Islam is the major religion in many African countries, especially in the north of the continent. In Comoros, Libya, Western Sahara, at least 99 percent of the population was Muslim as of 202. These were the highest percentages on the continent. However, also in many other African nations, the majority of the population was Muslim. In Egypt, for instance, Islam was the religion of 79 percent of the people. Islam and other religions in Africa Africa accounts for an important share of the world’s Muslim population. As of 2019, 16 percent of the Muslims worldwide lived in Sub-Saharan Africa, while 20 percent of them lived in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Together with Christianity, Islam is the most common religious affiliation in Africa, followed by several traditional African religions. Although to a smaller extent, numerous other religions are practiced on the continent: these include Judaism, the Baha’i Faith, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Number of Muslims worldwide Islam is one of the most widespread religions in the world. There are approximately 1.9 billion Muslims globally, with the largest Muslim communities living in the Asia-Pacific region. Specifically, Indonesia hosts the highest number of Muslims worldwide, amounting to over 200 million, followed by India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Islam is also present in Europe and America. The largest Islamic communities in Europe are in France (5.72 million), Germany (4.95 million), and the United Kingdom (4.13 million). In the United States, there is an estimated number of around 3.45 million Muslims.

In 2024, Nigeria had the largest Muslim population in Africa, with around 105 million people who belonged to an Islamic denomination. Egypt and Algeria followed with 90.4 million and 39.4 million Muslims, respectively. Muslims have a significant presence in Africa, with an estimated 50 percent of the continent's population identifying as Muslim. The spread of Islam in Africa began in the 7th century with the arrival of Arab traders, and it continued through Islamic scholars and missionaries.

The average for 2013 based on 46 countries was 43.9 percent. The highest value was in Algeria: 100 percent and the lowest value was in Angola: 0 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

In 2024, Nigeria accounted for 7.08 percent of the global Muslim population, the highest share among African countries. Egypt and Algeria followed, with shares of 6.12 percent and 2.67 percent, respectively. Islam has a significant presence in Africa, with an estimated 50 percent of the continent's population identifying as Muslim. The spread of Islam in Africa began in the 7th century with the arrival of Arab traders, and later continued through Islamic scholars and missionaries.

Christianity is the major religion in numerous African countries. As of 2024, around 96 percent of the population of Zambia was Christian, representing the highest percentage on the continent. Seychelles and Rwanda followed with roughly 95 percent and 94 percent of the population being Christian, respectively. While these countries present the highest percentages, Christianity was also prevalent in many other African nations. For instance, in South Africa, Christianity was the religion of nearly 85 percent of the people, while the share corresponded to 71 percent in Ghana. Religious variations across Africa Christianity and Islam are the most practiced religions in Africa. Christian adherents are prevalent below the Sahara, while North Africa is predominantly Muslim. In 2020, Christians accounted for around 60 percent of the Sub-Saharan African population, followed by Muslims with a share of roughly 30 percent. In absolute terms, there were approximately 650 million Christians in the region, a number forecast to increase to over one billion by 2050. In contrast, Islam is most prevalent in North Africa, being the religion of over 90 percent of the population in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya. Christianity in the world As opposed to other religions, Christianity is widely spread across continents worldwide. In fact, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Europe each account for around 25 percent of the global Christian population. By comparison, Asia-Pacific and North America make up 13 percent and 12 percent of Christians worldwide, respectively. In several regions, Christians also suffer persecution on religious grounds. Somalia and Libya presented the most critical situation in Africa in 2021, reporting the strongest suppression of Christians worldwide just after North Korea and Afghanistan.

Muslim Ingredients Market Outlook

The global Muslim ingredients market size is projected to grow from USD 1.9 billion in 2023 to USD 3.5 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%. The burgeoning Muslim population, coupled with increasing awareness and demand for halal-certified products, is a key growth factor driving this market.

The rising Muslim population globally is one of the primary drivers of the Muslim ingredients market. As of 2023, Muslims constitute about 24% of the worldÂ’s population, and this demographic is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This growth is predominantly seen in regions such as the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. The increasing Muslim population naturally leads to a higher demand for halal products, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. A deeper understanding and adherence to religious dietary laws have further solidified the importance of incorporating halal ingredients in daily consumption.

