Online Dating for British Muslims, and the Relationship with Their Islamic Identities

The increasing use of online matchmaking platforms by young Muslims in Europe and the US reflects a modern adaptation of traditional cultural values to suit contemporary needs. This chapter delves into the relationship between Muslim online matchmaking for British Muslims and their Islamic identities concerning marriage and romantic relationships. The convergence of modern technology and traditional cultural values is explored, as online platforms replace offline actors in the matchmaking process. This investigation provides insights into how conservative and progressive Muslims employ digital technology to navigate and maintain their identities. By employing qualitative methods, the study engages with 11 active users of online dating apps through in-depth online chat interviews. Findings reveal the multifaceted strategies used by participants to engage with potential partners, including utilizing various filter options and employing traditional practices during offline meetings. The study demonstrates the intersection of traditional and modern elements and challenges rigid dichotomies between conservatism and progressivism among Muslim users. This research sheds light on the complex interplay between Islamic identity, marriage, and relationships among British Muslims who use smartphone dating apps. It unveils how these apps offer users the agency to pursue compatible partners based on self-selected religious and cultural parameters, promoting a sense of autonomy within conservative environments. The study concludes by emphasizing the nuanced relationship between online platforms, traditional practices, and the construction of Muslim identity in the context of romantic relationships and marriage.