Global Muslim Travel Index 2025 Insights
Global Muslim Travel Index 2025 Insights
th
Edition
2025
JUNE 2025
M A S T E R CA R D - C R E S C E N T R AT I N G | G LO B A L M U S L I M T R AV E L I N D E X 2 0 25
01
FOREWORD
01 Foreword.......................................................................................................................... 03
02 10 Editions of Impact................................................................................................... 07
03 Trends, Opportunities and Key Takeaways........................................................ 19
04 Embracing Neurodivergent Travelers................................................................... 29
05 Active Senior Travelers............................................................................................... 36
06 RIDA & SDG Alignment, RIDA Impact Score....................................................... 40
07 Muslim Demographics & Travel Market Economy........................................... 44
08 GMTI 2025 Overview................................................................................................... 53
09 GMTI 2025 Results....................................................................................................... 58
10 Muslim Women Friendly Destinations.................................................................. 78
11 Muslim-Friendly Accessible Destinations........................................................... 82
12 GMTI 2024 Results Tables........................................................................................ 86
13 Halal in Travel Awards................................................................................................. 92
14 Data Sources, Methodology & Acknowledgements....................................... 95
10 editions of insights and. 11 years of partnership. It is with immense pride of travel is upon us, and we need to find a path forward that benefits all
and a deep sense of gratitude that we welcome you to the 10th edition of the stakeholders, local communities, and the environment.
Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025. This is
Inclusivity has always been at the heart of our mission. This year, we
more than a report; it is a celebration of an eleven-year journey of conviction
deepen our commitment by expanding our Accessible Travel Framework
and collaboration with our partners at Mastercard. From our hopeful
(ATF) to champion the needs of neurodivergent travelers and active seniors,
beginnings in 2015, through the challenges that tested our resilience in
offering insights and practical pathways to create a welcoming environment
2020, to the innovations that now drive us forward, our mission has remained
for all.
steadfast: to foster a global travel environment built on understanding, trust,
and a shared commitment to excellence. Our methodology continues to evolve in pursuit of a more holistic
understanding of the travel experience. We have refined our ACES model
From a simple yet ambitious ranking of ten destinations in 2011 to a and enhanced the RIDA framework (Responsible, Immersive, Digital,
comprehensive analysis of 153 destinations today, the evolution of the Assured), introduced last year. Now, by aligning RIDA more closely with the
GMTI mirrors the very growth of the Halal travel sector itself. It has been a Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are proud to launch the RIDA
privilege to witness this journey. The GMTI is no longer just a benchmark; it Impact Score (RIS). This new metric will measure the real-world impact of
has become a catalyst for change. Its influence is woven into the very fabric of tourism providers, encouraging continuous improvement and empowering
tourism policies in both OIC and non-OIC nations, shaping the development travelers to make more conscious choices. This edition also features the
of everything from Halal dining to the availability of prayer spaces. We GMTI Thought Leadership Framework, a practical guide developed from
are humbled by its reach, extending from government halls to university over a decade of experience to help leaders establish lasting influence in
classrooms and boardrooms across the globe. the global travel space.
Fazal Bahardeen
The Muslim travel market is demonstrating a strong recovery, with an
Founder & CEO In recent years, it has been incredibly encouraging to see destinations,
estimated 176 million international visitors in 2024, a 10% increase over
CrescentRating both within and beyond the OIC, make significant strides in embracing the
pre-pandemic levels. Projections indicate that this market will grow to
HalalTrip Muslim travel market. This is a clear testament to the growing recognition of 245 million arrivals by 2030, with an estimated expenditure of USD 235
this vital travel segment. The remarkable progress of destinations like Hong billion. This growth is fueled by a young, digitally native generation whose
Kong, Taiwan, and the Philippines, driven by proactive government strategies, aspirations we must continue to listen to and understand.
showcases a genuine commitment to building inclusive and welcoming
tourism ecosystems. Marking this milestone is a moment for renewed commitment. Together
with Mastercard, we reaffirm our dedication to a future where travel is a
As we celebrate our tenth edition, we not only reflect on the transformative bridge between cultures, celebrating our diversity, fostering inclusivity, and
impact of the GMTI but also look ahead to chart a course toward 2030. This ensuring accessibility for all. We believe the GMTI 2025 is not just a guide,
journey presents unprecedented opportunities, but we must also navigate but a tool to empower you to seize the immense opportunities within the
the significant disruptions caused by geopolitics, as well as the rapid Halal tourism landscape. The journey ahead is exciting, and we are honored
advancement of artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics. The future to continue it with you.
I am delighted to be marking a decade of impact with the 10th edition of the Tourism remains a powerful engine for economic growth, catalyzing
Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). One thing job creation, strengthening communities, and unlocking opportunities
which is certain is that we are entering a transformative era for tourism – for micro, small and medium-sized businesses to flourish. At Mastercard,
one where purpose, innovation, and inclusivity converge to redefine the we are committed to empowering tourism authorities, destinations, and
future of travel. industry players to realise their ambitions through data-driven insights,
digital innovation, thoughtful leadership and inclusive partnerships.
Over the past 10 years, the evolution of traveler expectations, shaped
by digital disruption, socio-cultural shifts, and growing personal values, has By combining Mastercard’s global insights, innovation, and commitment
profoundly changed the landscape. For Muslim travelers, in particular, this to inclusive growth with CrescentRating’s deep understanding of Halal
transformation has unlocked new possibilities that extend well beyond the travel, we are helping destinations anticipate the future - and shape it.
conventional tourism experience. Together, we are setting new benchmarks and unlocking new value for
travelers, governments, and businesses alike.
At Mastercard, we see the digital influence across the full travel journey.
From biometrics and frictionless e-payments to smart devices and AI- As we celebrate the 10th edition of the GMTI, I would like to congratulate
powered itineraries, technology is enabling a hyper-personalized, seamless Fazal Bahardeen and his team on this significant milestone. We look
journey. HalalTrip and CrescentRating are at the forefront, empowering forward to building the next chapter – smarter, bolder, and more inclusive
Muslim travelers to plan, book, and experience destinations that align with than ever before.
both their lifestyle and values.
We are also witnessing a profound shift from sightseeing to soul-
Safdar Khan searching. The Mastercard Economics Institute’s 2025 Travel Trends report
Division President affirms a move toward authentic, meaningful experiences – whether
Southeast Asia immersive cultural encounters, culinary storytelling, or nature-based
Mastercard exploration. Today’s travelers are seeking more than a destination; they’re
seeking connection, identity, and purpose.
This year’s GMTI shines a light on a segment that has long been overlooked
– the neurodiverse traveler. Inclusive travel is not a fringe concept, it is a
strategic imperative. Designing experiences that are accessible to all, helps
us not only expand a market opportunity but also champion a richer, more
empathetic global travel culture.
•
•
Indonesia Muslim Brand Engagement 2025
Malaysia Muslim Brand Engagement 2025
Charting the Course: 11 Years of
•
•
Muslim-Friendly Cruise 2024
Muslim Gen Z Travel 2023
Mastercard & CrescentRating’s
CONSUMERS
• Muslim Women In Travel 2019 Muslim Travel Insights
• Digital Muslim Travel 2018
• Muslim Millennial Travel 2017
• Muslim Business Traveler 2016
Eleven Years of Collaboration, Ten Editions of Impact, and a Future of Continued Innovation
This 10th Edition of the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim The journey commenced in June 2014, with a landmark meeting A Legacy of Insight
Travel Index (GMTI) in 2025 marks a reflection on a transformative that laid the groundwork for a synergistic alliance. By October of and Growth –
journey spanning eleven years. This milestone is a testament to the that year, the Mastercard-CrescentRating partnership was formally
pioneering and enduring partnership between Mastercard and established, setting in motion a series of groundbreaking achievements
Building Towards
CrescentRating, a collaboration founded on a shared vision: to cultivate that would redefine industry standards and unlock new potential for the Next Decade
clarity, build unwavering trust, and inspire unparalleled excellence Muslim travelers worldwide. This foundation remains as strong as ever
within the global Halal tourism ecosystem. as the partnership looks to the future.
July 2015 – Kuala Lumpur: The Genesis of GMTI. The unveiling of the first-ever GMTI
marked a historic moment, establishing a crucial benchmark for the travel industry and
signaling a new era of focus on the Muslim travel market.
2016 to 2019 – Jakarta: Expanding Influence: Hosted in Jakarta, these editions saw
the GMTI’s global influence burgeon, becoming an indispensable tool for governments,
tourism boards, and travel providers seeking to understand and cater to this dynamic
segment.
2020 – Resilience Amidst Disruption: In a year of unprecedented global challenges,
Mastercard & CrescentRating’s commitment to the industry remained steadfast. While
publication was momentarily paused, the dedication to research and support for the
sector continued unabated, strengthening the resolve for the years ahead.
2021 Onwards – Singapore: Innovating for the Future. From its new hub in Singapore,
the GMTI reemerged with renewed vigor, continuously evolving its methodologies and
insights to navigate the changing landscape of global travel, a testament to its adaptive
and forward-looking approach.
Fazal Bahardeen Safdar Khan Matthew Driver
CEO, Division President, Executive Vice President,
CrescentRating & HalalTrip Southeast Asia, Mastercard Services, Asia Pacific, Mastercard
The Global Muslim Travel Index traces its origins back to 2011 as the Since establishing its core framework, the GMTI has demonstrated continuous evolution. The ACES
CrescentRating Annual Ranking, which began by assessing the top 10 Muslim- framework itself underwent refinements (ACES 2.0 in 2018 and ACES 3.0 in 2021), while the index
friendly destinations. This foundational work quickly expanded, with the expanded its coverage to 140 destinations by 2021. More significantly, the GMTI has consistently
number of ranked destinations growing significantly by 2014, leading to the broadened its thematic scope, integrating vital aspects like the Halal Travel Development Goals
launch of the GMTI in 2015, covering 100 destinations. A pivotal development (2019), sustainability metrics (2022), the strategic GMTI Performance Matrix (GPM) in 2023, and
was the introduction of the comprehensive ACES (Access, Communications, new frameworks like RIDA (Responsible, Immersive, Digital, Assured) and accessibility in 2024. This
Environment, Services) framework in 2017, which established a robust progression continues with its 2025 focus on enhancing the travel experience for neurodivergent
methodology for evaluating and understanding the multifaceted needs of travelers, showcasing GMTI’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive and comprehensively
Muslim travelers worldwide. understood global Muslim travel landscape.
145 153
140 138 138 Destinations Destinations
130 Destinations Destinations Destinations
Destinations
100
60
50 Destinations
Mastercard-CrescentRating Mastercard-CrescentRating
Destinations
Global Muslim Travel Index Global Muslim Travel Index
20 (GMTI) (GMTI)
10 Destinations
Destinations CRaHFT
Ranking
CrescentRating
Annual Ranking
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
The first ever Renamed as the The launch of Introduction ACES Introduction of ACES Addition of Introduction Introduction Introducing RIDA
ranking was CrescentRating the Mastercard- of the ACES framework the Halal Travel framework Sustainability of GPM of RIDA & Impact Score
launched by Halal Friendly Travel CrescentRating Global framework updated Development updated to the ACES Accessible Travel and spotlighting
CrescentRating Ranking. Muslim Travel Index (ACES 1.0) (ACES 2.0) Goals (ACES 3.0) framework Frameworks Neurodivergent
travelers
The Frameworks & Future Vision: Powering the Next Decade of Muslim-Friendly Travel
The ACES Framework: The Bedrock of Muslim- Responsible Tourism practices, cultivating
Immersive Experiences, accelerating
Friendly Travel Standards – Evolving for Tomorrow Digital Transformation, and delivering
Central to the GMTI’s enduring success and widespread Assured Services. RIDA underscores the
adoption is the ACES Framework, introduced in commitment to ensuring that travel
2017. Continuously refined, ACES – evaluating Access, continues to enrich, empower, and • Visa requirements
Communication, Environment, and Services – has become connect people globally in a sustainable • Connectivity
the trusted global standard for assessing and developing and meaningful way, setting the stage for • Transport Infrastructure
Muslim-friendly travel offerings, ensuring destinations the innovations of the next decade.
are well-equipped to provide seamless and welcoming
experiences. This framework will continue to evolve to ACCESS
meet the needs of future travelers. An Ongoing Partnership Driving • Prayer places
SERVICES
Global Impact – Towards the Next Ten • Halal Dining
The ACES framework’s strength lies in its ability to provide GMTI
COMMUNICATIONS
• Muslim-Friendly Airports
a holistic yet actionable structure. It deconstructs the Editions
concept of “Muslim-friendliness” into distinct, measurable, Eleven years of visionary efforts,
• Muslim-Friendly Hotels ACES • Destination Marketing
GMTI 2015 GMTI 2016 GMTI 2017 GMTI 2018 GMTI 2019 GMTI 2021 GMTI 2022 GMTI 2023 GMTI 2024 GMTI 2025
Spurring development of Halal food options, prayer facilities, Influencing policy in OIC and non-OIC nations to cater to
and Muslim-friendly accommodations. Muslim tourists.
Shaping Destination Marketing: Guiding more effective and targeted Policy in Action: Driving specific initiatives in
promotional strategies for Muslim travelers. destinations like Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong,
Taiwan, the Philippines, and Thailand.
ys l Tr g
Driving Tourism Infrastructure Investment: Encouraging investment
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os a in
In ver oli
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te av
Go &
Ec lob form
flu nm cy
in physical and service infrastructure for the Muslim market. Catalyst for Government Action: GMTI rankings
en e
prompt investment and development to improve
e ns
cin nt
Enhancing Halal Assurance Standards: Fostering the adoption and
th Tra
P
appeal to Muslim travelers.
g s
improvement of Halal certifications and standards.
G
M AST E RCARD
CRE S CE N T RAT I N G
Driving Product & Service Innovation: Guiding development 2025 Analyzing Destination Image & Offerings:
se mi g
Gu sin tio
of tailored offerings like Halal menus and Muslim-friendly hotel Informing research on how Muslim-friendly
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ar a &
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Ap
amenities. attributes influence tourist perceptions.
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in s
ch
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Facilitating Data Dissemination: Leveraging CrescentRating’s Fostering Critical Perspectives: Stimulating
I
expertise and Mastercard’s reach for impactful data utilization. academic discussion on GMTI methodology, scope,
and limitations.
1. Launch of the 1. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) 1. Thailand opened its first 1. Makkah Route Initiative 1. Indonesia’s Masterplan
Global Muslim launched the first Halal Restaurant Week Halal hotel - Al Meroz streamlines the Ekonomi Syariah
Travel Index Korea, to provide Muslim visitors with Hotel to help boost Hajj pilgrimage for Indonesia (MEKSI)
(GMTI) - the first access to Korean cuisines. Muslim arrivals. worshipers allowing includes development
comprehensive 2. The Philippines introduced the Halal Export them to focus fully in Halal tourism to
ranking of Development and Promotion Program Act on performing their support development in
Muslim- to support the growth of Halal industries religious duties upon the industry.
destinations. arrival in Saudi Arabia.
