12 Muslim Anime to Watch, Japanese Animation with Islamic Elements

Certain anime fans use the term “Islamic anime” or “Muslim anime” to describe shows that either spotlight Muslim characters and themes or resonate with values consistent with Islam. This might involve incorporating Islamic imagery, language, or ideas or simply avoiding themes that clash with Islamic teachings, such as explicit content, extreme violence, or irreligious ideologies. For this list, we focus on anime that directly reference or integrate Islamic culture or characters.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Muslim Anime - JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Back in 2008, Studio APPP and publisher Shueisha encountered controversy when Islamic organizations from Egypt raised concerns over a scene in the 2000 OVA adaptation of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, where antagonist DIO was seen reading a book containing Qur’anic scripture. This led to the immediate suspension of distribution for both the manga and the OVA.

Though that particular scene never appeared in the manga, Shueisha took the issue seriously and asked series creator Hirohiko Araki to modify visuals in which characters were seen damaging or standing atop mosque-like structures. This caused a temporary halt in the English manga’s publication, with Viz Media and Shueisha pulling back for a year.

When the manga resumed distribution, the OVA remained shelved permanently. Some speculate this controversy contributed to the 2007 Phantom Blood movie never receiving a home video release, turning it into lost media.

Earlier adaptations, such as the 1991 manga, 1993 OVA, and 1999’s Heritage for the Future, featured scenes with Islamic architecture being destroyed — including one where Kakyoin stands on a mosque’s minaret. After the 2008 controversy, these visuals were revised. In the 2015 anime version, the minaret was replaced with a steel tower, and the mosque was swapped out for a generic billboard. The redrawn manga version replaced the tower with a European-style bell tower.

Even in 2017, Universal Studios Japan’s JoJo 4D ride avoided Islamic imagery, featuring neutral structures in its animation trailer.

Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic & Magi: The Adventures of Sinbad

Muslim Anime - Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic

Both Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic and its spin-off, Magi: The Adventures of Sinbad, pull heavily from Islamic traditions and Arabic folklore. These series weave mythological themes drawn from Islamic narratives and the iconic One Thousand and One Nights tales, blending fantasy with deep cultural references.

Jinn (or Djinn)

The concept of Djinn is central to the Magi. These mystical beings can be summoned and controlled by spiritually attuned individuals. While the names of the Djinn in the series are inspired by the demonology of the Lesser Key of Solomon, their inclusion aligns with the Islamic belief in Jinn as sentient, supernatural beings made of smokeless fire.

King Solomon

The story positions Solomon—a revered prophet in Islam known for his command over Jinn—as a pivotal figure. In the anime, he is depicted as the originator of the Djinn and as a just ruler who sought harmony between races and species, mirroring Islamic lore about his wisdom and justice.

Sinbad the Sailor

In Magi, Sinbad is a major protagonist, serving as both a charismatic leader and cunning warrior. The legendary adventurer from Middle Eastern folklore directly inspires his character. The Adventures of Sinbad chronicles his rise to power and his strategic use of Djinn, aligning with his mythical counterpart’s fabled journeys and cleverness.

Dungeons & Magic

Dungeons play a recurring role in the plot — magical, trap-laden labyrinths housing powerful Djinn. These trials reflect the moral and mystical tests seen in classic Islamic and Arabian storytelling.

Black Magic and Al-Thamen

The darker side of the series introduces black magic and corrupt Djinn. The antagonistic group, Al-Thamen (translated to “The Eight”), embodies chaos and destruction. These characters, including their leader, who reflects the Islamic figure Iblis (Satan), represent fallen beings who rebelled against divine order — a direct nod to Islamic cosmology about Jinn and Shayatin (devils).

Overall, Magi serves as a compelling blend of action, spirituality, and cultural mythos, offering a unique look at Islamic-inspired fantasy through a modern anime lens.

