Middle eastern gay men

Homosexuality in the Middle East is a subject marked by contradictions—between tradition and modernity, repression and resilience. Understanding the cultural, legal, and social dynamics of the region is essential for fostering meaningful dialogue and supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people generally have limited or highly restrictive rights in most parts of the Middle East, and are open to hostility in others. Sex between men is illegal in 9 of the 18 countries that make up the region. It is punishable by death in four of these 18 countries.