Top Shia Muslims Population in the World by Country
Shia Muslims are a branch of Islam that represents around 15-20% of the world's Muslim population. The Shia believe that the Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, Ali ibn Abi Talib, was the rightful successor to the Prophet and the first Imam of the Shia. They also believe in the other eleven Imams who followed Ali, and that the leadership of the Muslim community should belong to them.
Shia Muslims have a different set of religious practices and beliefs from Sunni Muslims, the other major branch of Islam. For example, Shia Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, during the holy month of Muharram. They also place greater emphasis on the role of the Imams as religious authorities and leaders.
The Shia are present in many countries, but are particularly concentrated in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Bahrain, and Azerbaijan. There are also significant Shia populations in other parts of the world, including South Asia, East Africa, and the Gulf states.
