What is the ruling on belly dancing, and on opening schools to teach it in Muslim countries, and on men who imitate women by belly dancing?

If dancing is accompanied by forbidden elements such as musical instruments, mixing of sexes, suggestive movements, and nudity, then it is forbidden. This is the reality today. But if it is free from these elements, it is disliked (makrooh) due to the verse: "And do not walk upon the earth exultantly," and because it may lead to temptation.

However, if some common people engage in it on occasions without it becoming a habit or custom, while adhering to Sharia guidelines such as covering the 'awrah (parts of the body that must be covered), ensuring no temptation arises, and not arousing desires, then we hope the matter is permissible.

If a man's dance involves suggestive movements like those of effeminate men or imitation of women, then it is not permissible.

As for the ruling on opening schools to teach belly dancing: it follows the ruling on dancing itself. If the dancing is forbidden, then opening such schools is forbidden. If it is disliked, then opening them is disliked. In reality, it is far-fetched for these schools to be free from forbidden elements.