The surge in disposable income among Muslim consumers has also played a pivotal role in the market's expansion. Improved economic conditions in countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, have led to increased spending on premium halal-certified products. This trend is particularly evident in the food and beverage sector, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for assurance of quality and compliance with Islamic dietary laws. Consequently, manufacturers are increasingly investing in halal certification and aligning their products with Islamic principles to tap into this lucrative market.

Technological advancements and innovation in the processing and certification of halal products have further bolstered market growth. The introduction of blockchain technology for halal certification ensures transparency, traceability, and authenticity, thus gaining consumer trust. Additionally, advancements in food science have enabled the development of new halal-friendly ingredients, expanding the range of available products. Companies investing in research and development are better positioned to cater to the evolving preferences of Muslim consumers and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Halal Food plays a pivotal role in the Muslim ingredients market, as it aligns with the religious and cultural practices of Muslim consumers. The demand for halal food is not only limited to Muslim-majority countries but is also gaining traction in regions with growing Muslim populations, such as Europe and North America. This trend is driven by the increasing awareness of halal food as a symbol of quality and ethical production, appealing to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. The assurance of halal certification provides consumers with confidence that the food products adhere to strict Islamic dietary laws, which is crucial for maintaining religious observance. As a result, food manufacturers are increasingly investing in halal certification to cater to this expanding market segment and capitalize on the growing demand for halal food products globally.

Regionally, the Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share, driven by countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, where the majority of the population adheres to Islamic dietary laws. North America and Europe are also witnessing increased demand for halal products, fueled by the growing Muslim immigrant population and rising awareness among non-Muslim consumers about the benefits of halal-certified products. The Middle East and Africa region, with its predominantly Muslim population, remains a critical market, contributing significantly to the global revenue.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the Muslim ingredients market comprises halal meat, halal dairy products, halal beverages, halal confectionery, halal nutraceuticals, and others. Halal meat holds a significant share in this segment due to the stringent religious guidelines governing meat consumption in Islam. The demand for halal meat is particularly high in regions with large Muslim populations, such as the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. Companies are increasingly focusing on ensuring that their meat products are certified halal to cater to this growing demand. The advent of online meat delivery services has further propelled the growth of this segment.

Halal dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are another crucial segment that has see

The Central African Republic: Muslims as percent of the total population: The latest value from 2013 is 18 percent, unchanged from 18 percent in 2012. In comparison, the world average is 34.3 percent, based on data from 128 countries. Historically, the average for the Central African Republic from 1960 to 2013 is 9.1 percent. The minimum value, 3 percent, was reached in 1960 while the maximum of 18 percent was recorded in 2012.

In 2022, a survey by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights found that 28 percent of Muslims coming from North African countries faced discrimination. Among all surveyed countries, The Netherlands reported the highest rate, with 44 percent of respondents experiencing discrimination.

The Central African Republic: Shia Muslims as percent of the total population: The latest value from is percent, unavailable from percent in . In comparison, the world average is 0.0 percent, based on data from countries. Historically, the average for the Central African Republic from to is percent. The minimum value, percent, was reached in while the maximum of percent was recorded in .

In 2022, a survey conducted in the selected African countries found that the vast majority of respondents would be fasting during Ramadan. The regional average was was 99 percent. Furthermore, the country with the highest share of people fasting was Algeria with 99.7 percent. Ramadan is the biggest religious season for Muslims, during the month communities unite on a journey of spirituality. Fasting is one of the most important parts of the Ramadan celebration. The fast is broken every evening with a communal evening meal or Iftar.

In 2024, Ethiopia had the largest Christian population in Africa, with around 77.5 million people who identified as Christian. The second highest Christian population was in Nigeria, with 74.4 million people. Christianity has a significant presence in Africa, with its history on the continent dating back to the fourth century in Ethiopia. Furthermore, Christianity has spread throughout Africa with different denominations and traditions, taking root in various regions. Some of the largest Christian denominations in Africa include the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Church, and the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements.

