List of Countries with Absolute Monarchy in 2025

While democracy and constitutional monarchies dominate much of the world today, a few nations still retain absolute monarchies — systems where a single ruler exercises total authority over the government and people. In such states, there are no effective constitutional checks or elected parliaments to limit the monarch’s power.

Let’s explore the countries that still have absolute monarchs in the modern world and understand how they function.

What is an Absolute Monarchy?

An absolute monarchy is a form of government in which the monarch has unrestricted political power over the state and its people. Unlike constitutional monarchies (such as the UK or Japan), these rulers are not bound by a constitution or parliament. Their word is the ultimate law.

List of Countries with an Absolute Monarchy

Country	Monarch Name
Saudi Arabia	King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Brunei	Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah
Oman	Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said
Eswatini	King Mswati III
Vatican City	Pope Leo XIV

1. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s most well-known absolute monarchies. The ruling House of Saud, led by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, wields complete control over political, economic, and social affairs. The nation has no written constitution; instead, governance is based on Islamic Sharia law and the Quran. There are no elected bodies to challenge royal authority, and all major decisions — from foreign policy to the oil-rich economy — rest solely with the King and his family.

2. Brunei

In Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has ruled since 1967 with absolute authority. As both the head of state and head of government, the Sultan oversees all aspects of governance without an elected parliament. The country’s oil and gas wealth funds extensive welfare programs, such as free education, healthcare, and housing, and citizens pay no income tax. Political opposition is banned, and the Sultan’s rule is reinforced by traditional Islamic and Malay customs.

3. Oman

Oman is ruled by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, who holds complete authority over both political and military affairs. While the country has a consultative council, it only serves in an advisory capacity and cannot challenge or veto the Sultan’s decisions. Oman is admired for its stability and balanced modernization, combining progress with deep respect for traditional culture. The Sultan’s absolute power allows for swift policy decisions that have helped modernize the nation.

4. Eswatini (Swaziland)

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is Africa’s last absolute monarchy. King Mswati III has near-total control over the government, military, and judiciary. Political parties are banned, and the King personally appoints the Prime Minister and most key officials. Despite criticism from international observers regarding human rights, the monarchy remains deeply embedded in Eswatini’s cultural and traditional identity, and many citizens view the King as a spiritual and national leader.

5. Vatican City

Vatican City is a unique case of absolute monarchy, ruled by Pope Leo XIV. The Pope serves as both the head of state and the spiritual leader of the global Roman Catholic Church. His authority is absolute, covering all matters of governance, administration, and law within the Vatican. There are no political elections, and decisions are final, making it the smallest — but one of the most powerful — absolute monarchies in the world.