1. Salaam Taiwan campaign 1. Taiwan External Trade 1. The Philippines’ Department 1. GCC plan to introduce a 1. Hong Kong launches Muslim-Friendly
launched to promote Development Council (TAITRA) of Tourism introduced the Schengen-style, unified visa tourism initiative with CrescentRating.
Taiwan’s Muslim-friendly launched its first Halal Taiwan Colors of Mindanao campaign for tourists and businessmen. 2. Vietnam established Halal
facilities and services to Week, a virtual event aimed with one of its goal to 2. Japan National Tourism Certification Authority (HALCERT) to
attract Muslim travelers. at promoting Taiwanese Halal highlight faith tourism and Organization (JNTO) provide Halal certification services.
products and showcasing embrace diversity. launched Muslim friendly 3. Cambodia hosted its first Muslim-
Taiwan’s Muslim-friendly 2. Resorts World Cruises featured projects to accommodate Friendly Tourism Forum and to
environment to international the first ever Halal-certified Halal food and prayer spaces. develop Halal tourism, sustainability
businesses. restaurant within its cruise. initiatives, and tourism infrastructure.
Global Leaders Speak: Shaping the Future of Muslim Travel with GMTI
“The scope of Islamic tourism “Uzbekistan has confidently taken “South Africa is rapidly becoming
is wide, covering Muslim- its place in the global Muslim a key player in the Muslim travel
friendly products and services, tourism market. Being a young market, consistently ranked
hospitality and accommodation developing tourist destination, among the top 10 destinations
but venturing into this is still at Uzbekistan has a lot to offer globally in the Mastercard
an early stage, hence the need to both adventure seekers and CrescentRating Global Muslim
expose the entrepreneurs to the knowledge hunters,” Travel Index. We are committed
new business opportunities.” to working with our partners to
Indonesia has ranked first as “Maldives is working towards
the world’s best Halal tourism
Aziz Abdukhakimov integrating Muslim-friendly
further grow Halal tourism to its
Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri destination in the GMTI. This is
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of
tourism in a very strong way
full potential through innovation,
Minister of Arts, Tourism, and Culture Tourism and Cultural Heritage, Republic of inclusivity, and expanding our
Malaysia (2020 - 2022) an opportunity and potential Uzbekistan (2021 - 2022) as part of our national tourism offerings”
for the Halal industry to grow strategy, and I’m very positive
exponentially, because the that in the coming days, Maldives
global Muslim population keeps will gain its popularity as one
Patricia de Lille
Minister of Tourism, Republic of South Africa
increasing. of the top Muslim-friendly (2023 - present)
destinations in the world.”
Sandiaga Uno
Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Dr. Abdulla Mausoom
Indonesia (2020 - 2024) Minister of Tourism
Maldives (2020 - 2023)
*These quotes from leading voices have been primarily drawn from their impactful speeches delivered at the annual Halal In Travel Global Summits over the years.
Global Leaders Speak: Shaping the Future of Muslim Travel with GMTI
“In the Global Muslim Travel Index “With clear policies, we hope “We will keep improving our
Report, Uzbekistan rose from the to make Hong Kong a Muslim- understanding of Muslim culture
32nd place in 2017 to the 9th friendly destination. We want and educating the Spanish
place in 2022. Our ancient and everyone that comes to Hong tourism industry to better meet
magical city of Khiva has been Kong to feel appreciated and the needs and expectations
chosen as the Islamic Heritage respected.” of Muslim visitors. Spain is
Destination of the Year among committed to not only meeting
the 140 destinations in 2023.
“Philippines being recognized
John Lee KC “Singapore realizes the long
religious requirements, but also
It’s a very high international Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special to designing experiences that
recognition for every citizen as an Emerging Muslim-Friendly Administrative Region (2022 - present) term value and opportunity of fulfill their dreams.”
of Uzbekistan. This award is destination serves as a testament the growing Muslim travelers
to the dedication of our travel segment. Since the inception of
considered a positive result of the
industry in catering to the unique the GMTI, Singapore has been
Miguel Sanz
reforms that is being carried out Director General of Tourspain
in tourism under the leadership of needs and preferences of Muslim consistently ranked as a top (2020 - present)
our president.” travelers.” Muslim-friendly destination
amongst other non-OIC
H.E. Ozodbek Nazarbekov Myra Paz Valderossa- destinations. We will continue
striving to maintain top position
Minister of Culture of Uzbekistan Abubakar while ensuring that Singapore
(2020 - present) Undersecretary for the Department of
Tourism, The Philippines (2021 - present) continues to welcome all travelers.”
Keith Tan
Chif Executive of
Singapore Tourism Board (2018 - 2023)
*These insights from leading voices have been primarily drawn from their impactful speeches delivered at the annual Halal In Travel Global Summits over the years.
**The perspective shared by John Lee KC, is based on a recent video released by his office.
The GMTI stands as a powerful testament to creating a reference point that is both insightful and authoritative, shaping global discourse
and driving change worldwide. Its story offers lessons and provides a blueprint for anyone aspiring to develop thought leadership that not
only enlightens but also endures. Here are 10 lessons from the GMTI’s journey of impact.
Lesson 1: Identifying and Championing a Distinct, Underserved Segment. Lesson 6: Embracing a Global Perspective and Foster Inclusivity
In 2008, CrescentRating recognized the burgeoning Muslim travel sector as a distinct market with unique From its early days, the GMTI aimed for a global perspective, covering both Muslim-majority (OIC) and non-Muslim-
needs largely unaddressed by mainstream tourism analytics. The GMTI (initially as CrescentRating Annual majority (non-OIC) destinations. Its expansion to 153 destinations underscores its commitment to providing a
Ranking) was born out of this specific focus, providing a dedicated lens on what makes a destination Muslim- comprehensive worldwide view, making it relevant to a diverse range of stakeholders.
friendly.
Lesson 7: Forging Strategic Alliances for Credibility, Expertise, and Reach
Lesson 2: Developing a Transparent, Rigorous, and Evolving Methodology The game-changing partnership between Mastercard & CrescentRating in 2015 catapulted GMTI onto the global
The GMTI’s strength lies in its structured ACES framework, which evaluates destinations across clearly defined stage. CrescentRating brought deep domain expertise and an established reputation in Halal travel; Mastercard
criteria. This methodology is transparent, allowing stakeholders to understand how scores are derived. brought global brand credibility, extensive market reach, and resources.
Crucially, it’s not static; it has evolved to include new metrics (Sustainability, Accessible Travel, etc..) reflecting
the maturation of Muslim traveler needs. Lesson 8: Committing to Consistency and Building a Rhythm of Expectation
The annual release of the GMTI report has become an anticipated event in the travel industry. This regularity allows
Lesson 3: Anchoring the Reference in Compelling Data and Insights for tracking progress, identifying emerging trends over time, and reinforcing its role as the go-to source for insights
The GMTI provides concrete numbers: rankings for 153 destinations, market size, expenditure, and trend on the Muslim travel market.
percentages. This quantification shifts the conversation from anecdotes to an evidence-based discussion..
Lesson 9: Staying Agile and Responsive to the Ever-Changing Market Pulse
Lesson 4: Delivering Actionable Value that Solves Real-World Problems The Muslim travel market is not static, and neither is the GMTI. It has adapted to reflect the growing importance of
The GMTI reports are not just academic exercises. They provide actionable insights that help tourism boards sustainability, the digital transformation of travel, the impact of global events such as COVID-19 (e.g., tracking market
develop strategies, hotels refine their services, and investors identify opportunities. The inclusion of tools like recovery, introducing Halal Travel Development Goals), and the specific needs of different traveler sub-segments.
the GMTI Performance Matrix (GPM) further aids strategic decision-making.
Lesson 10: Cultivating an Ecosystem that Reinforces Authority
Lesson 5: Amplifying the Voice Through Strategic Communication The GMTI is a cornerstone of CrescentRatings’ wider offerings, which include accreditation services, training
The impact of GMTI is magnified by its widespread dissemination. CrescentRating and Mastercard actively programs (CR Academy), research and consultancy, publications, and high-profile industry events such as the Halal
promote the report through media outreach, make it easily downloadable, present findings at key industry in Travel Global Summit. This ecosystem creates a virtuous cycle, where each component reinforces the authority
events, and see its data cited in numerous academic papers. and visibility of the others, including the GMTI.
The GMTI Thought Leadership Framework draws inspiration from the success of the Global Muslim Travel Index and the 10 key
lessons outlined in this report into a practical three-stage framework designed to help thought leaders develop their authoritative
and enduring reference points.
Stage 1: FOUNDATION – Establishing Credibility and Core Value THE GMTI THOUGHT LEADERSHIP FRAMEWORK.
This initial stage is about laying the critical groundwork. Even the most ambitious
thought leadership initiatives will falter without a strong foundation. STAGE STAGE STAGE
• Identify and Champion a Distinct, Underserved Segment
• Develop a Transparent, Rigorous, and Evolving Methodology 01FOUNDATION 02 AMPLIFICATION 03ENDURANCE
• Anchor the Reference in Compelling Data and Insights 1. Niche & Purpose 4. Actionable Value 8. Consistency
2. Methodology 5. Communication 9. Agility
Stage 2: AMPLIFICATION – Expanding Reach and Impact 3. Data Authority 6. Global Perspective 10. Ecosystem
With a solid foundation, the next stage focuses on building out references, ensuring they 7. Partnerships
deliver value, and strategically disseminating it to reach the target audience and beyond.
• Deliver Actionable Value that Solves Real-World Problems
• Amplify the Voice Through Strategic Communication
By systematically addressing the pillars within these three stages of this framework, you can
• Embrace a Global Perspective and Foster Inclusivity
significantly increase the possibility of developing a thought leadership reference that not
• Forge Strategic Alliances for Credibility, Expertise, and Reach only gains recognition but also achieves lasting global impact. This framework provides a
structured approach to transform insightful ideas into influential resources that can guide
Stage 3: ENDURANCE – Sustaining Relevance and Growth industries and shape future discourse.
Creating a successful reference is not a one-time event. This final stage focuses on
maintaining momentum, adapting to change, and building a lasting legacy.
• Commit to Consistency and Build a Rhythm of Expectation
• Stay Agile and Responsive to the Ever-Changing Market Pulse
• Cultivate an Ecosystem that Reinforces Authority
This year, the report delves deeper into evolving traveler needs, enhance the evaluation
frameworks, and introduce new tools to empower the global travel ecosystem. RIDA & SDG Alignment and RIDA Impact Score Refined ACES Metrics
Building upon its introduction in GMTI 2024, the To better address the essential needs of
RIDA framework (Responsible, Immersive, Digital, Muslim travelers, the ACES model introduces
Assured) remains central to guiding the evolution of additional metrics assessing foundational
10 Years of GMTI utilities. These metrics include Internet
Muslim travel, with this year’s edition deepening its
Celebrating a milestone, this edition marks the 10th GMTI publication, Penetration to ensure seamless digital
alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals
reflecting on an eleven-year transformative partnership between Mastercard connectivity, Basic Sanitation quality for
(SDGs). The newly introduced RIDA Impact Score (RIS)
and CrescentRating. It highlights the significant global impact GMTI has improved hygiene and health, reliable Basic
serves as a practical benchmarking tool, measuring
had in shaping the Muslim-friendly travel sector. It captures pivotal industry Drinking Water sources, and frequency of
tourism providers’ effectiveness in integrating RIDA
advancements, and “10 Lessons Learned,” showcasing insights into the Power Losses to evaluate the consistency
principles. This facilitates continuous improvement
index’s sustained growth and influence. Additionally, the report explores of essential services. These enhancements
within the tourism industry and empowers travelers
the “Ripple Effect of the Global Muslim Travel Index,” underscoring its role provide a more comprehensive evaluation
with more informed, value-aligned choices,
in inspiring change across governments, academia, businesses, and the of destinations, promoting comfort and
advocating for metrics beyond traditional tourism
broader global travel ecosystem. reliability.
indicators like visitor arrivals.
Elevating Accessible Travel: Spotlight on Neurodiversity and Active Seniors The GMTI Thought Leadership
Reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity, GMTI 2025 expands the for accessible facilities, offering recommendations for an
Framework
Accessible Travel Framework (ATF). This year, it places a dedicated empathetic travel industry approach. This edition showcases the GMTI Thought
spotlight on neurodivergent travelers, recognizing their diverse Leadership Framework, inspired by GMTI’s
needs—particularly concerning sensory sensitivities and anxiety in To further champion accessible travel, this edition introduces established success. Structured as a practical,
unfamiliar environments, and guiding destinations towards fostering the “Muslim-Friendly Accessible Travel Destination” sub-index. three-stage guide derived from the report’s
inclusive, culturally considerate, and faith-aligned accessibility. This new initiative emphasizes the essential need for travel insights, the framework outlines essential
environments that cater to the unique requirements of diverse strategies for industry leaders seeking to
A new dedicated section also focuses on Active Senior Travelers, a travelers, including those who are physically challenged, develop authoritative, sustainable, and
significant and growing high-value market segment comprising one- neurodivergent, active seniors, and multi-generational family impactful positions within the global travel
third of travelers in 2024. It details their preferences and crucial needs groups. landscape.
New Level of Growth Increased Demand for Muslim-Friendly A New Competitive Landscape
The global Muslim travel market has entered a dynamic new Ratings and Halal Assurance A standout trend in this year’s findings is the consistent and
growth phase, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. An estimated The growing Muslim travel market is prompting strategic rise of non-OIC destinations in their appeal to Muslim
176 million international Muslim visitors in 2024, marking a more destinations to seek Muslim-friendly travelers. Countries like Singapore, the United Kingdom, Hong
25% increase from 2023 and a 10% increase over 2019 levels. assurance for their tourism offerings, including Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Ireland, Australia, and Spain are no longer
Projections for 2025 estimate 186 million arrivals, with long- restaurants, hotels, and attractions. Destinations just niche players but have become formidable contenders, steadily
term forecasts reaching 245 million arrivals by 2030 and an are actively incorporating Halal certification into climbing the rankings. This growing competitiveness from non-
estimated expenditure of USD 235 billion. their strategies to accommodate Halal food dining. OIC destinations signals a fundamental shift in the global Muslim
travel landscape. The inherent advantages of OIC nations, such
as cultural and religious familiarity, are now being challenged by
a commitment to service excellence and strategic infrastructure
Growing Presence of the GCC within the Enhanced Understanding of Muslim- development from their non-OIC counterparts. This proves that the
core principles of Muslim-friendly hospitality can be successfully
Top Rankings Friendly Travel implemented in any cultural context.
