UAE and Saudi rank in top 3...

Muslim travellers to reach 245 million by 2030, spending US$230 billion

The UAE and Saudi Arabia have risen in the Muslim-friendly destination rankings, with both countries sharing second spot with Türkiye in the 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI).

This comes as international Muslim arrivals are expected to reach 245 million by 2030, up from 176 million in 2024, with total spend reaching US$230 billion, the report states.

The Index evaluated 153 destinations in four areas with Services making up 40% of total scores, including ratings for prayer room and mosque access, Halal dining, Muslim-friendly airports and hotels, plus heritage and experiences.

Of countries in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Malaysia retains top spot, scoring 79 points, an increase of three from 2024, putting it just one point ahead of Türkiye, Saudi and the UAE on 78.

Saudi was recognised for its improvements to tourist infrastructure and services as well as its inherent religious importance, while the UAE was praised for eco-friendly practices in hotels and attractions and its inclusive approach and luxury offerings.

The index also recognises Qatar in joint fifth place on 76 points, and Oman and Kuwait in joint seventh on 74 points, as these countries strengthen their offerings for Muslim travellers.

Outside of OIC countries, Singapore takes pole position (71 points), followed by the UK (63) and Hong Kong (62), with the latter receiving the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year award.

Key trends in Muslim travel
The Index also identified key trends that destinations and tourism stakeholders need to embrace to stay competitive, including Muslim-friendly facilities, apps for Halal travel, catering to female and solo travellers, and offering digital detox retreats to boost mindfulness and spirituality.

Culinary tourism has also been identified as a trend for 2025, with destinations encouraged to provide Halal-friendly dining and immersive cultural experiences to attract Middle Eastern luxury travellers.

“We are witnessing a profound shift from sightseeing to soul-searching,” said Safdar Khan, Division President, Southeast Asia at Mastercard. “Today’s travellers are seeking more than a destination; they’re seeking connection, identity, and purpose.”

Singapore-based CrescentRating uses industry insight to recognise destinations and hotels that cater to Muslim travellers. CrescentRatings go as high as seven for properties that “take into account most of the needs of a Halal-conscious traveller in their services and facilities" according to the company website.

For more information, visit www.mastercard.com and www.crescentrating.com

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