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.

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 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.

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.

Christianity is the main religion in Sub-Saharan Africa. As of 2020, over *** million people in the region were Christian. Muslims followed, amounting to around *** million, while folk religions counted over ** million adherents. By 2050, the number of Christians in Sub-Saharan Africa is forecast to exceed *** billion, Muslims are forecast to be around *** million, and folk religions to account for about ** million adherents.

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.

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 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.

Middle East and Africa Halal Food & Beverage Market was valued at USD 60 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 110 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.87% from 2025 to 2032.

Middle East and Africa Halal Food & Beverage Market Drivers

Large and Growing Muslim Population: The MEA region has a large and predominantly Muslim population, for whom Halal certification is a religious requirement for food and beverage consumption. This is the primary driver of the market. Increasing Religious Observance: There's a growing trend of religious observance among Muslims in the MEA region, further increasing the demand for Halal-certified products. Rising Disposable Incomes: Increasing disposable incomes in many MEA countries enable consumers to purchase a wider variety of food and beverage products, including Halal-certified ones. Growing Awareness of Halal Standards: Consumers are becoming more aware of what Halal certification entails, including not only the permissibility of ingredients but also ethical sourcing and hygiene standards.

Mali is a predominantly Muslim country with 94.84 percent of the population belonging to Islam. Of that 94.84 percent, only 0.8 percent is Shi’a versus the greater majority of Sunni Muslims in the country. While most of the population is Muslim, a small minority practice other religions as well; 2.37 percent Christianity, 2.02 percent Animist, 0.04 percent Other, 0.45 percent Atheist/Agnostic, and 0.28 percent Undeclared. Of the 2.37 percent of Christians in Mali, the majority of those are Roman Catholic.

Historically in Mali there has been a large diversity of religious beliefs and practices that not only coexisted but often intermingled. Malians have shown a great tolerance for other beliefs and typically do not let disagreements over religion escalate into violent actions. Many in Mali, especially in more rural areas, will mix Islam with traditional African practices from the region. While Muslim scholars see this as not only non-Islamic but also unlawful in nature, those that practice this mixture of religious beliefs do not view it as wrong. Because of the geography of Mali, there is a large mixture of ethnic groups and tribes in the south. As a consequence, it is in this region where most of these alternative belief systems can be found.

While religious pluralism and tolerance has been a common theme in Mali, the introduction of terrorist and extremist groups in the north has created a push by those groups for fundamental Islam and Sharia Law. This has disrupted the normal religious harmony in Mali. The presence of groups such as al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), Ansar Dine, and the Movement for Unity and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) are causing issues for many in the northern areas because of the prevalence of hybrid forms Islam mixed with traditional African beliefs. The violence and enforcement of Sharia Law by such groups is causing significant numbers of people to flee to the southern regions of Mali.

Afrique du Sud: Muslims as percent of the total population: Pour cet indicateur, The Cline Center for Democracy fournit des données pour la Afrique du Sud de 1960 à 2013. La valeur moyenne pour Afrique du Sud pendant cette période était de 1.4 pour cent avec un minimum de 1 pour cent en 1960 et un maximum de 2 pour cent en 1990.

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.

Christianity is the main religion in Sub-Saharan Africa. As of 2020, ** percent of the region's population was Christian. Muslims followed, accounting for **** percent of the total population. In addition, *** percent of the people in Sub-Saharan Africa practiced traditional African religions, while the unaffiliated constituted three percent of the population.

Islamic Clothing Market Outlook

The global Islamic clothing market size is projected to witness substantial growth from 2023 to 2032, with market figures standing at approximately USD 100 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 170 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 6%. The increasing demand for modest fashion across the globe acts as a significant growth driver for the Islamic clothing market. This segment of the fashion industry has seen a surge in popularity, not only among Muslim populations but also among non-Muslims who appreciate the aesthetic and ethical aspects of modest fashion.

One of the primary growth factors for the Islamic clothing market is the rising preference for modest attire influenced by cultural and religious sentiments. This is particularly prevalent among Muslim-majority countries but is also gaining traction in Western countries where multiculturalism and diversity are celebrated. There is an increasing tendency among Muslim women to balance their religious traditions with modern fashion trends, leading to a higher demand for contemporary designs in Islamic clothing. The fashion industry has also seen a shift towards inclusivity and diversity, with many mainstream brands launching modest fashion lines, thereby reaching a broader audience.

The internet and social media platforms have played a crucial role in influencing the growth of the Islamic clothing market. With the increasing penetration of smartphones and the internet, consumers now have easier access to a variety of styles and trends from around the world. Influencers and fashion bloggers focusing on modest fashion have amplified the reach of Islamic clothing, encouraging a more expansive audience to explore this segment. This digital exposure helps bridge the gap between traditional and modern fashion, making Islamic clothing more mainstream and accessible.

Economic growth in key markets with significant Muslim populations is also contributing to the market's expansion. Countries in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa are experiencing higher disposable incomes, leading to increased spending on fashion and lifestyle products, including Islamic clothing. Additionally, tourism has also played a role, where travelers visiting Muslim-majority regions tend to purchase local attire as part of their cultural experience, further boosting the market.

