New Muslim? How to Start Learning the Quran

Welcome. If you've recently embraced Islam, the Quran can feel both inspiring and intimidating — a book in a script you may never have seen. You don't have to learn everything at once. Here's a gentle path.

Step 1: Read it in your own language

Start by reading a reliable English translation, a little each day. Our Quran pages show the Arabic and English side by side for every surah. Many new Muslims begin with Al-Fatiha and the short surahs at the end of the Quran.

Step 2: Learn Al-Fatiha for your prayer

Al-Fatiha is recited in every unit of prayer (Sahih al-Bukhari 756). Learn it by listening and repeating, with a teacher checking your pronunciation. Read our guide to the meaning of Al-Fatiha.

Step 3: Learn the Arabic letters

Within a few weeks of short lessons, you can learn the Arabic alphabet and start joining letters. Adults usually complete the Noorani Qaida in 4–8 weeks.

Step 4: Read from the mushaf with a teacher

Once you can decode words, a teacher helps you read slowly and correctly from the Quran itself.

Be kind to yourself

Mistakes are part of learning. The Prophet ﷺ said the one who recites with difficulty receives a double reward (Sahih al-Bukhari 4937).

Find support

Local mosques often run new Muslim circles; online one-to-one lessons add private, patient correction at your own pace. You can choose a male or female teacher.

More: learning the Quran as an adult. Book a free trial lesson.