Canada continues to evolve as a diverse and welcoming society, shaped by the cultures and histories of people from around the world. One of the fastest-growing communities in the country is the Arab population. A new report titled Portrait of the Arab Populations in Canada highlights key demographic trends, languages, education levels, occupations, and social experiences of Arab individuals and families across Canada. This research provides valuable insights into who makes up the Arab population in Canada, where they live, and how they contribute to the social and economic landscape of the country. For newcomers, students, and families exploring Canada as a long-term home, these findings offer a helpful window into community identity and belonging.

The Arab Population in Canada is Growing

From 2001 to 2021, the Arab population in Canada more than tripled. In 2021, it reached 795,665 residents, representing 2.2 percent of the national population. Projections suggest the population could reach between 1.4 and 1.9 million people by 2041. This rapid growth reflects both immigration and the rising number of Canadian-born children within Arab families. It also highlights the long-term presence and roots the community continues to establish in Canada.

Places of Birth: A Wide and Diverse Background

The Portrait of the Arab Populations in Canada shows that the community is not defined by one place of origin. Roughly three in ten Arab residents were born in Canada. Others were born in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and the Arabian Peninsula. The mix of home countries has also shifted over time. While Lebanese immigration was more common in the 1980s and 1990s, recent years have seen higher arrivals from Syria and Iraq due to conflict and global migration trends.

Pathways to Canada: Economic, Family, and Refugee Programs

Canada immigration programs play an important role in shaping the community. Just over half of Arab immigrants who arrived between 1980 and 2021 came through economic pathways. Some arrived as family-sponsored applicants, while others came through refugee protection programs.

For example, most Moroccan, Egyptian, and Algerian-born immigrants came as skilled workers. Meanwhile, many individuals originally from Syria and Iraq came through refugee migration streams. This range of pathways reflects resilience, professional talent, and the pursuit of safety and stability.

Where Arab Communities Live in Canada

Arab communities are widely distributed across the country. Roughly equal numbers live in Quebec and Ontario. Smaller but significant populations live in Alberta and British Columbia. Cultural and language connections influence settlement patterns. For instance, many individuals with ties to Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia have settled in Quebec, where French language use is common both at work and at home. Meanwhile, Ontario has become home to many families from Egypt, Iraq, and the Arabian Peninsula.

Language, Education, and Employment

The Arab population in Canada is highly multilingual. Most speak Arabic alongside English or French. A large share also speaks both official languages, especially in Quebec. This multilingual strength contributes to strong communication in workplaces, schools, and social settings. Education levels are also noteworthy. Half of Arab residents aged 25 to 54 have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Many are trained in fields such as medicine, dentistry, engineering, and pharmacy. While some internationally educated professionals face challenges in securing jobs that match their qualifications, their presence continues to strengthen Canada’s skilled workforce.

Belonging, Faith, and Community

Arab communities in Canada include people of various faith traditions. The most common religious affiliations are Islam and Christianity, with differences influenced by country of origin and family background. Community life is also shaped by shared language, family networks, cultural events, and places of worship. These support networks contribute to belonging, identity, and well-being. The Portrait of the Arab Populations in Canada highlights a vibrant, youthful, and multilingual population that continues to grow and contribute to Canada’s social and economic landscape. As the community expands, it strengthens Canada’s cultural fabric and reflects the country’s ongoing value of diversity, inclusion, and opportunity.