Continuous progress toward tourism visions has This year’s GMTI has observed a significant
resulted in significantly improved scores and improvement in scores across most
competitive positioning for the GCC destinations destinations, indicating increased awareness
in the GMTI. Driven by national strategies such of the potential of the Muslim travel market Key Trends Shaping the Future of Travel
as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s and the need for accommodations tailored A key takeaway is the significant evolution of the modern Muslim traveler’s profile
diversification efforts, these destinations are to this market. The integration of crucial and purpose. There is a clear shift towards more independent and conscious journeys,
investing heavily in infrastructure, hospitality, Muslim-friendly facilities and services has led evidenced by the rise of solo and female travelers seeking empowerment, safety,
and cultural experiences that align with traveler to improved ratings in the four areas of ACES and autonomy. Alongside this, travel motivations are diversifying beyond leisure to
expectations. Digital innovations, simplified (Access, Communications, Environment, and include purpose-led experiences such as regenerative tourism that restores local
visa processes, and targeted marketing have Services) and an overall increase in scores. ecosystems, digital detox retreats that align with faith values of mindfulness, and
further enhanced their competitiveness, This growing alignment between destination sports tourism adapted for family and faith needs. This signals a demand for more
leading to GCC destinations such as Saudi offerings and Muslim traveler expectations personalized, inclusive, and meaningful travel experiences that cater to a broader
Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar climbing higher in aims to ensure comfort, elevate experiences, range of abilities and interests, prompting destinations to offer more than just
the rankings. and drive long-term growth. standard holiday packages.
Global Trends Shaping the Muslim Travel Market: Responsible and Immersive Dimensions
The Mastercard-CrescentRating Halal Travel Trends 2025 report, published in April 2025, explores the key trends that will shape the Halal travel landscape
in 2025. Highlighting trends within the dimensions of the RIDA (Responsible, Immersion, Digital, Assurance) framework, the report provides an overview of
the evolving travel environment. Responsible tourism emphasizes the conservation of the natural environment and the well-being of local communities,
while immersive experiences offer new perspectives and opportunities for travelers to become more engaged.
Regenerative Tourism Sustainable Mobility Digital Detox Retreat Sport Tourism Solo Travel
Transforms travel by The shift to sustainable Provides the space for The growing trend of people Preferences are changing; there
encouraging activities urban mobility has become individuals to temporarily traveling for sports creates a is a rise on solo travelers these
that restore and enhance a necessity due to the need disconnect from electronic major opportunity. To attract past years who want freedom,
ecosystems, local communities, of reducing global CO2 devices, enabling the valuable and expanding autonomy, and independence
and wildlife. This trend emissions. Cities prioritizing rejuvenation, self-reflection, Muslim travel market, during their trip. This trend is
goes beyond sustainability, eco-friendly, cost-effective and a reevaluation of their destinations must adapt. This particularly prominent among
empowering travelers to transport are leading the way relationship with technology. means ensuring all major younger generations, with
leave destinations healthier in combating climate change Participants engage in a brief sporting events and active Millennials and Gen Z leading
and more vibrant than they and achieving environmental but focused disconnection, lifestyle options are designed the movement. Highlighting
found them. By promoting goals, paving the way for a reducing stress and fully to be inclusive, considering the safe neighborhoods,
regenerative tourism, more efficient and sustainable immersing themselves in the faith-based and family-oriented hospitality with local Muslim
destinations can provide urban future. By linking physical world. Destinations needs of Muslim tourists. families, and women-friendly
purpose-led experiences sustainable mobility to core can attract Muslim travelers by accommodations helps
that resonate with the faith traditions, destinations can offering unplugged wellness reassure travelers and supports
evolving traveler, positioning not only reduce their ecological retreats that align with faith a sense of empowerment.
themselves as both ethical and footprint but also offer Muslim values of mindfulness, balance,
faith-conscious tourism leaders. travelers a way to practice their and spiritual renewal.
faith during their journey.
Global Trends Shaping the Muslim Travel Market: Digital and Assured Dimension
Trends within the digital aspect show how advancements in technology are enhancing travel experiences, making them more seamless and integrated.
Focus on the trends within the assured dimension is essential for travelers to feel comfortable and safe. This focus on assurance sets high service standards
and establishes trust among travelers.
Humanoid Robotics Smart Apps for Accessible Tourism The Modern Female Traveler
Halal Journeys
Accelerated by the COVID-19 Aims to create inclusive Females play a significant role in travel
pandemic due to safety and Streamlines the process of tourism experiences planning, especially when traveling
health concerns, the use of obtaining information and catering to the needs of as families. Recently, there has been a
robots and/or humanoids enhances the journey by travelers with disabilities, notable rise in female-only group travel
streamlines operations offering various services. The seniors, and families and solo female journeys. To cater to
while adding a novel touch. integration of technology with young children. The this growing trend, destinations globally
Equipped with artificial makes travel planning less importance of this approach have increasingly adopted women-
intelligence, robotic services of a hassle, makes practicing lies in its potential to friendly amenities and services. It is
can perform a range of faith easier on the go, and expand market reach while essential for destinations to provide
tasks, from basic mechanical opens opportunities for new committing to inclusiveness, safe, comfortable, and women-friendly
functions to more complex experiences, such as VR for quality service, and safety. environments, ensuring travelers’ peace Download Report
interactions. Faith-related travel. Apps offer not only By combining inclusive of mind. Initiatives aimed at this segment
awareness needs to be efficient information retrieval, design with faith-specific also complement efforts towards inclusive
integrated into their programs, but also shift the way Muslim needs, destinations can travel for Muslim travelers, creating
making them more inclusive tourists engage with their create a welcoming overlapping opportunities to serve diverse
and adaptive. journeys. environment for all. traveler needs effectively.
26%
particularly in relation to faith-aligned values and Malaysian
and Halal compliance. The report also outlines
prime category for
consumers loyalty programs
how brands can better connect with Muslim
audiences through culturally relevant and
ethically conscious practices.
of consumers in
Most consumers MALAYSIA discover
90%
emphasize that cultural
alignment, ethical brands through
practices, product interactive and
quality, and transparency engaging social media
90% of consumers prioritize are essential for building
brands that align with faith- platforms such as
trusts. TikTok and Instagram.
based values and principles.
40% 66%
Consistency in Consumers frequently
quality, Halal
assurance, and switch brands for Download Report
competitive pricing better QUALITY and of Malaysian
drive consumer of consumers in INDONESIA LOWER consumers belong
discover brands through social to brand loyalty
loyalty, scoring the PRICES. programs, with 70%
highest in terms of media, with TikTok and Instagram
leading in engagement. rating them highly
importance. effective.
Journey Towards 2030 – Dynamics of Sustained Growth & Evolving Traveler Aspirations
As we chart the course towards 2030, the global Muslim travel market is set for a period of dynamic evolution. The next five years will see this segment
further solidify its position as a significant force in global tourism, driven by compelling demographic shifts and the increasingly sophisticated, values-
driven aspirations of Muslim travelers worldwide. It promises to reshape Muslim-friendly travel, embedding holistic experiences, authentic connections,
and reliable assurance ever more deeply into its fabric.
Projecting Demographic & Economic Momentum Towards The journey towards 2030 will also see a greater realization of truly inclusive travel. The industry will make
significant strides in catering to travelers with diverse needs, including those with disabilities, seniors, families,
2030 and individuals with neurodivergent conditions. Technology and thoughtful service design will increasingly
The growth trajectory of the Muslim travel market leading up to 2030 remove barriers, making seamless and confident travel a reality for more Muslim travelers.
is exceptionally strong. With the global Muslim population already
at an estimated 2.19 billion in 2025 and on a clear path towards 2.54 The Evolving Traveler: Deepening Desires, Faith-Consciousness & the Enduring Quest for Value on the
billion by 2035, the demographic engine will continue to power Path to 2030
significant market expansion throughout this decade. International The Muslim traveler will become even more discerning, connected, and motivated by a blend of authentic
Muslim traveler arrivals approaching 245 million by 2030, serving as experiences, intrinsic values, and faith principles. This will result in:
key milestones on this upward journey.
• Diversifying Experiences: The appetite for a rich spectrum of travel beyond traditional journeys will continue
Looking towards 2030, this will translate into the continued maturation to grow. Adventure, eco-tourism, cultural immersion, educational pursuits, solo travel, and multi-generational
of the large Gen Z and Millennial cohorts into their prime travel and family holidays will become increasingly prominent. The influence of the Modern Female Traveler will also
spending years, alongside the growing, experienced segments of expand significantly.
middle-aged (21-50) and mature (51+) travelers.
• Strengthening Faith-Consciousness: The commitment to faith principles as a core driver of travel decisions is
The RIDA Paradigm, will shape the future of the Muslim travel ecosystem, expected to deepen. This will fuel even greater demand for destinations that provide and champion genuinely
making it more holistic, ethical, and rewarding. Sustainability and Muslim-friendly environments, encompassing not just the essentials like Halal food and prayer facilities but
ethical practices will gain prominence.. Immersive travel will flourish as also broader cultural sensitivities and ethical considerations.
travelers seek authentic cultural interactions, heritage discovery, and
transformative learning. Technological advancements, particularly • Value-Driven Authenticity: While economic landscapes may fluctuate, the quest for value will remain
AI, will enhance personalization, efficiency, and trust in faith-specific paramount. By 2030, this will increasingly mean seeking authentic, enriching experiences that offer a clear
digital planning,. Finally, assured experiences, including Halal integrity, return on investment in terms of personal growth, connection, and alignment with values, rather than simply
quality amenities, safety, and respectful, welcoming environments, the lowest cost.
will remain critical expectations.
Key Areas for Destinations and Businesses to Stay Engaged with the Muslim Travel Market
1. Genuine Develop a deep, nuanced Continuously analyze Mastercard-CrescentRating reports for macro trends & benchmarking. Supplement GMTI with localized
Understanding & comprehension of the diverse Muslim research on specific source markets, traveler segments & evolving psychographics/values. Understand the “why” behind
Insight travel market. travel choices beyond basic demographics.
2. Integrated Create a seamless and Access: Ensure easy physical (visa, connectivity) & digital (booking platforms) access; develop accessible infrastructure.
Ecosystem Readiness comprehensively Muslim-friendly Communications: Implement authentic, targeted marketing; provide multilingual resources; train staff in cultural sensitivity;
destination/business environment. leverage digital channels effectively.
Environment (Responsible): Cultivate a safe, welcoming, culturally respectful environment; implement sustainable & ethical
tourism practices.
Services (Assured & Immersive): Provide core faith-based needs with high assurance; develop immersive cultural, heritage
& nature experiences.
Digital Integration: Utilize technology to enhance all traveler touchpoints.
3. Meaningful Build genuine connections and Move beyond generic “Muslim-friendly” branding to tell compelling stories resonating with diverse Muslim values. Engage
Engagement & communicate value beyond generic with Muslim communities and influencers to co-create authentic local narratives and ensure respectful representation.
Authentic Storytelling offerings. Highlight local Islamic heritage, culture, and experiences, not just standardized amenities.
4. Collaborative Foster a supportive ecosystem Promote strong collaboration among government, tourism boards, private sector, and local communities. Invest in training
Partnerships & through joint efforts and skill & capacity building for industry stakeholders (especially MSMEs) on Halal assurance, Muslim traveler needs, & service
Capacity Building development. excellence.
5. Dynamic Maintain relevance and Establish mechanisms for continuous monitoring of traveler satisfaction & market trends (e.g., MTIT insights).Regularly review
Adaptation & competitiveness through ongoing & adapt strategies based on GMTI performance, competitor actions, & evolving consumer preferences. Embrace innovation in
Continuous learning and innovation. product development & service delivery.
Improvement
View GMTI as part of an ongoing journey of improvement, not an annual endpoint.
Travel is a deeply human experience, one that allows people to connect with new places, cultures, and
communities. Yet for individuals with disabilities, including neurodivergent travelers, the journey often
comes with a set of challenges. people worldwide
experience significant
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1.3 billion people worldwide experience
significant disabilities, including cognitive, mobility, visual, and hearing impairments. A 2022 study by Billion disabilities (WHO)
MMGY Global showed that travelers with mobility disabilities alone contributed $58.2 billion annually.
68%
These figures suggest that people with disabilities are actively participating in travel, although they often
still face access limitations. of families
Almost half traveling
Neurodivergent individuals are those whose brain development or processing differs from typical patterns,
encompassing autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia, ADHD, and other similar conditions. According to Deloitte
Insights (2022), 10-20% of the global population is considered neurodivergent, representing a significant
49%
of neurodivergent
with neurodiverse children find
online photos of specific rooms
very or extremely important when
demographic with diverse sensory, communication, and cognitive needs, yet their specific travel needs individuals have choosing their lodging. (MMGY)
often remain under-addressed across various travel touchpoints. encountered a negative
Traveling for neurodivergent individuals can involve challenges such as sensory sensitivities, anxiety in
unfamiliar environments, or difficulties with communication and disruptions to routine. A study (MMGY &
TripAdvisor) on families with neurodiverse children revealed that 75% were concerned about crowds, 64%
experience while traveling
([Link])
60%
of families are willing to pay more
prioritized accommodations tailored to specific sensory needs, and many identified cost as a major barrier. for travel options that welcome or
Despite these hurdles, families with children who have neurodevelopmental disabilities (in the USA) took an are more accessible to neurodiverse
average of 2.1 trips last year and spent over $4,200 on travel, according to Tripadvisor, underscoring both the travelers. (TripAdvisor)
strong desire and substantial investment this group makes in travel experiences.
Notably, neurodivergent individuals also bring unique strengths to the travel experience, including creativity,
innovative problem-solving, attention to detail, and resilience. When properly supported, these strengths
can enhance not only their own journeys but also contribute to a richer, more inclusive travel culture.
10-20% of the global
population is considered
46%
of families traveling with neurodiverse
As awareness grows, the tourism industry has an opportunity and responsibility, to implement inclusive children prefer to make plans and
neurodivergent
practices that support neurodivergent travelers at every stage of their journey. purchase decisions with the aid of an
(Deloitte Insights (2022) online travel agency. (MMGY)
The Accessible Travel Framework (ATF), published in the GMTI 2024, aims to provide a easy to Neurodivergent travelers often face unique challenges related to travel environments, such
adopt framework enabling the development of accessible services. The ATF covers different as overwhelming sensory stimuli, rigid scheduling needs, and communication barriers. This
layers within travel, from the foundational principles to the stages of travel, and ensures that year’s GMTI spotlights the feasibility of the ATF framework for non-physical disabilities and
they meet the specific cultural and faith requirements of Muslim travelers. The framework also tackles the challenges of inclusive tourism. All four layers within the ATF aim to make travel
takes into account general accessibility needs to ensure all travelers can enjoy a comfortable accessible to everyone, including neurodivergent individuals.
and hassle-free travel experience.
IMPLEMENTATION
FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES TRIP
Ensuring inclusivity for neurodivergent travelers
E- depends on the strategic alignment of staff
The aspects of inclusivity promotes and PR STAFF TRA
ININ
G capabilities, community engagement, and
embraces diverse profiles as part of the broader
IT Y governing policies within the travel ecosystem.
L
accessibility effort. Universal design boasts
ESSIBI SE This can be achieved through comprehensive
facilities that are intuitive and accommodates CC
ON
awareness training programs for personnel, the direct
VERSAL DES
NCE
UNI
everyone with different capabilities.
THE
LA
RV
I involvement of neurodivergent community members
ICE
ICA
ATION COMPLIA
TRIP
in planning and feedback processes, and adherence to
GN
PHYS
ACCE
established inclusive regulatory frameworks
ATF
SITIVITY
SSIBILITY
INCLUSI
ACCESSIBILITY COMPONENTS
COMM
N
EGUL
TRAVEL STAGES
VI
S
TY
When planning physical spaces, services, and
Y
AL
T
R
U
To support neurodivergent travelers, at
I
CULTU
N
technological interfaces, it is essential to consider
&
BI
ITY
SI each step of their travel (pre-trip, during
IC Y
TEC
the needs of neurodivergent individuals. ES
EN
HNOLOGICAL ACC
OL
the trip, and post-trip) it is important to
GA
Structured environments, staff who are well-trained,
P GEM
provide clear information and signage, allow
knowledgeable, effective in communication, and
ENT
flexibility in plans (offering options to opt-
intuitive, user-friendly technologies can significantly
out of overwhelming itineraries), and create
reduce anxiety and sensory overload, ensuring a POST TRIP platforms for feedback.
more comfortable and inclusive travel experience.
Fara also advocates for designated seating areas for families traveling with neurodivergent
Madam Fara’s Inspiring Journey individuals, as these zones can reduce exposure to overstimulation and offer a private space during
Fara, founder of MIJ Hub, understands this journey firsthand. Her son, now 25 years old, was difficult moments, minimizing the need for families to justify behaviors to other passengers. Beyond
diagnosed with Autism and Tuberous Sclerosis as a child. From the moment of his diagnosis, physical accommodations, Fara underscores the vital role of trained and empathetic airline staff.
he became not only her source of inspiration but also her teacher. Fara immersed herself She points to discreet identification systems like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol, which
in learning about neurodivergence, navigating a continuous cycle of trial, adaptation, and can subtly alert staff that a traveler may need extra support. For such initiatives to be truly effective,
consultation with professionals to meet her son’s evolving needs through different life airlines must invest in comprehensive staff training, ensure consistent implementation, and raise
stages. public awareness to foster a more inclusive and respectful travel experience for all.
Early Experiences and the Anxiety of Airports Choosing Calm and Inclusive Destinations
In the early years, when awareness of neurodivergence was limited, traveling with her son Beyond the airport and aircraft, Fara continues to travel with her family by choosing nature-based
was especially difficult. Airports, in particular, were a major source of stress. Long queues, destinations over commercial spaces. Her son finds serenity in open environments and becomes
unpredictable announcements, and unfamiliar procedures often triggered anxiety and overwhelmed in large, noisy crowds. In her view, every inclusive destination should offer quiet
meltdowns. To prepare him, Fara would start weeks in advance, breaking down airport zones or decompression spaces to meet the sensory needs of all guests.
processes into simple steps using visual aids and social stories to build familiarity and reduce
fear or anxiety.
Advice from Madam Fara: Embrace the World, Advocate, and Never Give Up
Over time, improvements in airport services have made a noticeable difference. Fara Through all these experiences, Fara never stopped exposing her son to the world. Her approach
acknowledges that a small number of airports today offer sensory guides, quiet rooms, and is grounded in perseverance, not perfection. “Start small. Don’t give up. And never stop exposing
staff trained in supporting neurodivergent travelers. However, she notes that such efforts your child to the world,” she advises. “Travel is an opportunity to learn and explore. When faced with
remain limited and inconsistent across the industry. More widespread adoption of inclusive challenges or misunderstanding, be an advocate for your child.”
practices is needed to ensure that all families can travel with dignity and ease.
Travel Stages
Supporting neurodivergent travelers involves addressing
their needs at every stage of the journey. At pre-travel
planning, travelers can use tools like the 9292 Journey
Planner to create predictable, stress-free routes, reducing
The Netherlands has made significant efforts to support uncertainty and potential anxiety. When they arrive at the
neurodivergent travelers through national legislation, station/airport there are services like NS Travel Assistance
ensuring that every individual can access public spaces providing hands-on support for boarding, disembarking,
and transportation with ease. and transfers, while the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
lanyard at Schiphol Airport discreetly signals a need
Foundational Principles for extra assistance. The public transport vehicles are
The Equal Treatment (Disabled and Chronically Ill People) equipped with features like clear audio announcements,
Act (Wet gelijke behandeling op grond van handicap visual displays, and designated spaces for mobility
of chronische ziekte) prohibits discrimination against requirements, while buses, trams, and airport facilities like aids, ensuring a comfortable and independent travel
individuals with disabilities, including those who are Schiphol International Airport have integrated features experience. For post-travel support, the Netherlands’
neurodivergent, and mandates that public services, to reduce sensory overload and enhance comfort for continuous improvement mechanisms allow travelers to
including transportation, must provide reasonable neurodivergent travelers share feedback, contributing to ongoing enhancements in
accommodations to ensure equal access for all. It covers public transport and airport services.
a wide range of provisions, from physical infrastructure
adjustments to service modifications, creating a foundation Implementation
for inclusive travel. Effective implementation of these laws relies on
comprehensive staff training and partnerships with
advocacy groups. For example, NS (Dutch Railways)
Accessibility Components provides the ‘TreinTrainPakket,’ a training program
To align with the legislative principle, the Netherlands developed with input from individuals with intellectual
has invested in accessible public transport systems and disabilities to support independent train travel.
supportive infrastructure. The 9292 Journey Planner and Collaborations with organizations like the Flying with
GVB Virtual Stop Assistant are prime examples that offer Autism Foundation further ensure that neurodivergent
tailored route planning based on individual accessibility travelers receive personalized assistance, from check-in
needs. Train stations across the country also have been to boarding, fostering a supportive and inclusive travel
upgraded to accommodate a wide range of mobility environment.
Senior travelers, defined as those aged 60 and above, are a significant segment
SENIOR TRAVEL
Global Population of 50 Years and Older
of the tourism industry – accounting for one-third of travelers in 2024. For many
in this demographic, travel serves not just as recreation, but as a meaningful 2,500 30%
is valued at
The global demographic shift underscores the long-term potential of this 1000 of the global
market. Between 2020 and 2025, the global population aged 50 and older 10%
travel market
increased by more than 160 million, rising from 1.77 billion to 1.93 billion, 500
and is expected to exceed 2.36 billion by 2035, accounting for nearly 28% 0% 0%
of the global population. A significant portion of this growth is seen among
Projected value
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2035
those aged 51 to 70, who remain active, financially secure, and eager for
to reach $2.63
travel that prioritizes leisure, wellness, and self-fulfillment. Within the Muslim Year
population, a similar demographic shift is unfolding: the number of Muslims
aged 50 and above grew from 297 million in 2020 to over 347 million in 2025,
and is projected to reach 474 million by 2035, reflecting a steady rise in aging Muslim Population of 50 Years and Older
trillion by 2030
Muslim travelers. These shifts signal rising demand for inclusive, age-friendly,
and culturally attuned travel experiences, especially among global and Muslim 500 25%
50%
amounting to 15% of the global travel market value, and projected to reach 200 10%
$2.62 trillion by 2030. Past their working age, more seniors are seeking leisurely
activities and travel, allocating more than 50% of their discretionary spending 100 5%
annually. With the flexibility of travel off-season and the tendency to embark of their spending
0% 0%
on longer, more relaxed journeys, they offer high-value opportunities for travel on leisure and travel
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
2035
industry stakeholders aiming to tap into a resilient and expanding market.
Year
The findings indicate that more than 70% of seniors preferred travel, and a significant portion allocates their budget toward To better cater to senior travelers, the travel industry must
trips lasting 4-6 days, a comfortable time range for them to accommodation and dining, which indicates a desire for a adopt a more empathetic and inclusive approach. This includes
enjoy their surroundings. The motivation behind their trips relaxed experience over extravagance or high activity levels. offering options of simplified tech alternatives, more visible and
is usually to spend time with family or friends and relax, Payment methods of cash and card are preferred, with a few human-centric support services, and marketing that represents
with around 20% also mentioning business or work-related choosing digital payments, underlining a critical gap in current peaceful, slow-paced, and family-oriented experiences. By
purposes. These motivations reflect the tendency of the travel technology design. The digital-heavy nature of modern aligning services with the real-world needs of senior travelers,
majority of senior travelers to travel with a family member, travel, from mobile check-ins to app-based bookings, can the sector can foster greater inclusivity and unlock long-term
mainly their spouse. present barriers to many seniors. growth opportunities.
During their travels, shopping is the most popular activity
among senior travelers, with 67% of respondents indicating Traveller Expectations for Necessary Facilities
Types of Activities Engaged in During Travel
it as a preferred travel experience. This is followed closely
by culinary activities and nature or outdoor exploration, Shopping
each 56%, highlighting a strong interest in local cuisine and
Elevator
natural settings. However, enjoying these activities at an Nature & Access
Outdoor
older age comes with its challenges. For many seniors, health
Ramps and
and mobility concerns are among the top priorities. Chronic Culinary
Railings
20 %
40 %
60 %
80%
0%
20 %
40 %
60 %
80%
to the study, 67% of senior travelers prefer comfortable
Enhance Accessibility Across Different Modes of Transport Assist in Bridging the Digital Gap
Airports and airlines could increase accessibility by offering To better support older travelers, many of
services such as wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, clearly whom may still prefer traditional methods
readable signage, and senior-friendly check-in counters. Quiet over digitalized ones, travel companies can
rooms, sensory paths, and specialized assistance programs have offer simplified platforms for communication,
proven to be helpful to create a more inclusive environment, such as live customer support, and printable
as seen in airports like Heathrow and Changi. Cruise lines, documents for boarding passes and itineraries.
a popular choice among older travelers, may also consider Equally important is on-the-ground support,
adapting their ships with accessible cabins, roll-in showers, grab including staffed information counters, in-
rails throughout the vessel, and onboard medical staff. These person tour guides, and analogue booking
improvements would not only address physical needs but also options, all of which can help seniors travel
help provide greater peace of mind during travel. with greater confidence and reduced stress.
The RIDA framework offers a compelling alignment with the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (UN SDGs). By embedding principles of sustainability, ethical practice,
ENVIR
NT
ONME
and technological advancement into its core, RIDA has the potential to significantly propel the
GEME
ENGA RAL
CULTU
N
NTAL
GE TIO
I TA RVA achievement of these global objectives within the tourism industry.
CU
SO URA R E
HE RES
LT
CIO L
- P
SO
ECONOMCIO- UNIT Y
COMM AC TION
At the heart of this synergy is RIDA’s Responsible dimension. This pillar directly champions
ICS
RIDA IN T E R
environmental, economic, and social sustainability, resonating with numerous SDGs. It encourages
Y
QUALITCE
AN
TECHN
INTEG OLOGIC AL
RATIO
tourism practices that conserve the environment (supporting SDGs 13, 14, and 15 on climate
ASSUR N
action, life below water, and life on land), respect and support local cultures and communities
ND
Y A IT Y DI CLU
GI S (aligning with SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities), and contribute positively to local
IN
F ET CUR TA IV
SA SE L IT Y
economies through fair trade and ethical consumption (connecting to SDG 8 on decent work
EFFIC
E
LIANC
IENC Y
and economic growth and SDG 12 on responsible consumption and production). The emphasis
CO M P
on social justice and ethical behavior within this dimension further underpins goals like SDG 16
(peace, justice, and strong institutions).
GOOD HEALTH AND QUALITY DECENT WORK INDUSTRY,
WELL-BEING EDUCATION AND ECONOMIC INNOVATION AND The Immersive dimension of RIDA, which fosters meaningful connections with local cultures,
GROWTH INFRASTRUCTURE
heritage, and communities, also contributes to the SDGs. By encouraging experiences that go
beyond superficial tourism, it promotes cultural understanding and preservation, indirectly
supporting SDG 11 and potentially SDG 4 (quality education) through experiential learning and
appreciation of diversity.
REDUCED SUSTAINABLE RESPONSIBLE CLIMATE
INEQUALITIES CITIES AND CONSUMPTION ACTION
COMMUNITIES AND PRODUCTION RIDA’s Digital pillar, focused on leveraging technological innovation, aligns with SDGs centered
on innovation and infrastructure, such as SDG 9. By promoting digital tools for accessibility,
convenience, and personalized travel experiences, this dimension can also contribute to SDG 10
(reduced inequalities) by making travel more accessible to a wider range of people.
LIEF ON PEACE, JUSTICE LIFE BELOW
LAND AND STRONG
INSTITUTIONS
WATER Finally, the Assured dimension, while primarily focused on service reliability and meeting faith-
based needs, indirectly supports broader SDG principles. Ensuring safety, quality, and cultural
sensitivity builds trust and fosters stable, respectful interactions within the tourism ecosystem,
contributing to an environment conducive to sustainable development.
The RIDA Impact Score (RIS): Driving Excellence in Muslim-Friendly Tourism Services
While the RIDA framework provides a clear and essential roadmap for developing modern, value-aligned travel offerings, a critical
I MPAC T SCO question remains for any organization: How effectively are we actually embracing these principles?
DA R A framework, by itself, is a set of ideals. To drive real-world improvement and ensure consistent quality, there must be a way to
measure its application. This is precisely why the RIDA Impact Score (RIS) was developed.
RI
E
The RIS is a quantitative measurement tool required to translate the RIDA philosophy from a conceptual model into an actionable
strategy. Its necessity is rooted in four key objectives:
To Provide Tangible Measurement: The RIS moves beyond subjective assessments. It assigns a concrete score to a service,
9/10 facility, or experience, quantifying how well it integrates the four dimensions of Responsible, Immersive, Digital, and Assured
travel. This provides a clear, data-backed understanding of performance.
To Enable Strategic Implementation: By scoring each of the four dimensions independently, the RIS allows organizations to
pinpoint specific areas of strength and weakness. For instance, a hotel might score highly on the ‘Assured’ dimension due to
excellent Halal food provision but score poorly on the ‘Immersive’ dimension because it lacks authentic local experiences. This
by targeted insight allows for focused and efficient resource allocation to areas needing the most improvement.
Cre n g
s c e n t R ati
To Facilitate Benchmarking and Continuous Growth: You cannot improve what you cannot measure. The RIS creates a
standardized benchmark, allowing a destination or business to compare its performance against competitors, track its own
progress over time, and set clear, achievable goals for future enhancement.
To Ensure Accountability and Consistency: The score provides a clear metric for accountability. It ensures that the principles of
the RIDA framework are not just marketing buzzwords but are consistently and meaningfully applied across every touchpoint of
the traveler’s journey, from booking to the in-destination experience.
In essence, the RIDA Impact Score (RIS) is the vital mechanism that operationalizes the RIDA framework. It is required because it
provides the clarity, data, and insight necessary for stakeholders to not only adopt the framework but to excel in its application,
ultimately delivering superior, more competitive, and truly resonant travel experiences.
The assessment for the “Responsible” The assessment for the “Immersive” The assessment for the “Digital” dimension The assessment for the “Assured”
dimension evaluates how deeply a dimension focuses on how effectively a evaluates the strategic use of modern dimension is centered on building traveler
service or facility is committed to travel experience connects visitors with technology to create a seamless and confidence through quality assurance,
holistic sustainability. It will examines the local culture and community. It will enhanced traveler experience. It examines safety, and compliance. A primary focus
the tangible socio-economic evaluate the quality and availability of the practical integration of digital tools of this evaluation is guaranteeing that
benefits delivered to the community. interactive activities that allow travelers across the journey, focusing on key faith-based requirements are reliably
Furthermore, it will measures to engage with, rather than just observe, areas such as the accessibility and user- met. This approach ensures that every
the dedication to socio-cultural the local heritage. This includes assessing friendliness of websites, the ease of access traveler’s well-being is cared for, from the
preservation by assessing how local offerings that promote hands-on learning, to crucial information, and the availability of implementation of health and emergency
heritage and traditions are actively heritage discovery, and direct community diverse digital payment options. The goal is protocols to the provision of faith-centric
protected and celebrated within the interaction, which together build a deeper to measure how technology is leveraged to amenities.
tourism experience. knowledge and appreciation for cultural make travel processes more convenient and
diversity. efficient for everyone. To achieve this, the assessment delves
This evaluation will also scrutinizes deeply into the integrity of faith-based
environmental stewardship through The ultimate aim of this evaluation is to By auditing technological integration, services. It will evaluate the provision
a review of concrete policies for measure how well an experience fosters the assessment encourages the tourism Halal food, ensuring its authenticity from
waste management, resource understanding, tolerance, and respect industry to adopt tools that not only source to serving. It will also scrutinizes
conservation, and sustainability between travelers and local communities. streamline operations but also promote the accessibility, cleanliness, and proper
education. By analyzing these three By examining the methods of cultural digital inclusivity. This includes evaluating equipping of prayer facilities, as well as the
key pillars, economic, cultural, and promotion and the opportunities for accessibility features for users with different availability of water-friendly washrooms.
environmental, the assessment meaningful engagement, the assessment needs and assessing the robustness of By verifying that these essential needs
will provides a clear score of how determines how effectively the offering digital infrastructure for payments and are not just present but are delivered
effectively an entity creates mutually contributes to creating environments of information sharing. Ultimately, this with high quality and consistency, this
beneficial tourism and aligns its learning and exploration. This directly dimension gauges how well an entity dimension directly removes significant
operations with the core principles of aligns with UN SDGs 4 (Quality Education), uses technology to advance its services, travel barriers, championing the inclusive
UN SDGs 8, 11, and 12. with a specific focus on promoting global directly contributing to the innovation and values of UN SDGs 3 and 10.
citizenship as outlined in Target 4.7. infrastructure goals of UN SDG 9.
9% 11%
Population above 60 years 2.5% 3.3%
21% 22%
Population between 40 & 60 years 5.5% 6.4%
70% 67%
Population under 40 years 18.7% 19%
2.19 Billion 2.54 Billion
Population 26.6% 28.6%
2025 2035
Muslim Population Muslim Population
The number of Muslims is expected to rise from 2.19 billion in 2025 to 2.54 billion in 2035. Muslims represent
50% of the growth in the world’s population during 2025-2035. Its proportion of the world’s population is 2025 2035
likewise anticipated to increase. Muslims are expected to account for 28.6% in 2035. The biggest Muslim
demographic is still those under 40. However, this group is predicted to decline from 70% in 2025 to 67% in
2035. There is a slight increase in the number of Muslims in the older age groups, specifically those aged 40
Percentage of the
and above. In 2025, Muslims under 40 make up 18.7% of the world’s population, and by 2035, that percentage
is expected to rise to 19%.
Global Population
Age Dynamics: Analyzing Trends in the Muslim and Rest of World Populations
Population by Age Group (2025)
In 2025, the Muslim demographic shows its largest segments This highlights the continued importance of developing 11- 20
in the younger age groups, particularly 0-10, 11-20, and 21- travel experiences that appeal to younger demographics 21- 30
30, indicating a significantly younger population compared within a Muslim-friendly framework. 31- 40
Age Group
to the global average. The global population shows a more Increase in Working-Age Travelers: Substantial growth 41- 50
spread distribution across middle-age groups (up to 60), in the Muslim population within the 21-50 age range by 51- 60
with larger proportions than the Muslim population in older 2035 points to a growing segment of economically active 61- 70
categories. and independent travelers. This group is likely to seek a 71- 80
Looking at the projected changes between 2025 and 2035, wider variety of travel experiences, including leisure trips, 81- 90
the Muslim population is expected to see increases across business travel, and potentially more adventurous or 91- 100
most age groups. Notably, there will be substantial growth specialized forms of tourism. 0 500 1000
in the middle age groups (21-30, 31-40, 41-50), which are Rising Demand from Older Travelers: The significant
Population (in Million)
prime demographics for economic activity and travel. projected increase in older Muslim age groups (51+) will
Furthermore, the Muslim population is projected to also create greater demand for travel products and services Increase / Decrease of Population by Age Group (2025 to 2035)
experience significant percentage increases in the older that prioritize comfort, accessibility, health considerations,
age brackets (51-60, 61-70, 71-80, and above). and slower-paced itineraries. Spiritual and cultural tourism, 0- 10
The global population from 2025 to 2035 is projected to including Hajj, Umrah, and visits to historical Islamic sites, 11- 20
see a decrease in the youngest age group (0-10), with will remain important and need services tailored to older 21- 30
significant increases concentrated in the older age groups pilgrims and tourists. 31- 40
Age Group
(61 and above). This indicates a clear global demographic Evolving Muslim-Friendly Offerings: To effectively
41- 50
shift towards an older population, which will influence capture this growing and diversifying Muslim travel
51- 60
various sectors. market, the industry must continue to expand and refine
61- 70
Implications for the Travel Industry of travelers across different age groups necessitates an 81- 90
approach that caters to the specific needs of the three 91- 100+
Young Market Drivers: The large base of young Muslims in groups alike. -50 0 100 150
2025 signifies a dynamic future market. As these individuals Population (in Million)
transition into young adulthood and middle age by 2035,
Muslim Population Rest of the World Population
The Muslim Travel Market: Surging Past Recovery into a New Era of Growth
The global Muslim travel market is demonstrating exceptional Key Catalysts Driving Market Growth:
dynamism, having decisively moved beyond post-pandemic
recovery into a phase of growth. The year 2024 has been pivotal, Growing Demand for Halal-Conscious Travel: There is an increasing global trend towards Muslim-friendly and Halal
establishing a new high-water mark for the sector and underscoring assurance for a wide array of tourism services, including restaurants, hotels, and attractions. This development is
its increasing importance in the international tourism landscape. notable even in non-Muslim majority destinations, significantly broadening the range of appealing destinations for
Muslim travelers.
2024: Landmark Achievement and Full Market Resurgence
International Muslim arrivals in 2024 reached a remarkable 176 Technological Innovation Enhancing Travel Experiences: Advancements in technology are making travel more
million. This figure not only signifies a complete recovery but also accessible and personalized. Specifically, of Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered travel planning is playing a key role in
a significant advancement for the market, representing a 10% helping Muslim travelers find and customize itineraries that align with their unique needs, values, and preferences.
increase over pre-pandemic levels (2019) and an impressive 25%
growth from 2023. This milestone firmly establishes 2024 as the 200
year the Muslim travel sector overcame previous disruptions and
embarked on a strong growth trajectory, setting a new baseline for
future development. 150
Arrivals (million)
The strong performance of 2024 is paving the way for continued
positive momentum. Projections for 2025 indicate that Muslim
100
245 million
international arrivals will continue to rise to 186 million. Looking arrivals
ahead, the market’s upward trend is expected to be sustained, with
long-term forecasts estimating 245 million arrivals by 2030. This
50 USD 235
substantial increase is anticipated to be accompanied by a traveler
Billion
expenditure reaching USD 235 billion in the same year, highlighting
the sector’s growing economic influence.
0
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
2030
Year
Africa Africa
Americas Americas
Region
Region
Asia Asia
Europe Europe
Oceania Oceania
All five regions recorded an increase in total tourist arrivals compared to 2023. Asia cultural and natural attractions, and growing outbound travel from within the region
experienced the most significant growth, adding over 154 million new arrivals, itself, especially from China, India, and Southeast Asia.
followed by moderate increases in the Americas and Europe. Oceania demonstrated
the highest relative growth at 43%, although it remained the smallest region in Muslim inbound travel also revealed distinct regional dynamics. Asia remained the
terms of absolute numbers. Europe retained its position as the top destination for leading destination, drawing nearly 120 million Muslim visitors, supported by the
total arrivals, accounting for nearly half of all global travel in 2023, but its growth was region’s proximity to large Muslim populations, strong Halal tourism infrastructure,
limited to 3.5%. and growing awareness of the Muslim travel market. The presence of OIC destinations
such as Malaysia, Indonesia, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, naturally positions Asia as
The analysis shows that global tourist arrivals by region are still led by Europe, with the primary destination. At the same time, non-OIC destinations like Singapore,
over 600 million visitors, followed closely by Asia with over 500 million. Together, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand have made significant strides in catering to Muslim
these two regions account for the bulk of global tourism. Both continue to lead due needs. Europe followed with over 40 million Muslim arrivals. Africa’s total of over 15
to their strong destination marketing and well-established global appeal. Europe million Muslim tourists is driven by the region’s religious heritage sites and growing
is home to many of the world’s most iconic landmarks, cultural heritage sites, and investment in faith-based tourism. In contrast, the Americas and Oceania regions
historical cities, supported by consistent branding and extensive infrastructure. received smaller shares of Muslim travelers, highlighting opportunities for these
Meanwhile, Asia’s continued rise in tourism is driven by a mix of affordability, rich regions to enhance their Muslim-friendly services and visibility.
The percentage share of global arrivals to OIC destinations has gradually increased Arrivals to OIC Destinations Non-OIC Members OIC Members
from 15% in 2020 to 18% in 2024, a positive trend indicating the growing
competitiveness and appeal of OIC tourism offerings. OIC destinations witnessed 200
a steady increase in arrivals from both member and non-member states, reaching
over 250 million total arrivals, a 9% increase from 2023. The incline has been 150
outside the bloc has remained consistent. A decline in arrivals from member-to-
member travel in the past year suggests that there is room for improvement in 50
strengthening intra-OIC connectivity and cooperation in tourism facilitation.
In 2024, arrivals to non-OIC destinations reached 1.15 billion, four times higher 0
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
than OIC destinations. The gaps between the arrival compositions to OIC and Year
non-OIC destinations are not only due to volume, but also the disparity of tourism
development. While non-OIC destinations attract significantly more visitors,
the relatively low numbers to OIC destinations suggest untapped potential and
highlight the need for strategic efforts to put them on the global radar. Tourism Arrivals to Non-OIC Destinations Non-OIC Members OIC Members
0
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Year
CrescentRating launched the Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT) in 2023 to monitor the travel Changes in MTTT Score
intentions of Muslim tourists over time. The travel intent is evaluated monthly through surveys 82
82.1 81.8
of Muslim consumers. The insights gathered allow companies and destinations to stay updated
on current trends, anticipate future needs, and identify opportunities for growth in the Muslim 79.9
80
tourism industry. An algorithm calculates the MTIT score, which indicates the urgency of future 79.0
MTIT Score
travel intentions across different time periods. 78.0
78.3
78 78.5
78.0
Winter 2024 (January–March): Travel intent began the year at 76.1 in January but declined 74.1
slightly to 75.6 in February and dropped again to 74.1 in March. This downward trend aligned 74
Jan 2024 Mar 2024 May 2024 Jul 2024 Sep 2024 Nov 2024
with post-holiday financial caution, adverse winter weather, and the onset of Ramadan
Year
in March. The start of the year reflected a shift in priorities toward community support and
spiritual preparation for Ramadan.
Spring 2024 (April–June): Travel interest climbed steadily, with April peaking at 79.0, buoyed
by Eid Al-Fitr travel and improved weather. By June, the score softened slightly to 78.0,
impacted by the Hajj pilgrimage and families waiting for school holidays to begin. The period
still maintained strong travel sentiment due to seasonal and faith-related factors.
Summer 2024 (July–September): This season witnessed the strongest travel intent of the
year. July recorded a score of 78.8, followed by a year-high of 82.1 in August, fueled by summer
vacations and favorable conditions. Although September dipped to 78.5, the score remained
robust, with many travelers taking advantage of late-summer and early-autumn opportunities.
Autumn to Year-End 2024 (October–December): The score rebounded to 79.9 in October,
benefiting from off-peak travel incentives and cultural activities. November saw a slight decline
to 78.3, reflecting a transitional pause before the holiday rush. Finally, December closed the
year strong at 81.8, driven by year-end holidays, family reunions, and Umrah travel which
making it the second highest monthly score of 2024.
SERVICES
planning and navigation. • Halal Dining (10%)
(40%)
GMTI
COMMUNICATIONS
Environment: The overall environment and setting of the destination. • Muslim-friendly Airports (10%)
Services: The range of services provided by the destination to cater to the needs of Muslim
• Muslim-friendly Hotels (5%) ACES • Destination Marketing (5%)
(15%)
travelers.
• Heritage & Experiences (5%) Framework • Communication Proficiency (5%)
• Stakeholder Awareness (5%)
Each of these four key areas is assessed using quantitative measurements across several criteria, and each
criterion score is derived using several sub-criteria. More than 50 data sets are used to compile the GMTI ENVIRONMENT
scores based on the ACES 3.0 model. (30%)
Framework Evolution: Since 2017, the criteria and sub-criteria have evolved to keep pace with the • General Safety (10%)
development of the Muslim travel market, taking into account overall trends in the travel and lifestyle • Faith Restrictions (5%)
space. This year’s model enhancement builds on last year’s initiatives by destinations to drive sustainable • Sustainability (5%)
tourism. • Accessible travel (5%)
• Visitor Arrivals (2.5%)
New Metrics: This year’s model introduces refined metrics to evaluate the fundamental utilities essential • Basic Utilities (2.5%)
for travelers. Specifically, it assesses Internet Penetration to ensure seamless connectivity, the quality of
Basic Sanitation for hygiene and health, access to reliable Basic Drinking Water sources, and the frequency
of Power Losses to guarantee consistent essential services, ultimately aiming to ensure a comfortable and
well-supported environment for travelers throughout their journey.
Access Communication
The Access criteria evaluate the accessibility of a destination from the top 30 The Communication criteria assess a destination’s ability to communicate with and market to
Muslim travel outbound markets. This includes: Muslim travelers. This includes:
Environment Services
The Environment pillar evaluates a destination’s overall conditions and appeal for Muslim travelers. The Services criteria assess the range and quality of services available to Muslim
This includes: travelers. This includes:
The Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025 reveals continued progress in catering to Muslim travelers, GMTI 2025 Change GMTI 2025 Change
with a notable rise in average destination [Link] improvement underscores the growing commitment Destination
Rank VS 2024 Score VS 2024
of destinations worldwide to provide Muslim-friendly travel experiences. 1 0 Malaysia 79 +3
Malaysia retains its top position with a score of 79, an increase of 3 points from 2024, reaffirming its leadership 2 +2 Türkiye 78 +5
through its persistent efforts in providing accessible facilities tailored to Muslim travelers. Türkiye, Saudi 2 +1 Saudi Arabia 78 +4
Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates now share the second spot, each achieving a score of 78. Saudi
2 +3 United Arab 78 +6
Arabia continues to benefit from its religious tourism offerings due to Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, while Emirates (UAE)
Türkiye benefitted from its rich cultural heritage that appeals to Muslim tourists.
5 -4 Indonesia 76 0
On the other hand, Indonesia’s drop of four 5 +1 Qatar 76 +5
places in the GMTI 2025 ranking, while 7 +1 Oman 74 +8
maintaining its score, suggests that relative
7 +5 Kuwait 74 +9
improvements in other destinations have
surpassed its pace. Jordan and Singapore 9 -1 Jordan 73 +7
also achieved lower ranks, despite an 9 -2 Iran 73 +6
increase in their scores. Brunei experiences 11 -3 Singapore 71 +5
the sharpest decline in ranking, falling
12 0 Egypt 70 +5
seven spots to 15th..
12 +2 Morocco 70 +6
Overall, the GMTI scores this year highlights 12 +5 Bahrain 70 +7
a global push to attract and serve Muslim
travelers, with strong upward trends in the 15 -1 Maldives 69 +5
score and service quality – but also signals 15 -7 Brunei 69 +3
that destinations must continue to evolve 17 -3 Uzbekistan 67 +3
quickly to retain competitive positioning.
18 -1 Pakistan 66 +3
19 0 Tunisia 65 +3
20 0 Azerbaijan 64 +3
20 +2 Lebanon 64 +5
The GMTI 2025 rankings show an exceptional shift in the performance of non-OIC destinations, Non-OIC Change VS GMTI 2025 GMTI 2025 Change
with the average score of the top 20 rising by over 6%. These improvements reflect the growing Destination
Rank 2024 Rank Score VS 2024
efforts of destinations to cater to Muslim travelers through better services and inclusive 1 0 11 Singapore 71 +5
offerings. Singapore remains the top-ranked destination, improving its score to 71, while the
United Kingdom and Hong Kong follow closely, both scoring 63 with Hong Kong gaining a 2 0 22 United Kingdom 63 +5
(UK)
notable 10-point increase.
3 +1 23 Hong Kong 62 +10
Several destinations made strong gains this year. Taiwan, Thailand, Ireland, Australia, and the 4 -1 27 Taiwan 58 +3
Philippines all improved their scores by 3 to 7 points, showing clear enhancements in Muslim-
5 0 29 Thailand 57 +6
friendly amenities. Destinations such as Spain, Germany, South Africa, and Georgia also posted
consistent improvements, while Japan and South Korea continued to make steady progress in 6 +2 34 Ireland 54 +6
meeting Muslim travelers’ expectations. 6 +2 34 Australia 54 +6
8 +4 36 Philippines 53 +7
Newcomers and fast risers define this year’s
9 -3 38 Spain 52 +3
ranking, with Russia and Canada entering
the top 20 after leaping 16 and 13 spots, 9 -1 38 Germany 52 +4
respectively. New Zealand also made 9 +3 38 South Africa 52 +5
gains, alongside new entrants like Macao. 9 -2 38 Georgia 52 +3
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Tanzania, and
Kenya are just a few examples of places 9 +3 38 Bosnia and 52 +5
Herzegovina
that are part of a larger global trend where
more non-OIC destinations are attempting 14 -6 44 Japan 51 +4
to make themselves more appealing to 15 +1 46 South Korea 50 +5
Muslim travelers and investing in inclusive 16 +16 48 Russia 49 +9
strategies.
16 +13 48 Canada 49 +8
16 +3 48 New Zealand 49 +7
16 +1 48 Tanzania 49 +5
16 +1 48 Kenya 49 +6
16 New 48 Macao 49 New
As the scores of various destinations have improved, the average GMTI 2025 score for each region
reflects these changes. The top five regions and their leading destinations remain unchanged Regions Average GMTI 2025 Score Top Destinations
from 2024, although each has seen a slight increase in scores. Western Asia and Northern Africa Western Asia 67 Saudi Arabia, Türkiye
continue to lead, largely due to their composition of Muslim-majority destinations and their
understanding of Muslim-friendly needs, including countries like Turkiye, the Gulf Cooperation Northern Africa 65 Egypt, Morocco
Council (GCC) nations, Egypt, and Morocco. Central Asia 60 Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan
Southern Asia 56 Iran, Maldives
Central Asia, remaining in third place, has a high rank for similar reasons, given its extensive Islamic
heritage. This year, Southern Asia has managed to tie with South-Eastern Asia, both averaging a South-Eastern Asia 56 Malaysia, Indonesia
score of 56. Southern Asia boasts the Maldives, which is well-known for its tourism efforts, and Iran, Oceania 52 Australia, New Zealand
a growing destination that emphasizes its rich culture and history. In contrast, South-Eastern Asia’s Eastern Asia 50 Hong Kong, Taiwan
relatively modest increase indicates that greater efforts and collaborative measures are necessary
Northern America 48 Canada, United States of America (USA)
to maintain competitiveness within the Muslim travel market.
Western Africa 47 Senegal, Gambia
Southern Europe 46 Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Western Europe 45 Germany, France
Northern Europe 45 United Kingdom (UK), Ireland
Eastern Africa 43 Comoros, Kenya
Central Africa 42 Cameroon, Chad
Eastern Europe 40 Russia, Bulgaria
Southern Africa 39 South Africa, Botswana
Caribbean 37 Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba
South America 37 Guyana, Suriname
Central America 34 Belize, Costa Rica
While a higher Muslim demographic often aligns with elevated GMTI scores— 80.0
as seen in Western Asia (66.7 score, 65.82% Muslim), Northern Africa (64.6 score,
96.69% Muslim), and Southern Asia (56.4 score, 59.58% Muslim)—this trend
isn’t universal. These regions naturally excel due to ingrained Muslim-friendly
Western Asia
infrastructure like prevalent Halal food and prayer facilities. However, the data Northern America
strongly suggests that a region’s commitment to catering to Muslim travelers is a
more critical determinant of GMTI success than merely its local Muslim population 60.0
Central Asia
size. South-eastern Asia Southern Asia
This becomes evident when observing sub-regions that achieve commendable Eastern Asia
GMTI scores despite having very small Muslim populations. Eastern Asia (50.1 Northern America
Southern Europe
score, 1.52% Muslim) stands out as a prime example, showcasing significant NoWestern Europe
Eastern Africa
Western Africa
overall traveler experience are the pivotal elements. This highlights a universal 0.00% 25.00% 50.00% 75.00% 100.00%
In the ACES framework, the Access criterion evaluates how easily a destination can
be reached from the top 30 outbound Muslim markets. These destinations have Top 10 Destinations Air Connectivity (2021-2025)
demonstrated strong performance through improved air connectivity, visa facilitation, in ACCESS Air connectivity has seen steady improvement over the past years,
and investments in transportation infrastructure–key factors in attracting Muslim with destinations expanding direct flight access to major Muslim
travelers. United Arab Emirates outbound markets. The increase in air connectivity scores indicates a
(UAE) strong commitment to enhancing global reach.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) secures the top position, continuing to lead as one
of the most accessible destinations. This is largely attributed to its extensive global Qatar The top destinations that have expanded routes to accommodate
air connectivity, with major international airlines operating out of world-class airports. increasing demand from Muslim travelers are the United Arab Emirates
Additionally, the UAE’s modern and efficient public transport systems, along with (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait.
streamlined and progressive visa policies, ensure a seamless travel experience. Oman
Qatar remains a leading destination with strong accessibility. Its high ranking is Visa Requirements (2021-2025)
supported by strategic investments in air and ground transport infrastructure, favorable Türkiye Visa facilitation continues to improve, with more destinations
visa arrangements, and global visibility through hosting international events. simplifying processes and expanding visa-free or e-visa access to
In third place is Oman, which has maintained a steady position over the years. The
Georgia Muslim-majority destinations. These efforts reflect a broader shift
toward openness and ease of travel for Muslim tourists..
destination continues to enhance its appeal through targeted development of
its tourism infrastructure and by easing visa requirements, making it increasingly Saudi Arabia The top performers that have eased entry requirements are Madagascar,
accessible to Muslim travelers. Malaysia, Suriname, Türkiye, and Tajikistan.
Türkiye ranked fourth, higher than last year, reflecting its continued popularity and Azerbaijan
strong connectivity. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, coupled Transport Infrastructure (2021-2025)
with an efficient transport network and a wide range of flight options, supports its Malaysia Transport infrastructure remains a consistent strength among top-
position as a key destination in the Muslim travel market. ranking destinations. Destinations like Hong Kong, Singapore, and
Taiwan continue to lead with their world-class urban transport systems,
Georgia enters the top five in 2025. This milestone highlights the country’s rising status China efficient airports, and integrated intercity travel networks. These
among Muslim-friendly destinations, driven by improvements in transport accessibility, destinations have maintained high standards through continuous
simplified visa policies, and increased efforts to cater to the needs of Muslim tourists. innovation, investment in smart mobility, and travel-focused upgrades,
Georgia’s growing awareness of Muslim-friendly services has enhanced its reputation Jordan
enhancing accessibility.
as an emerging destination.
The communication category assesses how effectively destinations interact with Muslim
travelers. It evaluates how these destinations promote services that cater to Muslim needs
and how they educate local stakeholders about Muslim travel requirements. This assessment
includes factors such as language accessibility, the visibility of Muslim-friendly offerings, and
the overall awareness of stakeholders regarding the needs of Muslim travelers.
Halal travel guides are becoming essential for destinations Additional Benefits:
around the world, as they promote inclusivity and build In an age where AI-enabled travel planning is
trust with Muslim travelers. These guides enhance the gaining significant traction, specialized Halal Travel
Muslim travel experience by highlighting Halal dining Guides continue to play an important role—not just
options, prayer facilities, and culturally respectful services. in itinerary planning, but more importantly, in brand
In recent years, several destinations have launched building with Muslim travelers.
such guides. CrescentRating and HalalTrip have been
at the forefront of this effort, collaborating with various Brand Image: Developing these guides
destinations to develop and promote these resources for can strengthen a destination’s brand image,
Muslim travelers. positioning it as Muslim-friendly and inclusive.
This can attract more travelers from the Muslim
Macao: The guide presents Macao as an emerging world.
Muslim-friendly destination that blends Eastern and
Western heritage with modern experiences. It highlights Trust and Assurance: Travelers feel safer and
Halal-certified restaurants, including the Indo Pak Curry more confident, especially in non-Muslim majority
House, and emphasizes the availability of prayer facilities destinations, when they have ready access to on-
at the Macao Mosque. Furthermore, the guide points the-go information about their faith-related needs.
out key attractions such as the Ruins of St. Paul’s, Senado
Square, and the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion, all of which Tourism Growth: Muslim visitor guides can lead
serve as welcoming resources for Muslim travelers. to increased tourism by simplifying travel planning
and enhancing the visitor experience. This, in turn,
New York City: The guide highlights New York City as a boosts the local economy and fosters cultural
vibrant Muslim-friendly travel destination, offering diverse exchange.
Halal dining options like The Halal Guys and Junoon, and
prayer facilities at key mosques such as Masjid Manhattan Recognizing the importance of these guides, the
and the Islamic Cultural Center of New York. It features Communication pillar in the ACES framework includes
iconic attractions like Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and metrics evaluating destinations that have published
The Met, all within reach of Muslim-friendly amenities, such guides. This highlights the importance of
providing a rich and inclusive experience for Muslim providing transparent and accessible information in
travelers. attracting Muslim travelers.
General Safety
The Environment category evaluates multiple facets of a
The General Safety evaluation is crucial for understanding a Sustainability Evaluation
destination’s environment to determine its overall suitability and The Sustainability evaluation assesses destinations’
destination’s safety and security landscape. It assesses several
attractiveness for Muslim travelers. commitment to sustainable initiatives. It is also a key
aspects to determine the overall safety and inclusiveness of
Muslim travelers, focusing on the prevalence of hate crimes, dimension in the RIDA framework. This evaluation
Faith Restrictions hate speeches, and the perception of Islamophobia. encompasses socio-economic, environmental, and
The Faith Restrictions evaluation focuses on identifying and socio-cultural dimensions, providing a view of a
Hate Crimes and Hate Speeches: Hate crimes and hate speech destination’s sustainability efforts.
assessing any limitations or bans that might affect Muslim
targeting Muslims have been on the rise in the past years in
travelers’ ability to practice their faith freely during the journey. Over the past few years, the average scores
several regions across the globe. These acts range from verbal
This includes examining three key areas: Hijab, Niqab, and Ritual for sustainability have shown a positive trend,
harassment and discriminatory language to physical violence
Slaughter restrictions. increasing from 44 in 2022 to 48 in 2025. This
and the defacement of Muslim-associated properties, including
Hijab Restrictions: Some destinations have restrictions on mosques and community centers. Social media and other improvement indicates a growing commitment
wearing the hijab in specific public places, which can influence digital platforms have amplified the spread of hateful rhetoric, among destinations to adopt sustainable practices
the overall perception of religious acceptance and freedom. further fueling an atmosphere of hostility and exclusion. across socio-economic, environmental, and socio-
cultural dimensions.
Niqab Restrictions: Similarly, a few destinations have enacted
bans on the niqab, mainly during airport customs, impacting the Basic Utilities
comfort and freedom of a small minority of Muslim women who Introduced in this year’s ACES framework is the “Basic
wear it. Utilities” criteria to assess the availability and reliability of Accessibility
critical infrastructure for a comfortable and stress-free travel The Accessibility evaluation aims to assess how
Ritual Slaughter Restrictions: Only a few destinations impose experience. It includes services such as internet connectivity, well destinations cater to the diverse needs of
restrictions on ritual slaughter, limiting the availability of Halal clean and well-maintained sanitation facilities, safe and readily travelers with special needs. Efforts to enhance
food options for Muslim travelers. However, in many places, the available drinking water, and electricity. These basic amenities the accessibility of transportation and public
import of Halal slaughtered meat is permitted as a solution. play a central role in ensuring the safety, convenience, and spaces contribute to a more inclusive environment,
well-being of travelers, particularly those visiting unfamiliar allowing travelers with diverse needs to enjoy
There have been some increase in restrictive policies last year, destinations. Reliable essential services not only enhance day-
resulting in a decrease on the average score for faith restriction, their experiences without barriers. As destinations
to-day comfort but also build traveler confidence. Leading non- increasingly recognize the importance of
from 90.6 to 90.4. Despite the small decline, the majority of OIC destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea,
destinations do not impose restrictions and Muslim travelers feel accessibility, noticeable improvements have been
Denmark, and Finland rank highly in this area, offering robust made in this area.
more at ease. infrastructure and dependable utilities.
The Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) utilizes social listening analysis to assess Muslim travelers’ perceptions of destination environments. Analysis
of online news and media sources from the past year indicates trends in public sentiment towards Muslims, a factor that directly influences a IN 2024 8,658
traveler’s sense of security and welcome. CAIR received a total of 8,061
Understanding the Landscape: Data-Driven Insights for the Muslim Traveler 8,658 6,144
6,720
For Muslim travelers, an awareness of the social climate is essential for making informed destination choices and ensuring a positive travel experience. COMPLAINTS
3,156
The following data points, derived from social listening analysis, offer insights into regional trends: Employment discrimination
Europe: Data from 2024 highlights varying conditions. Germany, for instance, officially recorded over 1,550 incidents classified as Islamophobic, 1,329
including attacks on places of worship. In France, specific events have continued to fuel public discourse concerning community safety. This
Immigration and asylum cases
information is pertinent for travelers evaluating regional safety.
1,283
North America: In the United States, civil rights organizations noted a record number of anti-Muslim discrimination cases in 2024, signaling an
Education discrimination
increase in such occurrences. In Canada, discussions regarding equitable access to services, such as healthcare for Muslim individuals, point to areas
where inclusivity can be enhanced. 848 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Asia-Pacific: In this region, reports indicate the influence of political narratives and misinformation on public sentiment. An Australian report, Hate crimes and incidents Total Complaints Received
for example, documented over 600 Islamophobic incidents between 2023 and 2024. This represents a significant rise from previous years, with a 647 2020-2024
disproportionate effect observed on women and girls. Source: Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Source: Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
Total Arrival
encouraging tolerance. Religion or religious belief 17%
(M)
40%
National-level responses include the United Kingdom’s commitment to increased funding for the Skin color 9%
protection of Muslim places of worship. Similarly, the Australian Human Rights Commission’s proposal Age 6%
for a National Anti-Racism Framework indicates a proactive stance. 20%
Gender 4%
Implications for the Muslim Traveler Disability 2%
The data gathered through social listening suggests that prevailing social sentiments and documented
0% Sexual orientation 1%
Austria
Belgium
Germany
Denmark
Greece
Spain
Finland
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Netherlands
Sweden
incidents will factor into Muslim travelers’ evaluation of destinations. Access to information on such
Gender identity or gender expression 1%
incidents and corresponding policy responses empowers travelers to make more informed decisions.
Other grounds 2%
Region
This analysis also serves as a benchmark for destinations, encouraging the cultivation of environments
that are genuinely safe, respectful, and welcoming to Muslim visitors. Source: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights Source: European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights
The Services pillar of the ACES framework evaluates the availability and quality of
services that cater to the specific needs of Muslim travelers.
Hong Kong Hotels Embrace Muslim-Friendly Increasing Muslim-Friendly Services at MICE Philippines’ Megaworld Hotels and Resorts Expand
Hospitality Venues on Muslim-Friendly Facilities
As global Muslim travel continues to grow, Hong Kong’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) In the Philippines, Megaworld Hotels and Resorts have
hospitality sector is increasingly responding with greater venues are increasingly enhancing their services to cater recognized the growing demand for Halal and faith-based
cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Over 60 hotels have to Muslim business travelers. A growing number of venues accommodations and stepped up their offerings across
been rated as Muslim-friendly by CrescentRating, with worldwide are incorporating features such as prayer several of its key properties.
ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars. rooms, Halal food options, facilities for performing wudu
(ablution), and water-friendly toilets. The group has implemented various facilities and services
Two of the city’s renowned luxury hotels—Island Shangri- tailored to meet the needs of Muslim travelers. These include
La and Grand Hyatt Hong Kong—have recently enhanced In Hong Kong, both the Hong Kong Conference and Qibla direction markers in guest rooms, the availability of
their offerings by providing a comprehensive range of Exhibition Centre and the AsiaWorld-Expo have set up prayer rugs upon request, water-friendly toilets, and a list
Muslim-friendly facilities to meet the unique needs of prayer rooms, Halal food options, and water-friendly of nearby mosques. This is the case for establishments
Muslim guests. Additionally, The Mira Hong Kong has washrooms as part of the city’s efforts to better serve such as Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan, Grand
hosted Iftar buffets during Ramadan for the first time. Muslim visitors attending exhibitions and conferences. Westside Hotel, and Hotel Lucky Chinatown. All of these
properties offer Halal-certified breakfast menus and have
These enhancements in hotels include prayer rugs Singapore Expo, the largest conference and exhibition dedicated kitchen sections that are also Halal-certified by
available upon request, clearly marked Qibla direction venue in Singapore, offers designated separate prayer the local Halal certification body to ensure strict adherence
in guest rooms, and curated lists of nearby mosques to rooms for males and females, along with a variety of Halal to dietary requirements.
support prayer observance during travel. Many hotels in food options available on-site.
Hong Kong now feature Halal breakfast corners and water- Additionally, Megaworld Hotels has also invested in
friendly toilets, and their kitchens are Halal-certified by the The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok infrastructure. Each featured property offers a designated
local certification body. features elegantly designed separate prayer areas for public prayer space with separate areas for male and female
males and females, as well as several Halal food options. use to maintain privacy. Hotel Lucky Chinatown goes a
These developments signal a positive shift within Hong step further by providing a gender-separated spa facility,
Kong’s hotel sector, acknowledging the growing demand These examples illustrate how many venues are recognizing
the needs of Muslim visitors and implementing suitable taking note of modesty and wellness needs. These efforts
for faith-based travel services and reflecting a deeper reflect Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ broader commitment
commitment to inclusive, respectful, and globally minded amenities.
to becoming a more inclusive hospitality brand.
hospitality.
This page visually illustrates the ACES framework criteria across a traveler’s journey, demonstrating their impact from start to finish. For each stage, the overall average score is
plotted alongside the average scores of various regions. This comparison offers key insights into how different destinations perform relative to one another, highlighting areas
for improvement and providing an overview of the Muslim travelers touchpoints.
Transport
Visa Requirements Accomodation Infrastructure Halal Dining
(40,91) (24,80) (38,98) (15,100)
Connectivity
(91,24)
Sustainability Faith Restrictions
(28,72) (20,100)
Asia
Europe
America
Africa
HOME TRANSPORT TERMINALS TRANSPORT ACCOMMODATION Prayer DINING
Oceania
The Muslim Women-Friendly Destination sub-index was launched in the GMTI 2023. As the market
for Muslim women’s travel evolves, more and more Muslim women are traveling in female-only
groups and solo. They are also becoming increasingly influential in trip planning when traveling
with their families. This highlights the importance of creating travel spaces tailored to the needs • Visa requirements (5%)
of Muslim women, acknowledging their growing impact in the travel industry. • Connectivity (5%)
• Transport Infrastructure (5%)
Continuous Influence and Market Potential: Muslim women constitute a significant portion
of the Muslim travel market. This demographic has demonstrated considerable influence,
particularly in family and couple travel scenarios, where their input in planning and decision- ACCESS
making is almost double compared to other travel groups. (15%)
• Prayer places (10%)
SERVICES
Trends and Preferences: Digital platforms and social media have played a critical role in • Halal Dining (10%)
(40%)
GMTI
COMMUNICATIONS
amplifying the voices and visibility of women travelers. This have led to more demand for travel • Muslim-friendly Airports (10%)
and expectations towards destinations that respect cultural, faith practices, and actively support • Muslim-friendly Hotels (5%) ACES • Destination Marketing (5%)
(15%)
women travelers’ autonomy and safety. • Heritage & Experiences (5%) Framework • Communication Proficiency (5%)
• Stakeholder Awareness (5%)
Key Criteria in Destination Assessment: The GMTI assesses Muslim Women-Friendly
destinations using a set of tailored criteria integrated into the ACES model’s Environment ENVIRONMENT
dimension. These criteria focus on: (30%)
Faith Restrictions: Evaluating how destinations accommodate religious practices and attire
without imposing restrictions. • General Safety (10%)
49.3% of • Faith Restrictions (5%) 447 million Muslim
Safety: Ensuring that the destinations are safe for women travelers, addressing concerns • Sustainability (5%) women between the age
from street safety to harassment. the Muslim • Accessible travel (5%)
population are • Visitor Arrivals (2.5%)
of 21 to 50 years, who are
Sustainability: Incorporating sustainable practices that align with the values of Muslim influential in trip planning.
women travelers, such as eco-friendly tourism options and community-based tourism that female. • Basic Utilities (2.5%)
Considering the environment and overall scoring for ACES, these DESTINATION INDEX SCORE
destinations are among the most secure and safe places for Muslim
women travelers. These destinations are leading in terms of providing Singapore 82
peace of mind by ensuring safety and without any faith restrictions for Hong Kong 81
Muslim women travelers. Ireland 77
Singapore has solidified its status as the leading non-OIC destination, Taiwan 76
showing a slight increase to a score of 82 compared to 2024. The city-
Macau 75
state is known for its exceptional safety, welcoming multicultural
society, and well-developed infrastructure. These features, along with Japan 75
a very Muslim-friendly environment, make it particularly convenient Portugal 74
and secure for Muslim women travelers, whether they are traveling solo
Malta 74
or in groups. Following closely behind are several Asian destinations,
which scored between 73 and 81. This trend underscores the region’s New Zealand 74
overall secure environment, supported by a growing number of South Korea 73
Muslim-friendly facilities.
Slovenia 72
Destinations outside of Asia are experiencing shifts in their rankings, Czechia 72
with places like Slovenia, Australia, and Montenegro making their way
into the top 20. This year, Ireland, Portugal, Malta, and New Zealand are Iceland 72
in the top rankings. These destinations provide safer environments Uruguay 71
that respect diverse faith practices, appealing to travelers who seek
United Kingdom (UK) 71
both comfort and cultural exploration. As awareness of these amenities
grows, Muslim women can discover more locations that cater to Georgia 71
their faith-based needs while ensuring their safety. This makes these Andorra 71
destinations increasingly attractive for respectful and secure travel
experiences. Australia 70
Montenegro 70
Overall, this year shows steady progress in facilitating a better
environment for Muslim women travelers. Chile 70
This year’s scores provide valuable insights into the progress of OIC DESTINATION INDEX SCORE
destinations in attracting Muslim travelers, especially women. Southeast
Asia continues to lead, with Malaysia scoring 83 and Indonesia at 79. Malaysia 83
This highlights their strong commitment to offering safe, inclusive, Türkiye 80
and faith-aligned travel experiences. The Middle East also remains a Qatar 80
significant player, with Türkiye and Qatar both achieving a score of 80,
joined by high performers such as the UAE, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. Indonesia 79
Additionally, the Maldives ranks highly due to its combination of luxury United Arab Emirates (UAE) 79
and Muslim-friendly facilities.
Maldives 79
Central Asia continues to be represented by Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait 78
and Azerbaijan, which are all featured in the top 20 destinations. These
Brunei 77
destinations are enhancing their tourism offerings by improving
accessibility and focusing on cultural sensitivity. Iran and Oman also Saudi Arabia 77
maintain strong positions, scoring 76 due to their combination of safety, Iran 76
local hospitality, and heritage infrastructure. Additionally, Bahrain and
Jordan are making consistent efforts to improve travel readiness by Oman 76
enhancing services and fostering community engagement. Jordan 75
To enhance the importance of destinations in promoting accessible travel, GMTI is introducing a new sub-index
this year: “Muslim-Friendly Accessible Travel Destination.” This initiative emphasizes the essential need for travel
environments that cater to the unique requirements of various travelers, particularly those who are physically
challenged, neurodivergent, active seniors, and multi-generational family groups. • Visa requirements (5%)
• Connectivity (5%)
Expanding Influence and Market Significance • Transport Infrastructure (5%)
Accessible travel is a substantial and expanding market, with over 1 billion individuals globally living with some form
of disability UN Tourism. This demographic often travels with companions UN Tourism. The incidence of disability rises ACCESS
with age, pertinent for Muslim travelers on multi-generational family journeys. The market potential is reinforced by (15%)
60% of families willing to pay more for travel options accommodating neurodiverse travelers (TripAdvisor), indicating • Prayer places (10%)
SERVICES
a strong demand for inclusive experiences. • Halal Dining (10%)
(40%)
GMTI
COMMUNICATIONS
• Muslim-friendly Airports (10%)
Evolving Trends and Traveler Preferences • Muslim-friendly Hotels (5%) ACES • Destination Marketing (5%)
(15%)
The trend towards accessible travel harmonizes perfectly with core faith principles, prioritizing human dignity and life. • Heritage & Experiences (5%) Framework • Communication Proficiency (5%)
Despite the considerable market requirement, only 9% of global tourism destinations currently possess accessibility • Stakeholder Awareness (5%)
solutions (UN Tourism) This disparity highlights an opportunity for destinations to innovate and promote genuinely
accessible and Muslim-friendly offerings. ENVIRONMENT
(30%)
Core Criteria for Destination Evaluation
Currently, data on the availability of services and amenities for accessible travel is not widely documented due to • General Safety (10%)
the evolving nature of this field. However, acknowledging the importance of this sector, this year’s sub-index utilizes Only 9% of global • Faith Restrictions (5%) Over 1 billion people
an initial set of data that combines criteria from both the transport infrastructure aspect of the Access dimension
and the safety and accessibility criteria from the Environment dimension. As more data becomes available, it will be
tourism destinations •
•
Sustainability (5%)
Accessible travel (5%)
worldwide live with
incorporated into the ACES framework and reflected in the sub-index.:
are equipped with • Visitor Arrivals (2.5%) some form of disability,
Accessibility: Ensuring an universally accessible environment, catering to diverse needs and ease of navigation accessibility solutions • Basic Utilities (2.5%) representing about
for all travelers. for travelers with 15% of the global
Transport Infrastructure: Assessing the ease of movement within the destination. specific needs.- UN
Safety: Ensuring that the destinations are safe for any travelers, regardless the condition. population.” - UN
Tourism.
Muslim-friendliness: The overall Muslim-friendly of the destination derived from the GMTI scores.
A closer examination of OIC’s Muslim-Friendly Accessible Destinations reveals a varied DESTINATION SCORE
performance, generally indicating room for significant improvement when compared to the
top-tier non-OIC destinations. While OIC destinations inherently offer a strong Muslim-friendly Qatar 75
environment, the challenge often lies in consistently providing the advanced accessibility Malaysia 74
infrastructure and comprehensive services seen in their non-OIC counterparts, underscoring
Maldives 71
areas for strategic development.
Türkiye 71
The highest scorers within the OIC group are Qatar (75), Malaysia (74), Maldives (71), Türkiye (71),
and Indonesia (70). These destinations, often major tourism players or emerging economies, Indonesia 70
demonstrate stronger efforts in accessible tourism. Qatar and Malaysia, in particular, have United Arab Emirates (UAE) 69
invested in modern infrastructure, including accessible airports (like Hamad International
Saudi Arabia 65
Airport in Qatar), public transport, and accommodations, while also actively promoting their
destinations to a global Muslim audience. The Maldives and Türkiye, popular for leisure and Kuwait 64
cultural tourism respectively, benefit from a natural “Muslim-friendly” environment, but their Oman 63
scores suggest ongoing efforts to upgrade physical accessibility beyond core tourist areas.
Indonesia, a vast archipelago, shows strong commitment, particularly in specific regions, but Brunei 62
faces the challenge of consistent accessibility across all regions. Iran 61
Further down the list, destinations like the UAE (69), Saudi Arabia (65), Kuwait (64), and Oman Jordan 60
(63) highlight the mixed progress within the Gulf region. While these destinations possess Senegal 60
state-of-the-art infrastructure in their major cities, the scores suggest that the integration of
universal accessibility standards may not be as consistently widespread as in the top non-OIC Kazakhstan 57
examples. The lower scores for many other OIC destinations, such as in Central Asia (Kazakhstan Uzbekistan 57
57, Uzbekistan 57) and North Africa (Morocco 57, Tunisia 54, Algeria 53), often point to
Morocco 57
fundamental challenges like limited investment in tourism infrastructure, varying levels of
accessibility legislation enforcement, and less developed public transportation systems that Azerbaijan 56
cater to specific needs. This implicitly highlights that despite their Islamic heritage, these Bahrain 56
nations still have substantial opportunities to enhance their physical infrastructure, train staff,
and provide more comprehensive accessibility information to truly tap into the potential of Tunisia 54
the Muslim-friendly accessible travel market. Algeria 53
Visa Transport Infra- Communication Destination Stakeholder General Faith Visitor Halal Heritage & Accomoda-
2025 Rank 2024 Score Connectivity Basic Utilities Sustainability Accessibility Prayer Places Airport
Requirements structure Proficiency Marketing Awareness Safety Restrictions Arrivals Dining Experiences tion
Albania 30 56 19 78 69 16 20 50 96 84 60 49 59 20 85 90 33 10 60
Algeria 23 62 24 42 56 70 4 50 88 76 80 44 52 48 90 100 67 24 72
Andorra 96 40 9 51 96 14 12 4 97 84 100 54 83 3 35 30 0 10 32
Argentina 136 33 2 62 60 3 8 10 94 56 100 51 70 1 40 10 0 9 32
Armenia 103 39 63 71 59 33 4 0 92 70 100 51 64 19 30 30 0 8 24
Aruba 109 38 1 51 70 28 8 0 96 76 100 45 47 1 40 30 17 10 32
Australia 34 54 7 43 77 66 71 20 99 79 80 57 89 9 70 30 46 15 56
Austria 96 40 50 51 83 41 4 20 98 51 26 57 88 17 60 25 9 9 40
Azerbaijan 20 64 81 70 78 25 15 48 93 76 100 54 45 27 75 100 63 20 60
Bahamas 114 37 2 68 59 61 12 4 93 76 100 48 46 1 35 25 0 10 28
Bahrain 12 70 35 69 77 72 24 38 99 76 100 50 38 80 90 100 100 9 72
Bangladesh 26 59 29 57 55 12 9 48 73 76 100 39 27 7 90 100 87 11 68
Belgium 74 44 55 51 70 34 4 12 99 54 44 58 92 8 60 50 20 11 40
Belize 121 36 1 58 59 44 12 4 81 76 100 51 40 1 35 30 0 10 28
Benin 60 46 6 61 74 12 0 20 46 76 100 38 57 15 55 70 33 10 48
Bolivia 132 34 0 72 49 4 0 4 74 76 100 51 54 1 40 25 0 9 32
Bosnia and Herzegovina 38 52 19 63 48 19 12 40 92 84 60 50 69 9 75 80 32 18 60
Botswana 103 39 0 78 65 25 4 2 85 84 100 44 63 1 45 30 0 11 36
Brazil 114 37 6 66 55 2 13 14 89 68 100 64 53 2 45 25 0 17 36
Brunei 15 69 21 69 60 53 30 46 97 92 100 46 43 13 100 100 100 10 80
Bulgaria 81 43 48 51 62 11 4 16 93 70 60 52 77 27 50 50 18 12 36
Burkina Faso 74 44 8 46 53 12 4 38 35 64 100 29 34 14 70 70 33 10 56
Cabo Verde 132 34 5 71 66 1 0 2 78 76 100 37 60 3 25 25 0 10 48
Cambodia 103 39 8 68 56 14 36 8 75 76 100 47 30 6 35 30 27 10 28
Cameroon 60 46 11 56 52 38 2 16 54 76 60 47 46 12 55 90 33 9 44
Canada 48 49 24 42 76 64 4 28 99 67 60 53 84 6 60 50 37 16 56
Chad 60 46 9 40 42 22 4 24 28 76 60 32 14 12 65 70 93 9 52
Chile 103 39 2 61 73 4 12 2 96 84 100 52 82 1 40 25 0 13 32
China 74 44 78 52 89 1 30 10 94 61 34 72 38 41 50 30 19 54 40
Visa Transport Infra- Communication Destination Stakeholder General Faith Visitor Halal Heritage & Accomoda-
2025 Rank 2024 Score Connectivity Basic Utilities Sustainability Accessibility Prayer Places Airport
Requirements structure Proficiency Marketing Awareness Safety Restrictions Arrivals Dining Experiences tion
Visa Transport Infra- Communication Destination Stakeholder General Faith Visitor Halal Heritage & Accomoda-
2025 Rank 2024 Score Connectivity Basic Utilities Sustainability Accessibility Prayer Places Airport
Requirements structure Proficiency Marketing Awareness Safety Restrictions Arrivals Dining Experiences tion
Visa Transport Infra- Communication Destination Stakeholder General Faith Visitor Halal Heritage & Accomoda-
2025 Rank 2024 Score Connectivity Basic Utilities Sustainability Accessibility Prayer Places Airport
Requirements structure Proficiency Marketing Awareness Safety Restrictions Arrivals Dining Experiences tion
Visa Transport Infra- Communication Destination Stakeholder General Faith Visitor Halal Heritage & Accomoda-
2025 Rank 2024 Score Connectivity Basic Utilities Sustainability Accessibility Prayer Places Airport
Requirements structure Proficiency Marketing Awareness Safety Restrictions Arrivals Dining Experiences tion
Top Muslim-Friendly MALAYSIA & Top Muslim-Friendly MALAYSIA & Top Muslim-Friendly Destination Top Muslim-Friendly Destination
MALAYSIA INDONESIA INDONESIA MALAYSIA
Destination of the Year Destination of the Year of the Year of the Year
Top Muslim-Friendly Destination Top Muslim-Friendly Destination SAUDI Top Muslim-Friendly Destination Top Muslim-Friendly Destination
SINGAPORE SINGAPORE ARABIA SINGAPORE
of the Year (Non-OIC) of the Year (Non-OIC) of the Year of the Year (Non-OIC)
Emerging Muslim-Friendly Muslim Women-Friendly Top Muslim-Friendly Destination Most Promising Muslim-Friendly
UZBEKISTAN MALAYSIA SINGAPORE HONG KONG
Destination of the Year (OIC) Destination of the Year of the Year (Non-OIC) Destination of the Year
Stakeholder Awareness
INDONESIA
Campaign of the Year
Technical Notes
Data Collection and Sources • Proxies: In situations where strong similarities exist between destinations in cultural, economic, or travel patterns,
GMTI uses a similar destination’s data as a proxy. This approach ensures that data reflects realistic patterns, allowing one
The data used in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) is derived in several ways: destination to reasonably represent another.
• Extensive research carried out by CrescentRating’s dedicated team. They collate information from multiple sources.
Data Normalization Techniques
• Data from CrescentRating’s CR MAPS data platform.
• Data from CrescentRating and HalalTrip’s existing studies. GMTI utilizes two primary normalization techniques to ensure that the data is comparable and standardized across diverse
variables: Clipping Normalization and Linear Normalization.
• CrescentRating’s data extraction models are employed to derive specific insights from the collected data.
Clipping Normalization is a technique where a maximum (and possibly minimum) value for a data set is defined, and these
• Small number of data sets based on trusted third-party data & indices.. They include United Nations (UN), World Bank, defined maxima and minima are assigned to any outlier data points that fall beyond these set boundaries. This method is
United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), United Nations Educational, Scientific and used when dealing with data that contains extreme values or outliers that might distort the overall analysis. By ‘clipping’ these
• Cultural Organization (UNESCO), World Economic Forum (WEF), Our World in Data, Vision of Humanity, Global Innovation outliers to a predetermined maximum or minimum, it is ensured that they don’t disproportionately influence the results.
Index, and IQ Air. Linear Normalization, on the other hand, transforms all data points to fall within a predefined range. This process maintains
• Utilized expert panel opinions from destinations covered in the report to gain their perspective regarding the availability of the original distribution of the data while ensuring all values are within a comparable range. This normalization technique is
Muslim-friendly facilities within the destination particularly used when combining data of different units, scales, or magnitudes, as it brings them all to a uniform scale without
losing their original relational differences.
Data Utilization and Projections
Calculating GMTI Scores
GMTI utilizes data primarily from the current year, with this report incorporating data from 2024 and early 2025. The cut-off date
for data used in this report is the end of March 2024, ensuring the most up-to-date information is included. The calculation of scores for each destination follows a three-step process that is embedded within the ACES Framework.
Data from Recent Years: In some instances, certain datasets may not be available for the current year. In these cases, GMTI The Two-Tiered Approach: Each of the four main categories - Access, Communication, Environment, and Services, comprises
resorts to using data from the most recent previous years. This ensures a comprehensive overview of the travel industry, avoiding two distinct tiers of data. This structured approach ensures that every critical aspect within each category is duly considered.
significant data gaps. Weighted Average Calculations for Subcategories: The individual scores for each subcategory are computed based on a
Two-Pronged Approach: To maintain the comprehensiveness and reliability of the index when specific data for a destination weighted average of the number of data sets contained within that subcategory. This process ensures that each element within
is unavailable, GMTI adopts a two-pronged approach: the subcategory influences the final score, in proportion to its relevance and importance.
• Projections: This method leverages historical data patterns from the destination to estimate current figures. By analyzing Overall GMTI Score Determination: The comprehensive score for each destination, is determined by calculating the
past trends, GMTI provides a calculated and informed estimate, filling in gaps where necessary. weighted average of the four main categories. This final score offers a robust and fair representation of the destination’s Muslim-
friendliness based on access, communication, environment, and services.
The GMTI Performance Matrix (GPM) continues to be a pivotal analytical tool in the Global Muslim Travel Index, providing essential Low GMTI Scores High
insights into how global destinations perform and tap into the Muslim travel market. By integrating GMTI scores with the percentage 50
of Muslim visitor arrivals, the GPM offers a detailed overview of a destination’s effectiveness in catering to and attracting Muslim High
travelers.
Matrix Configuration
The GPM organizes destinations into four distinct quadrants, each named to reflect the specific characteristics of the destinations Emerging
Trailblazers
within them: Destinations
• Quadrant I - Trailblazers: High GMTI Score / High Muslim Visitor Percentage
• Quadrant II - Emerging Destinations: High GMTI Score / Low Muslim Visitor Percentage
• Quadrant III - Potential Leaders: Low GMTI Score / Low Muslim Visitor Percentage % of
Muslim 12%
• Quadrant IV - Untapped Potential: Low GMTI Score / High Muslim Visitor Percentage visitor
arrivals
These categories enable destinations to clearly understand their current standing in the Muslim travel market and identify strategic
areas for growth and improvement.
• Enhancing Services and Infrastructure: For destinations like those in Quadrant II (Emerging Destinations) and Quadrant IV
(Untapped Potential), there is a clear incentive to elevate service quality and infrastructure to better meet the needs of Muslim
travelers and move towards Quadrant I (Trailblazers).
Low
• Focused Marketing and Outreach: Destinations in Quadrant III (Potential Leaders) and Quadrant IV (Untapped Potential) can
benefit from targeted marketing campaigns designed to increase their visibility among Muslim travelers and potentially shift their
position to a higher quadrant.
The midpoint for GMTI scores is set at 50, establishing an industry benchmark, while the midpoint for Muslim visitor arrivals has been
set to 12%.
Research Team
Tawfiq Ikhtianto
Fazal Bahardeen
Head of Research and
CEO Capacity Building
CrescentRating & HalalTrip
CrescentRating
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GLOBAL MUSLIM
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2025
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JUNE 2025