List Of Countries With Sharia Law

So, picture this: I’m at a dinner party, and someone casually mentions they’re moving to Dubai. “Oh, cool,” I say, trying to sound worldly. “So, does Sharia law, like, apply to you there?” They blinked at me, and I immediately felt like that guy who brings up politics over hummus. We’ve all been there—curious about Sharia law but not totally sure what it actually means or where it’s a thing.

That’s exactly why we’re diving in today. Not to get heavy, but to clear up the map. Sharia law isn’t some one-size-fits-all black robe that countries just pull on. It’s more like a spectrum—from full-on legal systems to just a flavor in family courts. Let’s walk through the list, with a little side-eye and a lot of honesty.

The Full-On, No-Filter Sharia Club

First up, the heavy hitters. These are countries where Sharia is the law of the land, full stop. Think Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Afghanistan (under Taliban rule). Here, the legal system is built entirely on Islamic jurisprudence. Criminal punishments, banking, family law—it’s all straight from the texts. (You know, the parts people shout about on Twitter.)

Then you’ve got Brunei and Yemen. Brunei made headlines a few years back for introducing stoning as punishment—yeah, that got awkward at international summits. And Somalia? Technically it’s on the list, but good luck finding a consistent court system there. It’s a bit like saying “the school has a dress code,” but the school is on fire. Ironic, right?

Countries Where Sharia Is a Co-Star, Not the Lead

Now, this is where it gets juicy. Many nations have mixed legal systems—Sharia for personal stuff, civil law for the rest. Take Nigeria: twelve northern states apply Sharia in criminal cases, while the south runs on English common law. So if you’re in Lagos, no lashing for drinking beer—but head north and, uh, don’t test it. (Your Uber driver might warn you, I swear.)

Sharia Law PowerPoint (teacher made) - Twinkl

Same vibe in Malaysia and Indonesia. Both are Muslim-majority but use a dual-track system. Sharia courts handle marriage, divorce, and inheritance for Muslims, while non-Muslims get the secular courts. It’s like having two different apps for the same problem—and they don’t always sync. Pakistan is similar, though it’s got this weird back-and-forth between Islamic and British-era laws that makes you dizzy.

The “We Have Sharia-ish, But Not Really” Cases

Let’s be real: some countries just borrow the vibe without committing. Egypt states that Sharia is “the main source of legislation,” but their civil code is basically French law with an Islamic tan. Sudan used to be hardcore Sharia, but after the 2019 revolution, they scaled it back. Now it’s more of a polite suggestion, depending on who’s in power. (Politics, amirite?)

Then there’s Maldives. Tiny island paradise, but its legal system is a Sharia-secular hybrid. You can be sipping a cocktail on a resort, but if you’re a local and get caught with that same cocktail, you’re in trouble. It’s like the law has a “tourist discount.” Not cool, but very real.

Chart: Where do the majority of Muslims want Sharia? | Statista

The Eagle-Eyed Observer’s Corner

Here’s the kicker: even in countries with “full” Sharia, implementation varies wildly. In Saudi Arabia, you might get lashed for witchcraft, but in Iran, the same crime could land you a different sentence. And in Qatar or UAE, Sharia is mostly for family law—criminal stuff is secular. So don’t assume every bearded judge is breaking out the whip. (Though, fair warning: public drinking in Dubai will get you deported. Learned that the hard way—not me, a friend of a friend.)

Why does this matter? Because Sharia law isn’t some scary monolith. It’s a living, breathing system that adapts—or doesn’t—to local culture. Some places use it for social control, others for genuine faith. And yes, some just use it to keep women in line, which is bleak. But that’s on the implementers, not the concept itself. (Insert your own eye roll here.)

So next time someone asks about Sharia law, you can say: “Well, it depends on the country—and the mood of the judge.” Maybe skip that last part if you’re actually visiting one of these places. Stay curious, stay safe, and always check your hotel’s dress code before packing that sleeveless dress. You’re welcome.