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In this work, AZ91 magnesium alloy reinforced with a low fraction (0–1) wt.% tungsten disulfide(WS 2) microparticles have been fabricated using stir casting method. Effects of WS 2 microparticles on mechanical properties, microstructure, and their correlation have been analyzed. The microstructure of composites has been investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffractometer. Results indicate that density, hardness, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and tensile ductility have a direct relation with reinforcement (WS 2) contents and has optimal value for 0.6 wt% WS 2 /AZ91 composites then slightly decrease afterward. The UTS and hardness of 0.6 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 were increased by 23.23% and 10.65% respectively with respect to monolithic AZ91. The ultimate compressive strength(UCS) is directly related with WS 2 concentration and 10.07% enhancement in UCS for 1 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 composites have been noted. The trend is interlinked with density and hardness of composites. SEM images depict, WS 2 micro-particles suppress β-Mg 17 Al 12 precipitates, refine the microstructure and enhance the grain size resulting in an increase in mechanical properties. The improvement in microstructure and mechanical properties is attributed to the dispersion of WS 2 particles which hinder the grain growth. The increase in porosity has causes the decrease in mechanical behavior of 1 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. Twin boundary fracture has been found major fracture phenomenon in fractured WS 2 /AZ91 surfaces. • WS 2 /AZ91 metal matrix composites have been manufacture by stir casting method. • Density and porosity of WS 2 /AZ91 composites has been assessed. • Mechanical behavior under compression and tension has been analyzed. • Effect of WS 2 on microstructure has been investigated. • Fracture behavior of composites has been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]