In 2022, Indonesia has the largest population of Muslims worldwide with around 241.5 million. This was followed with around 225.6 million Muslims in Pakistan and 211.16 million Muslims in India.

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.

With almost all major religions being practiced throughout the country, India is known for its religious diversity. Islam makes up the highest share among minority faiths in the country. According to the Indian census of 2011, the Muslim population in Uttar Pradesh more than 35 million, making it the state with the most Muslims.

Socio-economic conditions of Muslims
Muslims seem to lag behind every other religious community in India in terms of living standards, financial stability, education and other aspects, thereby showing poor performance in most of the fields. According to a national survey, 17 percent of the Muslims were categorized under the lowest wealth index, which indicates poor socio-economic conditions.

Growth of Muslim population in India
Islam is one of the fastest-growing religions worldwide. According to India’s census, the Muslim population has witnessed a negative decadal growth of more than 16 percent from 1951 to 1960, presumably due to the partitions forming Pakistan and Bangladesh. The population showed a positive and steady growth since 1961, making up 14 percent of the total population of India . Even though people following Islam were estimated to grow significantly, they would still remain a minority in India compared to 1.3 billion Hindus by 2050.

In 1800, the population of the area of modern-day Pakistan was estimated to be just over 13 million. Population growth in the 19th century would be gradual in the region, rising to just 19 million at the turn of the century. In the early 1800s, the British Empire slowly consolidated power in the region, eventually controlling the region of Pakistan from the mid-19th century onwards, as part of the British Raj. From the 1930s on, the population's growth rate would increase as improvements in healthcare (particularly vaccination) and sanitation would lead to lower infant mortality rates and higher life expectancy. Independence In 1947, the Muslim-majority country of Pakistan gained independence from Britain, and split from the Hindu-majority country of India. In the next few years, upwards of ten million people migrated between the two nations, during a period that was blemished by widespread atrocities on both sides. Throughout this time, the region of Bangladesh was also a part Pakistan (as it also had a Muslim majority), known as East Pakistan; internal disputes between the two regions were persistent for over two decades, until 1971, when a short but bloody civil war resulted in Bangladesh's independence. Political disputes between Pakistan and India also created tension in the first few decades of independence, even boiling over into some relatively small-scale conflicts, although there was some economic progress and improvements in quality of life for Pakistan's citizens. The late 20th century was also characterized by several attempts to become democratic, but with intermittent periods of military rule. Between independence and the end of the century, Pakistan's population had grown more than four times in total. Pakistan today Since 2008, Pakistan has been a functioning democracy, with an emerging economy and increasing international prominence. Despite the emergence of a successful middle-class, this is prosperity is not reflected in all areas of the population as almost a quarter still live in poverty, and Pakistan ranks in the bottom 20% of countries according to the Human Development Index. In 2020, Pakistan is thought to have a total population of over 220 million people, making it the fifth-most populous country in the world.

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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


