Arab countries by predominant Islamic schools of jurisprudence

Monday 02 February 2026 - 16:26

By: Dakir Madiha

Arab countries by predominant Islamic schools of jurisprudence

The distribution of Sunni Islamic jurisprudential schools, or madhabs, across Arab nations reflects centuries-old scholarly traditions shaped by key imams and regional histories. The Hanbali school, founded by Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal (d. 241 AH), predominates in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, where it influences state legal systems and religious practices. These Gulf states prioritize this school's emphasis on textual adherence and prophetic traditions.

The Hanafi madhab, established by Imam Abu Hanifa al-Nu'man (d. 150 AH), holds sway in Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan, favored for its rationalist approach and adaptability in diverse societies. North African and Levantine communities rely on it for everyday fiqh rulings, from family law to commerce. Meanwhile, the Maliki school of Imam Malik ibn Anas (d. 179 AH) defines jurisprudence in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania, Sudan, Bahrain, and Kuwait, rooted in Medinan practice and community consensus.

The Shafi'i madhab, from Imam Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi'i (d. 204 AH), guides Yemen, Djibouti, Somalia, Comoros, and Iraq, balancing hadith and reasoning in these regions' courts and mosques. Finally, the Ibadi school, traced to Abdullah ibn Ibad al-Tamimi (d. 89 AH), uniquely prevails in Oman, known for its moderate stance outside the four main Sunni schools. This mapping highlights the Sunni madhabs' dominance while underscoring geographic and cultural variances.