerware and decor. Each purchase is part of the company’s Global Giving Initiative, where a portion of proceeds is donated to charitable projects around the world, helping provide essentials like water, food and education.
Mama Soak
Mama Soak offers an organic range of skincare for mothers including bath soaks and body oils. Products are delivered in plastic-free, zero-waste packaging. The brand also donates 2% of all profits to local charities and community projects supporting mothers, and they regularly donate hampers with pregnancy or birth essentials. A perfect treat for the mother in your life.
Rhokea
After years of struggling to find jewellery that didn’t irritate her sensitive skin, Dr Eman Butt and her husband founded Rhokea — a titanium-only everyday jewellery brand. The use of titanium means the jewellery is lightweight, waterproof, tarnish-resistant and hypoallergenic.
Ar Rayaan Scents
Founded by Riarn Mahmood in November 2020, Ar Rayaan Scents offers an array of unisex fragrances with rich oud notes. Products include classic oils, room sprays, beard oils and car diffusers, with scents ranging from musky floral tones to sweet notes of lemon, peach and rose.