How do White Americans operationalize Whiteness? This paper argues religion, in conjunction with country of origin, alters how self-identified White Americans assign ethnoracial labels to other groups. To test the role of religion on White assignment, this paper uses the case of Muslims and Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Americans. Although MENA individuals are legally classified as White in the US, they are subjected to racialization and often conflated with Muslims. Using historical analysis of racial prerequisite court cases and a survey experiment, I find country of origin and religion play separate, additive roles in racial assignment decisions, both historically and today. White assignment is constructed of both country of origin and religion. These findings also extend to perceived skin tone. This is important because many of the benefits that come from being White depend on whether others perceive an individual as White. Understanding the constitutive parts of Whiteness compels research to be specific when discussing White people and why some “White” people are excluded.

In 2020, Indonesia recorded the largest population of Muslims worldwide, with around 239 million. This was followed with around 226.88 million Muslims in Pakistan and 213 million Muslims in India.

This paper explores the question of what explains public opinion of women empowerment in the Middle East and North Africa. Muslim societies have often been accused of conservatism toward empowerment, stripping women of equal access to education and opportunities. However, many predominantly Muslim societies in the MENA region seem to be on the way to implement change to provide women with more rights. Prior research points to exposure to diversity as a contributor to the acceptance of a more egalitarian role of women in society. This article analyzes different mechanisms of the exposure hypothesis and whether they contribute to predicting positive public perceptions of women empowerment in the region. The empirical analyses rely on public opinion data collected by the Arab Barometer in 2018–19. The descriptive findings suggest attitudinal differences across countries, but also significant gender gaps and divergences across core explanatory factors found under the umbrella of the exposure hypothesis, such as diverse urban living, keeping religion a private matter, and connecting with the world via social media. These factors seem important to shift people's minds and to pave women's long way to liberalization.

Religious Veils Market Outlook

The religious veils market is poised for substantial growth, with the global market size valued at approximately USD 250 million in 2023 and projected to reach nearly USD 400 million by 2032, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during the forecast period. The increasing demand for religious veils stems from cultural, social, and religious factors, compounded by growing multicultural interactions and the rising global Muslim population, which continues to drive the market's expansion. Additionally, the influence of fashion trends adapting traditional veils into modern styles is contributing significantly to market growth.

One of the primary growth factors of the religious veils market is the increasing awareness and adherence to religious norms and practices. This awareness is particularly strong among the younger demographics in Islamic countries and communities, where wearing veils like the hijab, niqab, or burqa is not just a religious obligation but also a cultural identity. Furthermore, the influence of digital media and global communication has amplified this trend, making religious veils a symbol of empowerment and fashion among Muslim women. As more individuals embrace these garments, the demand for diverse styles and types has increased, leading to robust market growth.

Another significant factor propelling the market is the evolution of fashion within the realm of religious attire. Designers are increasingly integrating cultural and religious elements with modern fashion trends, creating diverse collections that cater to a wide array of preferences and occasions. The availability of veils in various colors, patterns, and materials not only satisfies religious requirements but also allows individuals to express their personal style. This fusion of tradition and modernity in religious veils has opened up new avenues for market expansion, as consumers are drawn to innovative and aesthetically pleasing products.

Moreover, the rise in e-commerce and online retail platforms has played a crucial role in the expansion of the religious veils market. These platforms have made it easier for consumers to access a broader range of products from different regions, allowing for a more personalized shopping experience. The convenience of online shopping, coupled with the availability of diverse options, has significantly contributed to the growth of the market. Additionally, social media platforms serve as powerful marketing tools, enabling brands to reach target audiences more effectively and promote new styles and collections.

Regionally, the Middle East and Africa hold the largest share in the religious veils market due to the predominant Muslim population and the cultural significance of veils in daily life. This region is followed by Asia Pacific, which is witnessing rapid growth due to the substantial Muslim communities in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan. North America and Europe represent emerging markets, driven by growing multicultural populations and increasing acceptance of religious diversity. As globalization continues to enhance cross-cultural exchanges, the demand for religious veils is expected to expand across various regions, further bolstering the market's growth trajectory.

Product Type Analysis

The religious veils market is segmented into various product types, including hijabs, niqabs, burqas, chadors, and others, each serving distinct religious and cultural functions. The hijab is one of the most widely worn veils, serving as a versatile headscarf that partially covers the hair and neck, leaving the face visible. Its popularity is largely due to its flexibility in design and the modern fashion industry’s embrace of the hijab as both a religious garment and a fashion accessory. This has led to a surge in demand for hijabs in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics, catering to a broad audience who wish to express both their religious beliefs and fashion sense.

