Is Model Gigi Hadid Muslim?

Khadija Ahmed

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August 21, 2023
Gigi Hadid in front of a mosque to signify her family heritage

Gigi Hadid, born Jelena Noura Gigi Hadid, is a well-known American supermodel who was born on 23rd April 1995. In the world of fashion, her name and surname shared with her sister Bella Hadid, has become iconic and thanks to recent collaborations with Tommy Hilfiger and Reebok, she has become an unstoppable force in the industry.

But one of the main questions Muslims ask when they hear Gigi's name is, "Is Gigi Hadid a Muslim?". It's time to uncover whether this International Model of the Year has embraced Islam.

Are Gigi Hadid's parents Muslim? 🕌

Gigi Hadid is the daughter of Mohamed Hadid and Yolanda Hadid. Her father, Mohamed, is of Palestinian origin (like the parents of DJ Khaled) and has been vocal about his Muslim faith. Bella was reported to have told a magazine that Mohamed "was always religious, and always prayed with us."

Gigi and her siblings (Bella and Anwar) were raised in a multi-religious environment though, as her mother Yolanda is Christian and of Dutch descent.

It appears that the Hadid household was one that embraced both religious beliefs. Gigi has openly shared that they celebrated both Christmas and Eid. This openness to multiple faiths might have led to a tolerance of both religions at an early age.

Gigi Hadid often questioned about her religion and affiliation to Islam

So, is Gigi actually Muslim? 🤔

In 2017, Gigi publicly expressed her solidarity with the Muslim community in light of President Trump's travel ban for those coming from certain countries. This was one of the first times she was vocal about her stance on the "Muslim ban" and she actively protested in New York City.

Gigi Hadid is also deeply proud of her Palestinian roots. She has openly spoken about her heritage and has shown support for the Palestinian cause on several occasions. She's also talked about the importance of teaching her daughter Khai, who she shares with singer Zayn Malik, about her mixed heritage, including her Palestinian roots.

Currently Gigi Hadid has not publicly identified herself as a practising Muslim. However faith can never be inferred, deduced by others and it is only for Allah to judge who has belief and who does not.

Should Gigi Hadid be a role model for Muslim women?

Regardless of her religious beliefs, Gigi Hadid is no doubt a role model for many young women around the globe. She represents a fusion of cultures, brings awareness to social causes, and champions tolerance and understanding. It's her embodiment of these universal values that truly connects with people, beyond any specific religious affiliation.

Alongside her sister Bella Hadid, Gigi continues to champion an inter-faith world and fights for the liberation of those under oppression, regardless of skin colour or religion.