Imam Rafiq was born in 1931 in the Khyber Pukhtookhwah Province of Pakistan. He graduated from the University of the Punjab in 1953 and then undertook a five year course at the Missionary Training College. In 1959, he was assigned to the London Mosque as missionary and deputy Imam. In 1964, he was appointed Imam of the London Mosque.

Imam Rafiq is the author of 12 books on Islam and Contemporary Religion. He was editor of 2 English magazines, and was also on the Editorial Board of the Islamic Magazine Al Furqan.

Imam Rafiq was invited by President William Tubman of Liberia, as a State guest in 1968. He was decorated with the titular honour of Liberian Chief.