The niqab, which covers the face except for the eyes, has a smaller but significant market segment. It is primarily worn in the Middle East, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where it is part of the traditional dress code. However, its adoption is also noticeable in countries with significant Muslim populations in Asia and Africa. The niqab's market growth is influenced by cultural and religious adherence, as well as regional policies regarding dress codes. While the niqab’s demand is steady, it faces challenges in regions where face coverings are subject to legal

Spain has a long history of Islamic tradition under its belt. From cuisine to architecture, the southern European country has been linked to the North of Africa through many common elements. At the end of 2023, there were approximately 2.41 million Muslims in Spain, most of them of Spanish and Moroccan nationality, with upwards of eight hundred thousand believers in both cases. With a Muslim population of more than 660,000 people, Catalonia was home to the largest Muslim community in Spain as of the same date.

The not so Catholic Spain

Believers of a religion other than Catholicism accounted for approximately 3 percent of the Spanish population, according to the most recent data. Although traditionally a Catholic country, Spain saw a decline in the number of believers over the past years. Compared to previous years, when the share of believers accounted for slightly over 70 percent of the Spanish population, the Catholic community lost ground, while still being the major religion for the foreseable future.

A Catholic majority, a practicing minority

Going to mass is no longer a thing in Spain, or so it would seem when looking at the latest statistics about the matter: 50 percent of those who consider themselves Catholics almost never attend any religious service in 2024. The numbers increased until 2019, from 55.5 percent of the population never attending religious services in 2011 to 63.1 percent in 2019. The share of population that stated to be practicing believers and go to mass every Sunday and on the most important holidays accounted for only 15.5 percent.

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Islamic Clothing Market Size 2025-2029

The Islamic clothing market size is forecast to increase by USD 59.2 billion, at a CAGR of 9.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market, encompassing apparel, sports apparel, swimwear, and ethnic wear, is experiencing significant growth in the digital realm. Key drivers include the rise in product visibility and accessibility through e-commerce platforms, as well as the increasing adoption of omni-channel retailing. However, challenges persist, such as the availability of counterfeit Islamic clothing items online. Brands and retailers must prioritize logistics and security measures to ensure authenticity and customer satisfaction. In the US and North American markets, labels specializing in Islamic clothing continue to expand their online presence, catering to the needs of a growing consumer base seeking modest and culturally appropriate attire. The use of technology, including computers and mobile devices, facilitates seamless shopping experiences for this demographic.

What will be the Size of the Islamic Clothing Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market, also known as the Muslim consumer segment within the Islamic fashion industry, caters to the unique needs and preferences of the global Islamic population. This market encompasses a diverse range of apparel, including abayas, hijabs, prayer outfits, thobes, jubbas, and various forms of head coverings such as the burqa and niqab. The market's growth is driven by the increasing global Islamic population, which is projected to reach 2.2 billion by 2030, and the rising demand for modest fashion that adheres to Islamic dress codes. Online retail distribution channels have significantly influenced the market's expansion, providing convenience and accessibility to consumers.
The lifestyle apparel sector, which includes sportswear for both Islamic men and women, has also gained traction due to the growing interest in health and fitness. Multinational fashion brands have increasingly entered this market, recognizing the potential for consumer investments and product consumption. Despite the growth, challenges persist, including negative reviews and the need for improved product quality and authenticity. Overall, the market continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of its global consumer base.

How is this Islamic Clothing Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The Islamic clothing industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Ethnic wear
  Sustainable fashion
  Sports wear


End-user

  Islamic women
  Islamic men


Distribution Channel

  Online
  Offline


Material Type

  Cotton
  Polyester
  Silk
  Blended Fabrics


Geography

  North America

    US


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    Turkey


  APAC

    India
    Indonesia
    Pakistan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The ethnic wear segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market caters to the unique needs of Muslim consumers, offering apparel that adheres to Islamic principles. This market encompasses various segments, including abayas, hijabs, prayer outfits, burqas, and niqabs for women, and thobes, jubbas, and sports and fitness wear for men. The Muslim population, estimated at 1.8 billion, presents a significant potential customer base for this industry. Islamic fashion industry growth is driven by cultural and lifestyle factors, particularly in Muslim majority economies. Younger generations are increasingly embracing innovative clothing designs that blend traditional Islamic clothing with contemporary styles, creating a demand for modest fashion wear. Ethnic wear, a popular segment, is particularly sought after during cultural events and significant occasions.