Geography

  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    Nigeria


  APAC

    India
    South Korea


  Europe



  North America

    US


  South America

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 trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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In 1800, the population of the area of modern-day Bangladesh was estimated to be just over 19 million, a figure which would rise steadily throughout the 19th century, reaching over 26 million by 1900. At the time, Bangladesh was the eastern part of the Bengal region in the British Raj, and had the most-concentrated Muslim population in the subcontinent's east. At the turn of the 20th century, the British colonial administration believed that east Bengal was economically lagging behind the west, and Bengal was partitioned in 1905 as a means of improving the region's development. East Bengal then became the only Muslim-majority state in the eastern Raj, which led to socioeconomic tensions between the Hindu upper classes and the general population. Bengal Famine During the Second World War, over 2.5 million men from across the British Raj enlisted in the British Army and their involvement was fundamental to the war effort. The war, however, had devastating consequences for the Bengal region, as the famine of 1943-1944 resulted in the deaths of up to three million people (with over two thirds thought to have been in the east) due to starvation and malnutrition-related disease. As the population boomed in the 1930s, East Bengal's mismanaged and underdeveloped agricultural sector could not sustain this growth; by 1942, food shortages spread across the region, millions began migrating in search of food and work, and colonial mismanagement exacerbated this further. On the brink of famine in early-1943, authorities in India called for aid and permission to redirect their own resources from the war effort to combat the famine, however these were mostly rejected by authorities in London. While the exact extent of each of these factors on causing the famine remains a topic of debate, the general consensus is that the British War Cabinet's refusal to send food or aid was the most decisive. Food shortages did not dissipate until late 1943, however famine deaths persisted for another year. Partition to independence Following the war, the movement for Indian independence reached its final stages as the process of British decolonization began. Unrest between the Raj's Muslim and Hindu populations led to the creation of two separate states in1947; the Muslim-majority regions became East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (now Pakistan), separated by the Hindu-majority India. Although East Pakistan's population was larger, power lay with the military in the west, and authorities grew increasingly suppressive and neglectful of the eastern province in the following years. This reached a tipping point when authorities failed to respond adequately to the Bhola cyclone in 1970, which claimed over half a million lives in the Bengal region, and again when they failed to respect the results of the 1970 election, in which the Bengal party Awami League won the majority of seats. Bangladeshi independence was claimed the following March, leading to a brutal war between East and West Pakistan that claimed between 1.5 and three million deaths in just nine months. The war also saw over half of the country displaced, widespread atrocities, and the systematic rape of hundreds of thousands of women. As the war spilled over into India, their forces joined on the side of Bangladesh, and Pakistan was defeated two weeks later. An additional famine in 1974 claimed the lives of several hundred thousand people, meaning that the early 1970s was one of the most devastating periods in the country's history. Independent Bangladesh In the first decades of independence, Bangladesh's political hierarchy was particularly unstable and two of its presidents were assassinated in military coups. Since transitioning to parliamentary democracy in the 1990s, things have become comparatively stable, although political turmoil, violence, and corruption are persistent challenges. As Bangladesh continues to modernize and industrialize, living standards have increased and individual wealth has risen. Service industries have emerged to facilitate the demands of Bangladesh's developing economy, while manufacturing industries, particularly textiles, remain strong. Declining fertility rates have seen natural population growth fall in recent years, although the influx of Myanmar's Rohingya population due to the displacement crisis has seen upwards of one million refugees arrive in the country since 2017. In 2020, it is estimated that Bangladesh has a population of approximately 165 million people.

Chart and table of the Pakistan fertility rate from 1950 to 2025. United Nations projections are also included through the year 2100.

Pakistan PK: Sex Ratio at Birth: Male Births per Female Births data was reported at 1.087 Ratio in 2017. This stayed constant from the previous number of 1.087 Ratio for 2016. Pakistan PK: Sex Ratio at Birth: Male Births per Female Births data is updated yearly, averaging 1.086 Ratio from Dec 1962 (Median) to 2017, with 21 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.096 Ratio in 2002 and a record low of 1.064 Ratio in 1992. Pakistan PK: Sex Ratio at Birth: Male Births per Female Births data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Pakistan – Table PK.World Bank.WDI: Population and Urbanization Statistics. Sex ratio at birth refers to male births per female births. The data are 5 year averages.; ; United Nations Population Division. World Population Prospects: 2017 Revision.; Weighted average;

According to a survey conducted in selected Asian countries in February and March 2022, 99.8 percent of Muslim respondents residing in Indonesia responded that they would fast during Ramadan in 2022. In comparison, around 86 percent of Muslims living in Uzbekistan planned to fast during Ramadan in 2022.

In 2022, the highest and lowest rates of economic inactivity were in the combined Pakistani and Bangladeshi (33%) and white 'other’ (15%) ethnic groups.

The literacy rate measures the percentage of people aged 15 and above who are able to read and write. In 2019, Pakistan's total literacy rate was around 58 percent, with less than 46.49 percent of women being literate and more than 69.29 percent of men.

Women in Pakistan need education

In Pakistan, women’s education is in dire need of improvement, and so far, the number of illiterate women has not decreased - on the contrary, it has been going up for years. Although education for both genders is not prohibited in Pakistan, women are generally not as well educated as men. But it doesn’t stop there: Pakistan is one of the countries deemed worst for women in general when it comes to quality of life and safety.

