As one of Al-Mahdi Institute’s six specialist research areas, Islamic Legal Studies examines Sharīʿa and fiqh across their historical development and contemporary application. The research investigates how uṣūl al-fiqh informs legal reasoning in addressing pressing ethical, political, and social questions, including those arising from technological change, governance, and human rights. Drawing on the classical Islamic legal tradition while engaging contemporary scholarly debates, this work explores the dynamic relationship between jurisprudential heritage and modern realities. Led by its Research Lead, this area convenes the annual international Contemporary Fiqh Issues workshop series, hosts research seminars and book talks, publishes peer-reviewed edited volumes, and supports visiting fellowships.