Quick Verdict
Disney (DIS) is generally considered NOT HALAL by mainstream Islamic screening agencies. Disney's primary business is entertainment content production and distribution — including adult content on streaming platforms, sports gambling through ESPN, and content that conflicts with Islamic values.
Disney's Business Segments
- Entertainment (Disney+, Hulu, ABC, movies) — ~45% of revenue: Content production and streaming
- ESPN (~20% of revenue): Sports media, including sports betting partnerships
- Experiences (theme parks, resorts, merchandise) — ~35% of revenue: Physical entertainment destinations
Key Concerns
Hulu — Adult Content
Disney owns Hulu, which offers explicit adult content including softcore programming. This is a significant concern for Islamic screening — unlike Disney's family-friendly content, Hulu's library includes material most scholars would consider impermissible.
ESPN and Sports Gambling
ESPN has launched ESPN Bet, a sports betting platform, and earns revenue from gambling advertising and partnerships. Gambling (maysir) is explicitly prohibited in Islam. ESPN's betting revenue and gambling advertising ties Disney's income to an inherently haram activity.
Alcohol at Theme Parks
Disney theme parks sell alcohol, which represents a small but real portion of park revenue.
Financial Screening
- Debt / Market Cap: ~20-25% ⚠️
- Haram Revenue / Total Revenue: Gambling + adult content likely exceeds 5% ❌
Screening Agencies' Verdict
- Zoya App — Not Compliant ❌
- MSCI Islamic Index — Excluded ❌
- All major halal ETFs — Not held ❌
Bottom Line
Disney fails Islamic screening on multiple grounds — adult content through Hulu, gambling through ESPN Bet, and alcohol at parks. The entertainment sector as a whole is challenging for Muslim investors; the few compliant options are companies focused on family-friendly content or education. Disney is not among them.
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