The ideal society has long been one of the fundamental issues in political philosophy and social ethics. Achieving such a society requires an understanding of its moral and political foundations and an examination of the factors influencing the realization of human happiness. The present study aims to conduct a comparative-critical examination of the ethical system of al-Farabi’s Virtuous City and the ideal society in the thought of Imam Ali (a.s.), seeking to identify the similarities and differences between these two models and to explain the distinguishing features of Alawi thought. This study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical method and a comparative-critical approach, and its information was gathered through library and documentary methods. The data were examined using qualitative content analysis and on the basis of six components: anthropological foundations, moral virtues, justice, leadership, the relationship between reason and religion, and the educational system and social structure. The findings show that both models emphasize moral virtue, justice, competent leadership, education, and human happiness. However, al-Farabi places greater emphasis on philosophical rationality, moral virtues, and the role of wise leadership in organizing the city, whereas in Imam Ali’s thought, monotheism, piety, human dignity, universal responsibility, the mutual rights of the people and the ruler, and the accountability of rulers occupy a prominent place. The results of the study indicate that the Alawi model, by linking moral principles to social and political responsibilities, offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the ideal society and evaluating the relations between governance and the people.