From a regional perspective, the Middle East and Africa hold a prominent share of the Islamic clothing market, driven by a large Muslim population and strong cultural ties to traditional attire. However, North America and Europe are projected to witness significant growth due to the increasing acceptance and popularity of modest fashion among diverse populations. Asia Pacific, with its large Muslim demographic in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, continues to offer lucrative opportunities for market players. These regions are expected to exhibit varying growth rates, with regions such as Asia Pacific showcasing higher CAGR owing to its growing population and increasing urbanization.

Product Type Analysis

The Islamic clothing market encompasses a diverse range of product types, including abayas, hijabs, thobes, kaftans, and others. Abayas, primarily worn in the Middle East, have evolved from traditional wear to fashion statements, incorporating modern designs and fabrics. Fashion designers are innovating with abayas, integrating contemporary styles while maintaining their modest appeal. This ongoing evolution is making abayas popular not only in the Middle Eastern countries but also among Muslim women worldwide who seek modest yet stylish attire.

Hijabs, another significant segment, have seen a surge in demand due to the increasing number of women embracing this form of headscarf as a part of their daily attire. The hijab market has expanded with an array of styles, colors, and fabrics, catering to the diverse preferences of Muslim women. The growing awareness and acceptance of hijabs in non-Muslim countries have further propelled their demand. Brands are increasingly launching hijab lines, recognizing the economic potential and cultural significance of this product type.

Thobes, traditionally worn by men in Arab countries, are now gaining attention as lifestyle fashion. They are known for their comfort and simplicity, and recent trends have seen thobes being adapted for casual and formal occasions alike. The design innovations in thobes are making them appealing to younger generations who are keen on preserving cultural attire w

δ13C and δ15N uncertainties calculated from Szpak et al.

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 $X billion in 2025, is projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of X% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a market value of approximately $Y billion by 2033. (Note: X and Y represent estimated values derived from industry knowledge and logical extrapolation based on typical CAGR ranges for similar markets. Specific values are omitted as they were not provided in the prompt). Key drivers include the increasing disposable incomes in developing economies, coupled with a growing humanization of pets, leading to greater investment in premium and specialized pet food products. The preference for natural and organic ingredients within the Halal certification further fuels this growth, aligning with health-conscious consumer trends. The market is segmented by application (online vs. offline channels) and product type (cat food vs. dog food). Online channels are witnessing faster growth due to the convenience and wider reach of e-commerce platforms. The demand for Halal-certified cat food and dog food is relatively evenly balanced, although regional variations may exist. Geographic segmentation reveals significant market potential across regions with large Muslim populations, such as the Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific (particularly South East Asia), and parts of Europe. However, the North American and European markets are also showing increasing interest in Halal certified pet food, driven by growing awareness of ethical and dietary considerations. Market restraints include challenges in maintaining consistent Halal certification across the supply chain and the relatively higher cost of Halal-certified ingredients compared to conventional pet food options. Major players in the market are actively investing in product innovation and expansion to capitalize on these emerging opportunities. Competition is expected to intensify further in the forecast period.

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.

In around 716 AD, the city of Santarém, Portugal, was conquered by the Berber and Arab armies that swept the Iberian Peninsula and went on to rule the region until the 12th century. Archaeological excavations in 2007/08 discovered an Islamic necropolis (Avenida 5 de Outubro #2–8) that appears to contain the remains of an early Muslim population in Santarém (8th– 10th century). In this study, skeletal material from 58 adult individuals was analysed for stable carbon (δ13Ccol; δ13Cap), nitrogen (δ15N) and sulphur (δ34S) isotope ratios in bones, and stable oxygen (δ18O), carbon (δ13Cen) and radiogenic strontium (87Sr/86Sr) isotopes in tooth enamel. The results of this study revealed a dietary pattern of predominantly C3-plant and domestic C3-fed herbivore consumption during adulthood (δ13Ccol and δ15N, respectively) but a higher proportion of C4-plant input during childhood (δ13Cen) for some individuals—interpreted as possible childhood consumption of millet porridge, a common practice in North Africa—in those with unorthodox burial types (Groups 1 and 2) that was not practiced in the individuals with canonical burials (Group 3). In this first mobility study of a medieval Muslim population in Portugal, δ18ODW values revealed greater heterogeneity in Groups 1 and 2, consistent with diverse origins, some in more humid regions than Santarém when compared to regional precipitation δ18O data, contrasting the more homogenous Group 3, consistent with the local precipitation δ18O range. Ancient DNA analysis conducted on three individuals revealed maternal (mtDNA) and paternal (Y-chromosome) lineages compatible with a North African origin for (at least) some of the individuals. Additionally, mobility of females in this population was higher than males, potentially resulting from a patrilocal social system, practiced in Berber and Arab communities. These results serve to offer a more detailed insight into the ancestry and cultural practices of early Muslim populations in Iberia.