Several sultanates on the Comoros, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, were founded after the introduction of Islam into the area in the 15th century. Other titles could also be fani, mfaume and ntibe. Unlike sultans in many other Arab nations, these sultans had little real power. At one time alone on the island of Ndzuwani or Nzwani (today Anjouan), 40 fanis and other chiefs shared power of the island; Ngazidja (today Grand Comore) was at many times divided into 11 sultanates. This article addresses the major sultanates. The term Shirazis (derived from the former Persian capital Shiraz) is a reference to Iranian roots, in some dynasties. The sultans of Hamamvu (Washirazi sultans) are a surviving dynasty that claims origins in Persia and carries an extant connection to the Washirazi people of the East African Coast. The following five cities have been collectively proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Including:

Sultans of Ndzuwani (Anjouan)

Sultans of Mayotte

Mayotte was conquered by the Sultanate of Anjouan in 1835, after which it was ruled by Anjouani qadis (governors) until 1841 when it became a protectorate under the French.

Sultans on Ngazidja (Grande Comore)

Sultans of Bambao

Sultans of Itsandra

Styled "Mfaume" (in Shingazidja) or Mfalme (in Kiswahili)

Sultans of Mitsamihuli

Styled "Mfaume/Mfalme"

Sultans of Washili

Styled "Mfaume/Mfalme" Mukou

Sultans of Bajini

Styled "Mfaume/Mfalme"

Sultans of Hambuu

Styled "Mfaume/Mfalme"

Sultans of Hamahame

Styled "Mfaume/Mfalme"

Sultans of Mbwankuu

The sultan was also styled Mfaume/Mfalme; the only known incumbent (no dates) was: Bwana Fumu.

Sultans of Mbude

Sultans (also styled Mfaume/Mfalme) (no dates available):

Sultans of Domba

The sultan was also styled Mfaume/Mfalme; the only known incumbent (no dates) was: Febeja Mambwe.

Sultans of Mwali (Mohéli)

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