Economy and education

Pakistan is a predominantly Muslim country with a low urbanization rate, meaning the majority of its population live in rural areas, where education is traditionally harder to come by than in cities. Pakistan is still a developing country, and typically, most of the inhabitants work in the primary sector, since Pakistan is rich in arable land. However, the tertiary sector generates the lion’s share of GDP. If the country wants to make the leap to being a developed nation, education and equality need to be higher on the list.

In 2011, about 79.8 percent of the population across India identified as Hindus. This was a decrease from about 84 percent in 1951. Despite of this decrease, India still has a majority of Hindu population compared to other religions in the country.

As of January 2024, India had a total of 362 million Instagram users, the largest Instagram audience in the world. The United States had 169 million users, and Brazil had 134 million. Indonesia, Turkey, and Japan ranked in fourth, fifth and sixth position, respectively. Brunei is the leading country for Instagram audience reach, with 92 percent of the population using the social media service. Guam came in second, with a penetration rate of 79.2 percent and the Cayman Islands ranked third, with 78.8 percent, followed closely by Kazakhstan, Iceland and Montenegro. It took Instagram 11.2 years to reach the milestone of 2 billion monthly active users worldwide. WhatsApp, also owned by Meta, took 11 years, whilst Facebook took 13.3 years and YouTube took just over 14 years. Instagram’s demographics in the United States As of May 2021, Instagram was the fourth most visited social media service in the United States, after Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter. Out of TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat, TikTok was the most used of all three platforms by Generation Z. Overall, 57 percent of Gen Z social media users used Instagram, down from 61 percent in 2020 and 64 percent in 2019. Instagram finds most popularity with those in the 25 to 34 year age group, and as of December 2021, roughly a third of all users in the United States belonged to this age group. The social media app was also more likely to be used by women. Most followed accounts on Instagram Instagram’s official account had the most followers as of February 2022 with over 470 million followers. Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) had over 401 million followers on the platform and media personality and makeup mogul Kylie Jenner (@kyliejenner) had over 309 million followers. National Geographic (@natgeo) had over 206.9 million followers, sharing educational content through its renowned photojournalism.

During the year 2018, the total number of all of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan were over 1.35 million. The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that is considered a mandatory religious duty by practicing Muslims.

During 2020, the number of Umrah performers in Saudi Arabia dropped significantly to about six million performers, compared to about 19 million performers in the previous year. Ramadan is, besides the main pilgrimage season of Hajj, one of the busiest time for the holy city of Mecca.

Pilgrims The Saudi Arabian government issued over 7 million Umrah visas for the Month of Ramadan. The majority of foreign pilgrims for the Ramadan season hailed from Pakistan with over 1.59 million people. Followed by Pilgrims from Indonesia and Egypt. Majority of domestic pilgrims for Ramadan where either resident of the holy city of Mecca or traveled form the Saudi Capital of Riyadh.

Ramadan The month of Ramadan is an important time for Muslims to reset their spirituality and connect with their faith. During this month observing Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. They abstain during this time from eating, drinking, smoking or any other physical pleasures to purify themselves. The breaking of the daily fast is a special time and spend with the family. Traditionally dates are the first food eaten to break the fast, followed by a proper meal. The end of the Ramadan month is celebrated with three-day long Holiday called Eid-Al-Fitr.

This statistic depicts global views on premarital sex in 2013. In Indonesia, 97 percent of residents believe that premarital sex among adults is morally unacceptable. Sex before marriage Nine out of ten people in Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, and Turkey believed that engaging in sex before marriage was not acceptable. The majority of the Europeans found premarital sex to be morally acceptable or not a moral issue at all. Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world totaling over 209 million people. In some religions, like Catholicism and Islam, having sex before marriage is considered morally unacceptable. Other predominantly religious countries such as Jordan and Pakistan also have similar rates of this belief.In the United States, 29 percent of people consider the act of having sex before marriage as morally wrong while 20 percent believe that getting a divorce is also morally unacceptable . Abstinence-only sex education is not uncommon in the United States where states can apply for federal funding for these programs. Abstinence-only programs try to prevent teens or all unmarried individuals from having any sexual activity. Critics state that these programs often include negative messages about sexuality, gender roles, and may also try to minimize the effectiveness of birth control. Some 13 percent of teenage students desire more information about contraceptive use . Education about contraception and safe sex can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.