Muzz: Playing Cupid for Single Muslims
Muzz, formerly known as muzmatch, is a halal dating app founded by Shahzad Younas and launched in 2015. The app has since then breaking taboos and has been changing the ‘what will people say’ mindset in conservative countries such as Pakistan.
While ‘dating’ is frowned upon and arranged marriages are deeply embedded in our lives, muzz is trying to change the narrative by penetrating into the market with its halal-dating concept.
One such story is of Mr Iqbal Karimullah who has left in shock when his eldest daughter told him she has met her soulmate on the app. Though he liked the boy and approved of the match, even after the initial meeting was a success, the cardiologist from Luton worried about what his family and friends would think.
“The boy was absolutely brilliant and I know they are soulmates. But when I found out this match was set up through a dating site I told my wife and daughters ‘nobody is telling anybody’,” he said. “People would judge us, because ‘log kya kahenge’ is the mindset of my generation.”
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He then decided to create an alternative story about how the couple met through mutual connections as both parents work for the National Health Services (NHS).
“It was later that I realised that Muzz has done a great favour to us. These two boys are the most wonderful sons-in-law one could have. My daughters found their soulmates. Now I tell others who are afraid like I was: believe in Allah and don’t live in fear. Your children’s happiness is what ultimately matters.”
“All parents worry about their kids, and this is so helpful. There is no way my daughters would have met these wonderful boys without Muzz. Now, I’m it’s the biggest advocate.” he concluded.
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The platform allows users to create a profile, browse through other profiles, and chat with potential matches. However, what sets Muzz apart from other dating apps is that it places a strong emphasis on halal dating principles, such as respecting each other’s privacy, avoiding physical contact before marriage, and involving family members in the process.
Through its innovative approach, Muzz has been able to change the mindset of many people in Pakistan, who were previously sceptical about the concept of dating. By providing a safe and secure platform that adheres to Islamic values, the startup has made it easier for young people to find a compatible partner and has given them more control over their own lives and choices.
At the moment, the app has a growing community of 8 million global members. Since its inception in 2014, Muzz says connections on its platform have resulted in 400,000 marriages globally. In Pakistan, one of the platform’s largest markets, the app has resulted in 12,000 marriages.
Muzz: An Alternative to Arrange Marriages
Moreover, the concept of halal dating has also challenged the traditional concept of arranged marriages in Pakistan. While arranged marriages have their benefits, such as ensuring compatibility between partners and promoting family values, they can also be a source of pressure and stress for young people who may not be ready to get married or may not feel a connection with the selected partner.
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By introducing the concept of halal dating, Muzz has given young people an alternative to arranged marriages, where they can get to know potential partners on their own terms and at their own pace. This has helped to break down traditional barriers and has given young people more freedom and independence in their personal lives.
I met so many people who said how hard it is to find a partner. I looked at what was out there… horrible websites which were expensive, awkward and old-fashioned. I was convinced I could do something better, -Founder & CEO Shahzad Younas
It prompted him to quit his job and work on the app full-time out of his bedroom. “Marriage is important to Muslims, but everyone I knew told me other Muslim marriage sites were terrible. The birth of Muzz coincided with the smartphone taking off. Mainstream dating apps blew me away, and that’s when the penny dropped for me. I wondered, why don’t Muslims have a modern app to help them connect with someone?”
“We know our customers use sophisticated apps such as Instagram and Snapchat, so we spend resources to build a visually impressive, responsive, quality product. Everyone knows a good app when they see one,” he added. “We have grown and grown – 400 people a day tell us globally that they met someone on Muzz. Muslims travel across the world to meet partners. It is bringing the ummah together, even those from different sects and communities.”
Halal dating or arranged marriages, which one is your pick?
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