Islamic calligraphy, which is also often referred to as Arabic calligraphy, is an artistic art of handwriting, or calligraphy, and includes binding, which develops in countries that generally have an Islamic cultural heritage. This form of art is based on Arabic writing, which for a long time has been used by many Muslims to write in their respective languages. Calligraphy is an art that is respected among various Islamic art, because it is the main tool for preserving the Qur'an. The rejection of figurative portrayals can lead to idolatry, causing abstract calligraphy and depiction to be the main forms of artistic expression in various Islamic cultures, especially in religious contexts. For example, the calligraphy of the name of God is permissible while the figurative portrayal of God is not permitted. Many calligraphy works are made into collections and are valued art products.

Arabic, Persian and Ottoman Turkish calligraphy have links with abstract arabesque motifs found on the walls and ceilings of mosques and on the pages of books. Contemporary artists in the Islamic world explore the heritage of their calligraphy and use calligraphy or abstraction in their various works of art.