Q: I am a UI/UX designer based in Bangladesh. UI/UX means the apps we see on mobile and the websites we see on the web. I design those interfaces, and then a developer codes them so that people like you and me can use or view them. That’s what I do for a living. The design I create doesn’t go directly to the users or the public — it is first developed by a developer, and only after that does it go live for users to see or use.
I wanted to seek your guidance regarding what kind of design work is considered Halal or Haram in my field. As a designer, I sometimes receive project offers from different industries, and I want to make sure my work remains within Islamic boundaries.
For example:
1. If I design a medical website, can I include an image of a doctor or model who is not wearing hijab but is dressed modestly? Is that permissible?
2. What types of projects are allowed for me as a Muslim designer? For instance:
• Can I design apps or websites related to music (for example, ticket booking apps for concerts)?
• Can I design gaming websites or apps? or let me what to avoid.
3. Can I design a website for another religion? For example, if I need to create a Christmas-themed website or include elements that represent other faiths — would that be permissible for me as a Muslim designer?
4. In my work, I sometimes use AI tools that generate images or videos. Is it permissible to generate human or animal images using AI?
5. Related to that, is it permissible if I train AI using my own photos and then generate images of myself in different clothes or poses for design or presentation purposes? I want to ensure my income and work remain Halal, In shaa Allah, and I would truly appreciate your advice and guidance on these matters.
A: It is not permissible for a believer to get involved in things that contravene the laws of Islam. Hence, it is not permissible for you to design a website with music or with pictures of animate objects or with things that relate to other religions as you will be breaking the laws of Shari’ah and promoting and aiding in sin.
Severe warnings have been sounded in the mubaarak Ahaadith for all those who get involved in the grave sin of photography or listen to music or who imitate other religions in their festivities or haraam actions.
Therefore, it is not permissible for you to design a website or prepare an app which contains these haraam elements.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Checked & Approved: