Flags of Afghanistan

The flag of Afghanistan has had more changes since the start of the 20th century than has that of any other country in the world. Afghanistan has had 20 different flags since the first flag when the Hotaki dynasty which made Afghanistan independent was established in 1709.

The current flag was adopted by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in 2004. This flag is similar to the one flown in Afghanistan during the monarchy between 1930 and 1973. The difference is the addition of the shahadah at the top of the coat of arms (seen in yellow) in the center. This flag consists of three stripes of the colors black, red, and green. This has been present on most flags of Afghanistan in the last twenty years. The center emblem is the classical emblem of Afghanistan with a mosque with its mihrab facing Mecca.

Current flag of Afghanistan

Current Flag of Afghanistan

Historical flags

Year of Use Flag Government
1709–1738   Hotak dynasty
1747–1842   Durani Empire
1826–1880  No official flag during this period. Emirate of Afghanistan
1880–1901 Emirate of Afghanistan
1901–1919 Emirate of Afghanistan
1919–1926 Emirate of Afghanistan
1926–1928 Kingdom of Afghanistan
1928 Kingdom of Afghanistan
1928–1929 Kingdom of Afghanistan
1929 Kingdom of Afghanistan
1929–1930 Kingdom of Afghanistan
1930–1973 Kingdom of Afghanistan
1973–1974 Republic of Afghanistan
1974–1978 Republic of Afghanistan
1978–1978 Democratic Republic of Afghanistan
1978–1980 Democratic Republic of Afghanistan
1980–1987 Democratic Republic of Afghanistan
1987–1992 Republic of Afghanistan
1992−1992 Islamic State of Afghanistan
1992 –1996 Islamic State of Afghanistan / Northern Alliance
1996–1997 Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
1997–2001 Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
2001–2002 Islamic State of Afghanistan
2002–2004 Transitional Administration
2004–present Islamic Republic of Afghanistan