When the singer known as Cat Stevens walked away from his superstardom in the late 1970s, he didn't just leave the charts behind. He stepped into an entirely different life. At the heart of that quiet transition was his marriage to Fauzia Mubarak Ali. While millions of fans tracked his every record during the era of "Tea for the Tillerman" and "Teaser and the Firecat," his personal life away from the spotlight remained intensely private.
Fauzia Mubarak Ali married the artist—who later took the name Yusuf Islam—on September 7, 1979, at the Regent's Park Mosque in London. Their union wasn't born out of the chaotic nightlife of the music industry or backstage lounges. Instead, it anchored a profound spiritual and personal transformation that lasted for decades.
The Turning Point in 1979
To understand their marriage, you have to look at what was happening to the man born Steven Demetre Georgiou. After surviving a near-drowning off the coast of Malibu and a severe battle with tuberculosis, he began exploring Islam. He found answers in the Quran, auctioned off his guitars, and chose to leave pop music behind.
Entering this new chapter meant seeking a partner who shared his dedication to faith, humility, and family values. Through traditional family introductions, he met Fauzia Mubarak Ali. Unlike the pop stars and models he had dated during his years on tour—such as Patti D'Arbanville—Fauzia had little interest in the music business or celebrity culture. She offered stability, quiet strength, and a shared vision for a grounded life.
The wedding ceremony itself was simple, far removed from the lavish receptions typical of global pop icons. It marked the definitive closing of one era and the start of another.
Building a Private Family Away From Fame
Raising children outside the fishbowl of celebrity life became a primary goal for the couple. Over the years, they welcomed five surviving children: a son named Muhammad (also known by his creative name Yoriyos Adamos) and four daughters named Hassana, Maymanah, Asmaa, and Amina. Tragically, they also experienced the deep grief of losing an infant son early on.
The family prioritized education, charitable work, and privacy. While their father's past records continued to play on classic rock radio stations worldwide, the children grew up attending community schools and engaging in local projects.
Yusuf has often credited his wife with creating the peaceful atmosphere that allowed him to navigate such a massive life shift without looking back. In interviews, he noted how home life provided a balance he never found while constantly traveling on tour.
Humanitarian Work and Shared Causes
Beyond the household, the couple channeled their efforts into philanthropy. Together, they founded Small Kindness, a charity organization designed to support orphans, widows, and families affected by conflict, particularly in regions like the Balkans.
Fauzia took an active role behind the scenes, focusing on humanitarian aid rather than public applause. This shared commitment to charity gave their marriage a strong sense of purpose that extended well beyond domestic life. You can read more about charitable initiatives and cultural preservation efforts through the Official Yusuf Islam Website.
Returning to Music With Family Support
For nearly three decades, Yusuf stayed away from commercial secular music. However, the dynamic shifted when their son Muhammad brought a guitar home. Seeing his son play without hesitation helped bridge a personal gap regarding how music and faith could coexist.
When Yusuf eventually returned to recording and performing acoustic tours, his family remained his bedrock. He even altered the lyrics of his classic song "Hard Headed Woman" during live performances, changing the line from "I'm looking for" to "I've found my hard-headed woman" as a direct nod to Fauzia.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Cat Stevens and Fauzia Mubarak Ali get married?
They married on September 7, 1979, at the Regent's Park Mosque (London Central Mosque) in London.
How many children do they have?
They have five surviving children: one son, Muhammad, and four daughters—Hassana, Maymanah, Asmaa, and Amina. They also tragically lost a baby son in infancy.
Does Fauzia Mubarak Ali work in the public eye?
No. She maintains a strictly private life, avoiding interviews, social media spotlights, and the entertainment industry. She has, however, worked alongside her husband on humanitarian projects like the Small Kindness charity.
Where do they live today?
The couple primarily resides in London, where they continue to spend time with their children and grandchildren. For broader context on British music history and cultural shifts during that era, visit the BBC Music Archive.
