Hindu communities, though predominantly concentrated in South Asia, also have a presence in various Islamic-majority countries around the world. These populations vary significantly, ranging from millions in countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan to smaller expatriate groups in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. This article explores the distribution, cultural practices, and challenges faced by Hindus living in Islamic nations, offering a deeper understanding of their resilience and contributions to these societies.
Here is an overview of the Hindu population across Islamic nations, focusing on countries officially identifying as Islamic states or having Islam as the state religion:
South Asia
- Pakistan
Hindu population: ~4.5 million (1.85% of the population).
Most reside in Sindh province, especially Tharparkar. They often face discrimination but maintain cultural practices.
- Bangladesh
Hindu population: ~12.7 million (7.95%).
Despite challenges, Hindus form a significant minority and celebrate festivals like Durga Puja widely.
- Afghanistan
Hindu population: Less than 200.
Due to decades of war and the rise of the Taliban, most Hindus have emigrated to India or elsewhere.
Middle East
- Saudi Arabia
Hindu population: ~440,000.
Almost all are Indian expatriates. Practicing Hinduism publicly is prohibited.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Hindu population: ~1.2 million.
The UAE has Hindu temples and allows limited religious freedom for expatriates.
- Qatar
Hindu population: ~420,000.
Primarily Indian workers; Hindu temples are not officially allowed but private worship is practiced.
- Oman
Hindu population: ~300,000.
Oman’s Indian diaspora includes Hindus who have lived there for generations.
- Bahrain
Hindu population: ~125,000.
Bahrain allows Hindu temples and religious practice.
- Kuwait
Hindu population: ~600,000.
Hindu expatriates contribute to the workforce but face restrictions on public worship.
- Turkey
Hindu population: Very small (~200).
Mostly expatriates and travelers; Hinduism has no significant presence.
Southeast Asia
- Malaysia
Hindu population: ~1.9 million (6.3%).
Malaysian Hindus are primarily Tamil descendants and face restrictions but celebrate major festivals like Thaipusam.
- Indonesia
Hindu population: ~4 million (1.7%).
Although not an Islamic state, Indonesia has a Muslim majority. Hindus are concentrated in Bali.
- Brunei
Hindu population: ~10,000.
Hindus are mostly Indian workers with limited religious freedom.
Central Asia
- Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan
Hindu population: Minimal, mostly Indian expatriates and travelers.
Central Asia has no indigenous Hindu population.
North Africa
- Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Libya, Tunisia
Hindu population: Very small, primarily expatriates.
Public practice of Hinduism is limited due to strict Islamic laws.
Other Islamic States
- Iran
Hindu population: ~20,000, mainly expatriates.
Historically significant due to links with ancient India, but the modern Hindu presence is minimal.
- Maldives
Hindu population: Minimal.
Public practice of any religion other than Islam is banned.
Hindus in Islamic nations are primarily expatriates from South Asia (India, Nepal, Bangladesh). While some nations like the UAE and Malaysia allow limited religious practices, others like Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan have strict laws restricting public worship. The largest Hindu communities in Islamic-majority nations are found in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
