Traveling in 2024 is expected to be strong in this post-pandemic era. You may be wondering, “Where should I travel to next?” Thankfully for us Muslim travelers, traveling is just getting a lot easier, with destinations increasingly trying to cater to or accommodate our religious needs so that we may all truly enjoy our time in these destinations.
These destinations are known to be safe and easy for Muslims to visit, with easy access to important things such as halal food and restaurants, mosques or prayer facilities, and muslim-friendly accommodations.
The countries mentioned are based on the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023, an annual report published by CrescentRating in collaboration with Mastercard that ranks countries based on their performance in the Muslim travel market.
Here are some of the top Muslim-friendly countries based on the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 report.
Looking forward to traveling this year? Discover the best destinations and places to travel while finding out your traveler type by visiting HalalTrip's Top Travel Picks of 2024 Microsite.
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Indonesia's rich tapestry of culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality makes it a top destination for Muslim travelers seeking an authentic Southeast Asian experience. As the world's largest Muslim-majority country, Indonesia offers a plethora of Halal dining options, prayer facilities, and Islamic landmarks that cater to the needs of Muslim visitors.
From the cultural hub of Yogyakarta to the tropical paradises of Bali and Lombok, Indonesia beckons with its diverse landscapes and attractions. Explore ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, relax on pristine beaches, or trek through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. Indulge in the country's flavorful cuisine, from spicy rendang to refreshing es cendol, and immerse yourself in local traditions and customs. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and Islamic heritage, Indonesia promises an enriching and memorable journey for Muslim travelers.
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Malaysia's melting pot of cultures, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for Muslim travelers. With Islam being the predominant religion in the country, Malaysia offers a plethora of Halal dining options, prayer facilities, and Islamic landmarks that cater to the needs of Muslim visitors.
From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a diverse range of experiences to indulge in. Explore historic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Malacca's Jonker Street, or immerse yourself in nature with a visit to Taman Negara National Park or the Cameron Highlands. Indulge in mouthwatering Malaysian dishes such as nasi lemak and satay, and discover the rich tapestry of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures that define the country's identity. With its warm hospitality and abundance of attractions, Malaysia promises an unforgettable journey for Muslim travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
As the birthplace of Islam and home to the two holiest cities, Makkah and Medina, Saudi Arabia holds immense significance for Muslims around the world. With millions of pilgrims visiting the Kingdom each year for Hajj and Umrah, Saudi Arabia ensures that its Muslim guests feel welcome and are accommodated with a wide range of services and facilities.
Embark on a spiritual journey with a visit to the Masjid Al Haram in Mecca, where Muslims perform the sacred rituals of Hajj and Umrah. Explore the historic sites of Medina, including the Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi and the Quba Mosque, or venture into the vast desert landscapes of Riyadh and the Rub'al Khali or the Empty Quarter. Experience traditional Saudi hospitality with a taste of local cuisine, including decadent desserts like kunafa. Whether seeking spiritual enlightenment or cultural exploration, Saudi Arabia offers a profound and transformative experience for Muslim travelers.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is renowned for its luxurious amenities, modern infrastructure, and diverse cultural offerings, making it a sought-after destination for Muslim travelers from around the globe. With a growing number of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities, and Islamic landmarks, the UAE ensures that Muslim visitors feel welcome and accommodated throughout their stay.
Discover the iconic skyline of Dubai, home to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and indulge in shopping at the Dubai Mall or exploring the vibrant souks of Deira. Experience the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or the historic Qasr Al Hosn. Unwind on the pristine beaches of Fujairah or embark on a desert safari adventure in Sharjah. Whether seeking luxury, adventure, or cultural immersion, the UAE offers a wealth of experiences for Muslim travelers to enjoy.
Türkiye's rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination for Muslim travelers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment. With a long-standing Islamic heritage and a wealth of Halal dining options, prayer facilities, and Islamic landmarks, Türkiye ensures that Muslim visitors feel right at home.
Explore the bustling streets of Istanbul, where East meets West, and discover iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Delve into the ancient ruins of Ephesus or Pamukkale, or embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. Indulge in the flavors of Turkish cuisine, from savory kebabs to sweet baklava, and immerse yourself in the vibrant bazaars and markets filled with traditional crafts and treasures. With its blend of history, culture, and hospitality, Türkiye promises an unforgettable journey for Muslim travelers seeking to explore its rich tapestry of experiences.
