Mohammadzai (Pashto: محمد زی), also spelled "Moḥammadzay" (meaning sons of Mohammad in Pashto language) is a sub-tribe or clan of the Barakzai which is part of the Durrani confederacy of tribes. They are primarily centered on Kandahar, Kabul and Ghazni in Afghanistan. The Mohammadzai ruled Afghanistan from 1826 to 1973 when the monarchy ended under Mohammad Zahir Shah. Mohammadzai is also a name of Baloch tribe.
Mohammadzai are the most prominent and powerful branch of the Durrani confederacy, and are primarily centered on Kandahar. They can also be found in other provinces throughout Afghanistan as well as across the border in Pakistan.
Musahiban are the descendants of Sultan Mohammad Khan alao known as "Telai". Telai means Gold in Dari. He was the older brother of Dost Mohammed Khan. The Musahiban are closely related to King Amanullah.
Barakzai Mohammadzai's usually have the southern dialect of Pashto, however there are many Mohammadzai's who speak Dari as a first (or second language), especially those whom live around Persian speaking non-Pashtun Afghans.
From 1826 to 1978, most rulers of Afghanistan belonged to the two branches of one Barakzai dynasty descending from the chiefs of the Barakzai tribe (belonging to the Mohammadzai).