- By Ridam Sharma
- Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:58 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Countries Where Hijab Is Mandatory: Hijab is a type of headscarf worn by most Muslim women worldwide. The hijab is also signified with modesty and religion in many parts of the muslim-dominated countries. Wearing the hijab is a choice in most nations. However, there are also some nations where this religious attire is mandatory for women to wear in public. These regulations are mostly enforced due to religious and cultural concerns. To know more, here’s a list of countries where hijab is mandatory, according to the data by the World Population Review and Inside Monkey reports.
List Of Countries Where Hijab Is Mandatory:
Iran
In Iran, since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, it became mandatory for all women to wear the hijab and dress modestly when they are out of their houses. This is for both Iranian women and tourists. Here, the police make sure every woman follows this law, and anyone who does not can be penalised with fines or other consequences. Many Iranian women have complained about this regulation, but the mandatory hijab law still stands firm.
Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, women must wear the hijab or even other Islamic religious clothes like the burqa, which completely covers the body. It has been strictly enforced after the Talibans returned to power in 2021. If women do not follow these rules, they face severe repercussions. The mandatory hijab law continues to question women's liberty in the country.
It is important to note that the Hijab is only mandatory in Iran and Afghanistan, as per law enforcement.
Also Read: No Hijab, No Niqab: Why THESE Muslim-Majority Countries Ban Face Coverings In Public Places
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia requires women to dress modestly in public, which typically involves wearing an abaya (a black cloak) and a hijab. Although the rules are tight for Saudi women, the government has loosened up slightly about dress code requirements for tourists. For Saudi women, the hijab is also a cultural norm and a sign of respect for many of them. However, there is no mention that the Hijab is legally required here.
Also Read: List Of 20+ Countries That Have Banned Burqa: Check Full List with Reasons
Iraq
In Iraq, particularly in religious cities like Najaf and Karbala, it is necessary for women to wear the hijab when they are out of their homes. Most women also wear an abaya here. Hijab is worn due to social pressure, but no formal law has been established in the country. The custom is widely followed in society and implemented strictly in holy places than in other parts of the nation.
In nations like these, where the hijab is more than an article of attire, it is a symbol of religion and culture. There are women across the globe who follow these norms with their choice. However, some women resisted these laws, demanding greater respect and privilege to decide how they dress. For most other Muslim nations, wearing the hijab is a matter of choice, highlighting the variance of the religious practice globally.