Is it permissible to travel and reside in non-Muslim countries for work in the field of surgery, knowing that living in the current Arab country is considered a war against the religion of Allah and a harassment of the people of Tawhid?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
It is not forbidden for a Muslim to reside in a non-Muslim country if he is able to practice his religious rites and is safe from temptation. However, it is preferable to reside in Muslim countries.
If the country in which one grew up fights against religion and restricts its adherents, then the balance at that point is to choose the lesser of two evils, by prioritizing the country that is more conducive to obedience to Allah and further from disobedience to Him.
If you are unable to assess, then you should perform (prayer for guidance) and consult with people of experience and knowledge.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/181762
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 181762
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy