This dataset contains the global fraction of lightning fires and burned area from lightning, and associated uncertainties, at 0.5 degree resolution. The dataset is representative for contemporary fire regimes (between 2001 and 2020). The dataset is based on a statistical model with three geospatial predictor variables: the seasonal correlation between lightning and burned area, the seasonal correlation between fire weather and burned area, and the fraction of low impact land. These variables are derivatives from remote sensing products. The statistical model was calibrated and validated with fire cause reference data from seven different parts of the world: USA including Alaska, Canada, Portugal, southern France, Yakutia (Russia), Victoria (Australia) and Tasmania (Australia). The statistical model explained 53 % of the variability in the reference data for the fraction of lightning fires, and 39 % for the burned area from lightning. All other relevant datasets from the study, processed to 0.5 degree resolution, are also provided. These include burned land, seasonal correlation between lightning and burned area, seasonal correlation between fire weather and burned area, low impact land, fire cause reference data, intact forests, fire-related forest loss, carbon combustion and future lightning projections.