Altair: A Record of Battles

Muslim Anime - Altair: A Record of Battles

Set in a fictional landscape resembling 15th-century Eurasia, Altair: A Record of Battles revolves around political intrigue, diplomacy, and war. The protagonist, Mahmut Tuğrul, is the youngest Pasha in the history of the Türkiye Stratocracy — a fictional empire inspired by the Ottoman Empire. Mahmut is a pacifist at heart, striving to maintain peace while navigating the complexities of a world on the brink of large-scale conflict.

The narrative begins with a relatively confined setting, focusing on Mahmut’s early efforts to stop war. However, as the story develops, it evolves into a continent-wide saga involving strategic alliances, betrayal, and philosophical debates about governance and justice.

Although not explicitly religious, Altair’s cultural atmosphere is deeply influenced by Islamic and Middle Eastern traditions. The art style reflects Turkish aesthetics, from clothing to architecture, and the names and customs depicted borrow from historical Islamic cultures.

From military hierarchy to religious tolerance and the importance of justice, Altair echoes values central to Islamic teachings without being overtly doctrinal. The inclusion of calligraphic design, crescent motifs, and Ottoman-style cities adds further depth to the cultural setting, giving the show a unique identity among historical anime.

Arslan Senki

Muslim Anime - Arslan Senki

The Heroic Legend of Arslan—known as Arslan Senki—is a compelling anime series rooted in a rich blend of historical and cultural inspirations. While it is primarily a work of fantasy, the show draws heavily from real-world civilizations, most notably ancient Persia. Although Arslan Senki does not directly tackle Islamic themes or explicitly focus on the Ottoman Empire, its world is deeply infused with the aesthetics and power structures reminiscent of those eras.

Historical Foundations: Echoes of Ancient Persia

At the heart of Arslan Senki lies a fictional kingdom called Pars, which clearly mirrors the Sassanid Empire—Persia before the advent of Islam in the 7th century. This historical connection forms the backbone of the anime’s world-building, imbuing it with authenticity and depth. The Sassanid era, known for its grandeur, social hierarchy, and resistance to foreign conquest, is reflected in the setting, political turmoil, and cultural values that shape the series’ plot.

Cultural and Islamic Aesthetics

Though not overtly religious, the series integrates various elements inspired by Islamic and Middle Eastern history. Architectural designs, traditional garments, and weapons in the anime exhibit evident influences from Islamic art and culture. Domed buildings, intricate patterns, and ceremonial robes hint at the stylistic characteristics of early Islamic societies. These touches are not used to advance religious narratives but rather to enhance the richness and realism of the setting.

Ottoman-Style Intrigue and Strategy

Some of the political maneuverings and military themes presented in Arslan Senki may remind viewers of the complex dynamics of the Ottoman Empire. The anime explores themes such as succession struggles, shifting alliances, and imperial ambitions, which parallel the rise and governance of the Ottomans. While these similarities exist, they function more as narrative tools than explicit historical references, emphasizing universal patterns of power and conflict rather than specific historical events.

Focus on Human Drama Over Theology

It’s important to note that Arslan Senki is primarily a tale of personal growth, loyalty, and leadership. The story revolves around Arslan, a young prince forced into exile who must reclaim his throne and rebuild his war-torn nation. Religious ideologies, while present in the world’s design, are not the story’s central concern. Instead, the series emphasizes the moral and strategic challenges of kingship, war, and diplomacy.

One Piece

Muslim Anime - One Piece

One Piece, the long-running anime series created by Eiichiro Oda, is renowned for its world-building and the way it weaves real-world inspirations into its story arcs. One of the most notable examples is the Alabasta Arc, which clearly homages Middle Eastern and North African cultures, particularly ancient Egyptian and Arab traditions.

Alabasta: A Desert Kingdom with Deep Roots

The Kingdom of Alabasta is a vast desert land located in the Grand Line and is the fourth central location the Straw Hat Pirates visit. The name itself is derived from “alabaster,” a mineral historically used in Egyptian carvings and architecture. This choice subtly connects the fictional kingdom to ancient civilizations known for their majestic desert empires.

