Top 10 Islamic scholars in the world: Islamic scholars play a vital role in helping Muslims across the world understand and practice their faith in a balanced and informed way. These scholars have contributed to spreading knowledge, promoting tolerance, and helping Muslims navigate contemporary issues through the lens of Islamic teachings. Here’s a look at ten prominent Islamic scholars, listed for their influence, dedication, and reach.
Top 10 Islamic scholars in the world 2025
1. Dr. Zakir Naik
Dr. Zakir Naik is a renowned Islamic preacher and founder of the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) in India. Known for his vast knowledge of comparative religion, Dr. Naik frequently holds interfaith dialogues and debates, explaining Islamic teachings and often clarifying misconceptions about Islam. His speeches, lectures, and TV appearances have reached audiences worldwide, making him one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Islamic thought.
2. Nouman Ali Khan
Nouman Ali Khan is an American-Pakistani scholar, founder of Bayyinah Institute, and a popular speaker on the Quran and its interpretation. Known for his unique style and ability to make complex Quranic teachings accessible, Nouman has helped many Muslims reconnect with the Quran and deepen their understanding of its guidance in today’s context. He addresses not only religious issues but also social topics, such as self-development and family relations, from an Islamic perspective.
3. Mufti Menk
Mufti Ismail Menk, popularly known as Mufti Menk, is a Zimbabwean scholar who has gained a massive following for his uplifting and positive messages. Mufti Menk’s work focuses on spiritual guidance, personal development, and social issues, to encourage Muslims to live with kindness, humility, and integrity. His warm, accessible approach and simple delivery make him a favorite among young Muslims worldwide.
4. Yasmin Mogahed
Yasmin Mogahed is a well-known author, motivational speaker, and Islamic scholar based in the United States. Specializing in personal and spiritual growth, she writes about Islamic psychology, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. Yasmin’s book, Reclaim Your Heart, has touched many people, especially young Muslims, by offering perspectives that resonate with those navigating life’s challenges.
5. Dalia Mogahed
Dalia Mogahed is an Egyptian-American scholar, researcher, and writer. She is the Director of Research at the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) and one of the leading voices on the perception of Islam and Muslims in America. Her work often addresses issues related to Islamophobia, Muslim identity, and the role of Muslims in the West, contributing valuable insights to interfaith dialogues and public understanding.
6. Omar Suleiman
Omar Suleiman is a prominent American Islamic scholar and the founder of the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research. He is also known for his activism and social work, particularly his efforts to promote social justice and interfaith harmony. With a deep understanding of both Islamic teachings and contemporary issues, Omar Suleiman reaches a wide audience with his guidance on faith, ethics, and empathy.
7. Yusuf Estes
A former Christian pastor, Yusuf Estes is a well-known Islamic speaker, preacher, and online personality. His journey to Islam and his approachable, humorous speaking style have made him popular among audiences worldwide. Yusuf Estes focuses on explaining Islamic principles in a relatable way and is committed to bridging gaps between Muslims and non-Muslims by fostering understanding and respect.
8. Moulana Tariq Jameel
Moulana Tariq Jameel is a revered Pakistani Islamic scholar known for his inspirational speeches. With a background in the traditional Islamic sciences, he is a key figure in the Tablighi Jamaat movement and focuses on self-reformation, spiritual growth, and unity among Muslims. His humble and relatable style, combined with his focus on compassion, has endeared him to millions in Pakistan and beyond.
9. Bilal Philips
Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips is a Jamaican-Canadian scholar and founder of the Islamic Online University (IOU), which offers free Islamic education to students around the world. Known for his contributions to Islamic education and his many published works, Bilal Philips addresses a wide range of topics, including Islamic theology, comparative religion, and contemporary issues from an Islamic perspective.
10. Taqi Usmani
Justice Muhammad Taqi Usmani is one of the most respected Islamic scholars and jurists today, especially renowned for his work in Islamic finance. Based in Pakistan, he has authored numerous books and scholarly works, including influential texts on Islamic law and finance. As a retired judge of Pakistan’s Supreme Court and a key figure in the global Islamic finance movement, his contributions have been instrumental in establishing Shariah-compliant finance as a viable alternative for Muslims around the world.