Malaysia remains Muslim’s top go-to destination globally, GMTI reports

Malaysia remains the number one Muslim-friendly travel destination among 10 OIC countries due to its dedication to providing accessible Halal-certified services and infrastructure.

According to the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share second place, as each offers a strong combination of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and an enhanced Muslim travel experience.

The GMTI 2025 highlights leading destinations around the world that are setting benchmarks in Muslim-friendly travel to catalyse change and shape tourism policies worldwide.

The list is followed by Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, supported by its rich cultural appeal, along with Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, and Iran.

Representing non-OIC destinations, Singapore topped the list, as recognized by the GMTI for its emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity.

Hong Kong received the Most Promising Muslim Friendly Destination of the Year Award, having improved its GMTI score by 10 points — the biggest jump among non-OIC destinations. (credit photo: TTRWeekly)

Among Southeast Asian countries in the list, the report stated that Thailand and Philippines are also steadily emerging as increasingly Muslim-friendly destinations in the region.

“Thailand offers warm hospitality and a growing range of Halal-certified services, while the Philippines is enhancing its capacity to serve Muslim travellers through better Halal food access and Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites.

“In addition, Hong Kong has emerged as a standout non-OIC destination too, ranking third in the GMTI 2025,” according to a report featured in TTR Weekly, a Singapore-based media portal.

The Asia's World City has initiated to provide a thorough Muslim-friendly travel experience by investing significantly in having 61 hotels accredited by CrescentRating as well as 153 restaurants Halal-certified by the Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong. 

Hong Kong also received the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year award as part of the Global Muslim Travel Index Awards.

Inspired by Islamic values of mindfulness and balance, many travellers are seeking tech-free escapes rooted in nature and spirituality. (credit photo: Malaysiakini)

According to the GMTI report, 176 million Muslim arrivals last year, marking an increase of about 25 percent compared to 2023, and projected the number to grow to 245 million by 2030

“By then, total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion (RM 977.6 billion), highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market.

“To stay competitive, travel and tourism stakeholders must adapt to the evolving needs of Muslim travellers, prioritising purpose, inclusivity, and digital innovation,” stated GMTI.

For record, GMTI has reached its 10th edition where it identifies the key trends and destination leaders shaping the future of Halal-friendly travel.

CrescentRating Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Fazal Bahardeen said, they are also celebrating an eleven-year journey of innovation with Mastercard in unison to GMTI’s 10th edition launch.

CrescentRating Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Fazal Bahardeen (credit photo: LinkedIn Fazal Bahardeen)

“Together with Mastercard, we remain committed to building a travel ecosystem rooted in understanding, inclusivity, and excellence, ensuring travel continues to bridge cultures and celebrate diversity,” said Fazal.

Mastercard Division President Southeast Asia, Safdar Khan said, tourism supports job creation, empowers local tourism businesses and advances national development agendas which allows it to become a powerful driver of economic growth in Southeast Asia.

“Mastercard remains committed to working with governments, tourism authorities, and industry partners to elevate travel through inclusive growth, digital innovation, and data-driven insights. 

“The 10th edition of the Mastercard-CrescentRating GMTI reflects a long-standing collaboration built on a shared purpose to help shape a more resilient, inclusive, and opportunity-rich travel ecosystem,” said Safdar.