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A regular in the top rankings of the GMTI non-OIC destinations rankings, Singapore is a cosmopolitan melting pot of cultures and religions that has brought about a colorful mix of welcoming people. Furthermore, with Islam being one of the main religions in the country, it is a very easy destination to visit for Muslim travelers, with the number of mosques and Halal restaurants easily accessible in every corner of the country. With its unwavering appeal and unmatched prowess in catering to the needs of Muslim travelers, it is no wonder it is a popular destination among travelers.
Don't let the small size fool you; Singapore is filled with many attractions and things to do all within the span of this little red dot, where everything is almost a stone's throw away. Climb up the supertrees in the world-renowned Gardens by the Bay, visit the historic districts of Kampong Gelam, Chinatown, and Little India, or go on a shopping spree at Orchard Road; there's always something for everyone in Singapore.
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The United Kingdom prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive destination that is made up of people from different communities and backgrounds. Thanks to this, the United Kingdom has consistently maintained a place in the top three in the GMTI non-OIC ranking over the years. The constant increase in Halal restaurants, mosques or prayer facilities, and other establishments has paved the way for it to be one of the most attractive destinations to visit for Muslim travelers.
Spanning from skyscraper-laden cities like London to quaint and picturesque countryside, the United Kingdom is a popular destination for travelers to visit all year round. Visit the many castles in the country, like the Windsor Castle, or step back in time with the House of Parliament, the Big Ben and the Tower Bridge with its Gothic architecture. There are also natural wonders unique to the United Kingdom, like the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway. While you're there, learn and discover more about the exciting stories of the Muslim community there by dropping by the historic and iconic mosques in the country.
The rising star in the GMTI non-OIC rankings, Taiwan has been consistently climbing the ranking with their many efforts and initiatives to increasingly make the country Muslim-friendly. its allure for Muslim travelers is undeniable. Blessed with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and a warm hospitality, Taiwan offers a delightful experience for all visitors, including Muslims. With a growing number of mosques and Halal eateries dotting its cities, Taiwan ensures that Muslim travelers feel right at home.
Despite its compact size, Taiwan boasts an array of attractions that cater to various interests. Explore the bustling night markets of Taipei or marvel at the stunning Taroko Gorge. For nature lovers, there's no shortage of scenic beauty, from the lush Alishan Forest to the picturesque Sun Moon Lake. Taiwan's diverse offerings guarantee an unforgettable journey for Muslim travelers seeking adventure and cultural enrichment.
Thailand's vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, and stunning landscapes have made it a perennial favorite among travelers worldwide, including Muslim visitors. With a significant Muslim population, Thailand warmly welcomes its Islamic guests, providing ample Halal dining options, prayer facilities, and a friendly atmosphere throughout the country.
From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket, Thailand offers a plethora of experiences to indulge in. Embark on a culinary adventure at local markets, or unwind with a traditional Thai massage. For nature enthusiasts, the lush jungles of Chiang Mai and the pristine islands of Krabi beckon with their natural beauty. Thailand's blend of culture, hospitality, and natural wonders ensures a memorable journey for Muslim travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
As a dynamic metropolis where East meets West, Hong Kong offers a unique fusion of cultures and experiences for Muslim travelers. While predominantly known for its bustling cityscape and iconic skyline, Hong Kong also caters to the needs of its Muslim visitors with a growing number of Halal restaurants and prayer facilities across the city.
Discover the vibrant streets of Central and Mong Kok, indulge in a culinary journey through local street food stalls, or take in panoramic views from Victoria Peak. Delve into the city's rich history or explore the tranquil beauty of Lantau Island on the Ngong Ping 360. Whether shopping, dining, or sightseeing, Hong Kong promises an eclectic mix of experiences that cater to the diverse interests of Muslim travelers.
These are just some of the top Muslim-friendly destinations from the Global Muslim Travel Index 2023 report that we feel will make for a good destination of choice for your next holiday in 2024! Regardless of what type of traveler you are or what you look for in these destinations, these destinations will surely be a hit for your next vacation.
You can also see the other countries and the full ranking in our Global Muslim Travel Index here!
