nowadays many people show scientific tricks and call these magic show. does this type of magic show fall under the category of shirk or major sin? and is it allowed to see and enjoy these shows?

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

These shows, which are based on the skill of fast hand movement, fast body movement, or disguise of some materials to make it appear other than reality; these things are not included in the magic that is Kufr (disbelief). Nonetheless, these kind of shows are despised by some scholars. Imam An-Nawawi has explicitly stated that they are forbidden as indicated by Al-Aloosi in his Tafseer (interpretation of the Quran).

The Islamic Council for Issuing Fataawa in Jerusalem issued a Fatwa stating that it is impermissible to watch these shows.

In any case, a Muslim should refrain from watching them, because his time is more precious than to waste it on such things and on matters that are controversial.

Indeed, there are many permissible types of entertainment which are not controversial that a Muslim may watch instead of them.

Ibn ‘Abbaas narrated that the Prophet said: “There are two blessings in which many people incur loss: health and free time.” [Al-Bukhari]

Allah knows best.