Top 10 Shia Muslim Countries in the World | Biggest Countries with Shia Population

While Shia Muslims are a minority within the broader Muslim population, they have a significant presence in several countries around the world. Some countries with significant Shia Muslim populations include:

1. Iran:

Iran is the largest Shia-majority country in the world, with a vast majority of its population adhering to Twelver Shia Islam, which is the largest branch of Shia Islam. The country is not only a center of Shia religious authority but also has a significant impact on Shia communities worldwide.

2. Iraq:

Iraq has a significant Shia Muslim population, and the majority of its citizens are Shia. The holy cities of Najaf and Karbala are particularly important to Shia Islam.

3. Bahrain:

Bahrain has a Shia majority, but the ruling monarchy is Sunni. This has led to some tensions within the country.

4. Lebanon:

Lebanon has a diverse religious population, and Shia Muslims, primarily represented by Hezbollah, are a significant political and military force in the country.

5. Azerbaijan:

A significant portion of Azerbaijan's population is Shia Muslim, primarily of the Twelver Shia branch.

6. Yemen:

Yemen has a significant Shia population, primarily in the northern region of the country. The Houthi rebel movement, which follows Zaidi Shia Islam, has been involved in ongoing conflicts in Yemen.

7. Syria:

Syria has a notable Shia population, including Alawites, who are often associated with Shia Islam.

8. Pakistan:

While the majority of Pakistan's population is Sunni, there are significant Shia communities in the country, primarily in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan.

9. India:

India has a substantial Shia Muslim population, particularly in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, Lucknow, and Hyderabad.

It's important to note that Shia Muslims can be found in communities throughout the world, and they may be a minority within predominantly Sunni countries. The above list highlights countries with significant Shia populations, but there are Shia communities and followers of various Shia branches in many other nations as well.