Visual and Cultural Homages

Throughout the Alabasta Arc, viewers can observe numerous references to Arabic and Middle Eastern traditions. Character names such as Abdullah, Khalifa, Jeet, Suleiman, and Hajrudin are drawn from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds rooted in the Arab and Islamic world. Moreover, the characters’ attire—featuring flowing robes, turbans, kurtas, and kaftans—mirrors traditional garments found across the region.

The background art in Alabasta further strengthens this connection. Domed structures resembling mosques, arched windows, and bustling marketplaces create an environment that feels inspired by Arab cities. Extras are shown wearing hijabs and keffiyehs, contributing to the authenticity and immersive nature of the setting.

Localized Interpretations and Controversies

Interestingly, in some international adaptations—particularly the Spanish dub—the cultural references were amplified. Several characters were portrayed as practicing Muslims, frequently mentioning Allah. This localization choice sparked a range of reactions, with some appreciating the attempt at representation and others questioning its accuracy or appropriateness in the context of a fantasy anime.

Despite these varying perspectives, the Alabasta Arc remains a vibrant celebration of Arab aesthetics cleverly adapted into the One Piece universe.

Yugo the Negotiator

Muslim Anime - Yugo the Negotiator

Yugo the Negotiator is an anime, unlike many others. With its grounded tone and mature themes, it explores complex socio-political landscapes, particularly in its arc set in Pakistan. Here, Islam is not just a background detail—it plays a crucial role in the character’s motivations and the narrative itself.

Authentic Cultural Representation

The series makes a concerted effort to represent Pakistani society with a degree of realism rarely seen in anime. Traditional customs, language nuances, and the day-to-day realities of life in the region are portrayed with attention to detail. This grounded approach sets the stage for a story that grapples with high-stakes diplomacy, cultural misunderstanding, and ideological conflict.

Extremism and Conflict

One of the central threads of the story involves religious rebels who kidnap foreign nationals, including the protagonist Yugo’s target for negotiation. These rebels, though antagonistic, are depicted with layers of motivation rooted in political and religious discontent rather than being painted as one-dimensional villains.

Reviews, such as those from Amazon and THEM Anime Reviews, have noted that while the animation may lack polish, the narrative’s attempt to humanize and contextualize these characters stands out. Rather than resorting to stereotypes, the series presents the rebels as products of their environment, shaped by a mixture of faith, frustration, and history.

Exploring Belief Systems

Yugo the Negotiator does more than just use Islam as a narrative backdrop; it delves into questions about the role of religion in shaping identity, morality, and action. Faith is portrayed both as a source of comfort and a catalyst for conflict. Through Yugo’s interactions, the show encourages viewers to consider how religious conviction can influence worldviews and political behavior, especially in volatile regions.

A Rarely Seen Perspective in Anime

In a medium that often avoids religious subject matter—especially that of Islam—Yugo the Negotiator takes a bold step. It doesn’t always hit the mark in terms of accuracy or nuance, but its ambition and effort to explore such themes thoughtfully are commendable.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00

Muslim Anime - Gundam 00

Gundam 00 stands out among the Gundam franchise entries for its nuanced engagement with political, social, and ideological conflicts. A particularly notable moment comes in episode 12, titled “To the Limits of Holy Teachings.” This episode hints at Islamic themes, not necessarily through direct representation of the faith but rather through ideological parallels—the narrative centers on an extremist group invoking religious justifications for their actions. The use of such a title suggests a thematic alignment with debates around extremism and the distortion of spiritual principles. Although the series does not delve deeply into Islamic theology, this episode serves as a symbolic examination of how sacred doctrines can be manipulated in the context of war and ideology.

Black Lagoon

Muslim Anime - Black Lagoon

In its gritty, action-packed narrative, Black Lagoon introduces a variety of real-world inspired criminal and militant factions. The latter part of the first season introduces a terrorist organization known as the “Protectors of the Islamic Front.” Spanning episodes 11 and 12, this arc portrays the group as a radical militant faction. The anime portrays them primarily as antagonists within a violent, amoral underworld. It’s important to note that while the group’s name invokes Islamic terminology, the story does not explore their beliefs or practices in depth. Instead, the group functions more as a narrative device, representing the type of ideological extremism that exists in the show’s chaotic, globalized criminal landscape. The use of Islam here is superficial, focused more on aesthetics and global terrorism stereotypes than an exploration of faith.