The sports industry also presents opportunities for the market growth, with the increasing popularity of sports hijabs. Consumer investments in sustainable fashion are also influencing the industry. Multinational fashion brands and high street brands are increasingly catering to this market, offering a range of options from luxury to affordable prices. E-commerce platforms are facilitating online retail distribution, addressing logistical issues and expanding market reach.

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The ethnic wear segment was valued at USD 69.50 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 39% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trend

We created an original dataset of women’s reforms in 129 constitutions that were passed or amended throughout seventy years in 54 African countries. In doing so, we drew on such sources as Constitute, UN Women’s Global Database of Constitutions, and other websites with archived texts of old constitutions, and then coded them for twelve issue areas related to women’s rights. In our dataset, we also include independent variables such as whether each African country experienced conflict, Freedom House democratic rating, region, former colonial power, whether a country is predominantly Muslim, and regional associations or unions in which countries hold membership. We grouped provisions that especially affect women and girls under the four broad themes of economic rights, political and legal rights including customary and family law, social rights and violence against women, and international treaties. These are selected based on how women’s rights activists in Africa have generally defined women’s rights. We recognize that this categorization may blur the many differences and nuances among those who identify as women. We also looked for gender-inclusive language. We searched the text of constitutions for relevant keywords in specific areas of provisions that fell into these categories and coded for the presence or absence of each type of provision (see codebook for elaboration of coding rules). We then analyzed the data for patterns of when and which African countries were incorporating what types of provisions relating to women’s rights.

Pew Research Center surveyed 13,122 adults across six countries in Asia about religious identity, beliefs, and practices, using nationally representative methods. Interviews were conducted face-to-face in Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. They were conducted on mobile phones in Malaysia and Singapore. Local interviewers administered the survey from June to September 2022, in eight languages.

This survey is part of the Pew-Templeton Global Religious Futures project, a broader effort by Pew Research Center to study religious change and its impact on societies around the world. The Center previously has conducted religion-focused surveys across sub-Saharan Africa; the Middle East-North Africa region and many countries with large Muslim populations; Latin America; Israel; Central and Eastern Europe; Western Europe; India; and the United States.

This survey includes three countries in which Buddhists make up a majority of the population (Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand); two countries with Muslim majorities (Malaysia and Indonesia); and one country that is religiously diverse, with no single group forming a majority (Singapore). We also are surveying five additional countries and territories in Asia, to be covered in a future report.

Pew Research Center has produced a supplemental syntax file containing SPSS code to generate common analytic variables in the survey's corresponding report and toplines. The ARDA has provided this syntax in a copyable PDF document as an additional download.

The global Halal pet food market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing Muslim population globally and a rising awareness of dietary needs among pet owners. This burgeoning market, estimated at $1.5 billion in 2025, is projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $2.8 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing disposable incomes in many developing nations are leading to higher pet ownership and a willingness to spend more on premium pet food. Secondly, the growing awareness of the importance of Halal certification for ethical and religious reasons is driving demand for specifically certified products. Finally, the increasing availability of Halal pet food through both online and offline channels is further facilitating market expansion. The cat food segment currently holds a larger market share compared to dog food, reflecting established preferences and higher per-unit spending in the cat food category. However, both segments are anticipated to experience significant growth, driven by the aforementioned factors. Geographic distribution reveals strong growth potential across various regions. While North America and Europe currently hold a significant share, driven by existing pet ownership and established distribution networks, rapid growth is projected in Asia-Pacific, particularly in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan, where large Muslim populations coincide with increasing pet ownership. The Middle East and Africa also present considerable opportunities due to high demand for Halal products and growing pet adoption rates. Challenges include the need for greater transparency and standardization in Halal certification processes, alongside the need to address the higher production costs associated with Halal compliant ingredients and certifications. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the Halal pet food market remains exceedingly positive, driven by the confluence of demographic, economic, and cultural factors.