Full Metal Panic!

Muslim Anime - Full Metal Panic!

One of the more complex and layered instances of cultural referencing appears in Full Metal Panic!, particularly through the backstory of the protagonist, Sousuke Sagara. Raised amidst conflict in a fictionalized war-torn nation called Helmajistan—clearly modeled after Afghanistan during the Soviet invasion—Sousuke’s early years were spent under the guardianship of a local Muslim family. This upbringing plays a crucial role in shaping his highly disciplined, militarized personality, which starkly contrasts with the norms of everyday Japanese school life. While the show refrains from labeling his exact ethnicity or religious affiliation, there are subtle nods to Islamic culture, such as occasional mentions of Ramadan or the Quran (without directly quoting scripture). These references, however, are sparse and never central to the plot, serving more as contextual background than thematic focus.

Emma: A Victorian Romance

Muslim Anime - Emma: A Victorian Romance

In Emma: A Victorian Romance, a beautifully animated period drama set in 19th-century England, the presence of Prince Hakim Atawari introduces a multicultural element into an otherwise Eurocentric narrative. Hailing from India, Hakim is a fascinating amalgam of various South Asian identities. His name—Hakim—is traditionally associated with Muslim communities in India. However, his visual portrayal includes wearing a Tilaka, a mark typically worn by Hindus, and his female companions dress in Saris, garments more closely linked with Hindu tradition than Islamic attire. The show focuses more on Hakim’s royal stature and flamboyant personality than his religious background, which is never explicitly mentioned. This blending of cultural signifiers reflects a broader tendency in anime to conflate or generalize Eastern traditions, especially when viewed through a Western historical lens.

A Bride’s Story (Otoyomegatari)

Muslim Anime - Otoyomegatari

Perhaps one of the most respectful and immersive portrayals of Islamic culture in anime comes from Otoyomegatari, known in English as A Bride’s Story. Set in 19th-century Central Asia, the series centers on the daily lives of Turkic tribal communities, the majority of whom are Muslim. While religion is not the primary focus, Islamic customs, and cultural practices are subtly interwoven into the fabric of everyday life—through attire, social rituals, family structures, and gender dynamics. The characters pray, adhere to modest dress, and follow community traditions rooted in Islamic norms, yet none of this is presented as exotic or over-explained. Instead, the anime (and, more extensively, the manga) treats these cultural details with a kind of organic normalcy, offering viewers a window into rural Muslim life without sensationalizing it. It’s a quiet, respectful depiction that highlights humanity over ideology.

Code Geass

Muslim Anime - Code Geass

In the geopolitical chessboard of Code Geass, the world is divided into massive superstates, one of which is the Middle Eastern Federation. This fictional Federation seems to be a loose amalgamation of various Middle Eastern countries, presumably bound by cultural or religious commonalities. However, the series provides scant detail about the internal structure, beliefs, or societal norms of this Federation. It exists primarily as a background element in the global conflict, and Islam—as a religion or cultural force—is not explicitly addressed. The Federation’s presence serves more as a narrative placeholder to indicate the global scale of the series’ power struggles.

These anime titles stand out for their distinctive inclusion of Islamic characters, motifs, and philosophical themes. Whether through supernatural beings like Jinn, legendary figures such as Solomon and Sinbad, or settings that resemble Islamic civilizations, these shows highlight a fascinating intersection between Japanese storytelling and Muslim culture.

From the mystical realms of Magi to the politically charged world of Altair, and even the unexpected controversy in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, it’s clear that anime has found creative ways to explore — and sometimes stumble into — Islamic cultural references, offering Muslim viewers rare but meaningful representation in the medium. That’s it, the Muslim anime list.