Muslim Travel Market Growth How Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Taiwan, and Hong Kong Are Shaping the Future of Halal Tourism and What Destinations Get Right and Wrong in Meeting the Needs of This Expanding Sector
Home»ASIA» Muslim Travel Market Growth How Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Taiwan, and Hong Kong Are Shaping the Future of Halal Tourism and What Destinations Get Right and Wrong in Meeting the Needs of This Expanding Sector
Friday, July 4, 2025
Global Growth of the Muslim Travel Market
The Muslim travel sector is witnessing a significant surge, with projections suggesting it will reach an impressive $235 billion by 2030, up from $189 billion in 2024, according to the recently published 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). This market is rapidly gaining attention, as it addresses the unique needs of Muslim travelers. These include halal food, designated prayer spaces, and accommodations that respect Islamic values. Destinations that strategically invest in such services are likely to benefit from long-term competitive advantages as this segment continues to grow.
The Rise of Halal Travel
The halal travel market is becoming an increasingly influential force in the global tourism industry. The GMTI ranks 145 destinations across the world based on a four-point framework: Access, Communication, Environment, and Services. The booming market is driven by three key trends: a growing Muslim population (expected to rise from 2.12 billion in 2024 to 2.47 billion by 2034), higher disposable income, and better access to travel infrastructure.
By 2024, international arrivals of Muslim travelers were already 10% higher than pre-pandemic levels, signaling strong recovery and highlighting the growing importance of catering to this market. The demand for halal-compliant services is expanding globally, not just in the Middle East, but also in various non-Muslim-majority countries, as more destinations recognize the lucrative potential of attracting Muslim tourists.
Southeast Asia Takes the Lead
Southeast Asia stands at the forefront of attracting Muslim travelers, with Malaysia leading as the top destination for Muslim-majority countries. Singapore follows closely among non-Muslim-majority nations. Both countries have built robust infrastructures to serve the needs of Muslim tourists, offering halal food, Muslim-friendly accommodations, and convenient prayer facilities.
Additionally, Thailand and the Philippines are emerging as serious contenders in the halal travel space. The Philippines has even introduced a halal-friendly beach in Boracay tailored to Muslim families. To strengthen its position, the Philippines Department of Tourism has been expanding halal food certifications and providing training to tourism operators, ensuring they meet the needs of Muslim visitors.
Countries such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Cambodia are also stepping up their efforts to offer halal-friendly services. Among non-Muslim-majority countries, Hong Kong and Taiwan rank third and fourth, respectively, in the GMTI, reflecting their commitment to meeting the demands of Muslim travelers.
Understanding the Needs of Muslim Travelers
There’s a misconception that halal travel is exclusively relevant to Middle Eastern destinations, but the reality is that any destination can appeal to Muslim travelers by offering halal food and faith-compliant services. Muslim travelers are divided into three categories based on their level of adherence to Islamic practices: strictly practicing, practicing, and less practicing. Each group has different needs and expectations:
Strictly practicing Muslims require facilities that adhere exclusively to halal standards, such as halal-only dining and dedicated prayer areas.
Less practicing Muslims, on the other hand, may be more flexible, preferring halal food but not necessarily requiring other faith-based services.
The most important considerations across all groups are halal food, access to prayer spaces, and a culturally respectful environment.
For destinations seeking to tap into this market, providing these essential services is crucial for attracting Muslim travelers.
Accessibility: A Growing Concern
Accessibility is an often overlooked yet critical component of halal travel. Many Muslim travelers, particularly those with families, may be traveling with elderly or disabled relatives. According to the United Nations Tourism, nearly 50% of people over the age of 60 have some form of disability, yet many destinations are still not equipped to cater to the mobility needs of all tourists.
Destinations aiming to attract Muslim travelers must ensure that their accommodations, transportation options, and prayer spaces are wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with limited mobility. Recognizing this gap, CrescentRating introduced accessibility as a standalone category in their index in 2023, urging destinations to improve their facilities to cater to these needs.
The Influence of Millennials and Gen Z
The role of Millennials and Gen Z Muslim travelers is pivotal in shaping the future of halal travel. These younger generations tend to be more digitally savvy and experience-driven, valuing flexibility in their travel choices. Unlike older generations, they may not strictly require all accommodations to be halal, but they appreciate having halal options available.
Moreover, Millennials and Gen Z Muslims are significant influencers on social media, often promoting destinations that cater to their specific needs. Their adventurous nature is contributing to the growth of halal travel, especially as they plan their trips around Islamic holidays such as Ramadan and Eid. These holidays, which shift each year, provide opportunities to boost tourism during typically slower periods, giving destinations a much-needed economic boost during off-peak seasons.
Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of CrescentRating, notes that leveraging the Muslim travel market can provide a more stable economic outlook for destinations. The influx of Muslim travelers helps cushion the impact of downturns in other tourism sectors, creating more balanced and sustainable tourism growth.
Key Insights
Southeast Asia continues to be a leading region for attracting Muslim travelers, with Malaysia and Singapore dominating the rankings.
Non-Muslim-majority countries like Philippines, Taiwan, and Hong Kong are making strong progress in becoming more halal-friendly.
The halal travel market is driven by an expanding Muslim population and increasing demand for services like halal food and prayer spaces.
Younger Muslim travelers (Millennials and Gen Z) are shaping the market by pushing for more flexibility, digital engagement, and innovative travel experiences.
The Impact on the Global Travel Industry
The growing recognition of the halal travel market is prompting a shift towards more inclusive, culturally sensitive tourism offerings across the globe. As countries begin to realize the significant economic potential of catering to Muslim travelers, they are diversifying their tourism services to meet the needs of this market. This expansion is not only beneficial for Muslim tourists but also pushes the broader tourism industry to rethink how it engages with all travelers, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their faith, can enjoy a seamless and inclusive travel experience. By investing in halal-friendly services and improving accessibility, destinations worldwide can tap into a dynamic and growing segment of the travel market, ultimately boosting both cultural understanding and economic growth.
With ‘a variety of cultures, breathtaking scenery and vibrant cities that are as colourful as they are diverse, there’s never a dull moment in Asia,’ the site offers its readers a choice of summer getaways. Here’s a roundup of the best 10 summer travel destinations in Asia that provide unforgettable experiences, relaxation, adventure and culture.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali Indonesia -always features as one of the best places to take a trip in Asia, with its wonderful beaches,tapping temples, and Malaysian culture and stunning rainforests. There’s great seafood and water sports at Jimbaran Bay, and luxury resorts, surfing and a party scene in Seminyak. Otherwise, Ubud is a tranquil escape into the cultural heart and soul of the island, complete with photogenic rice terraces, a traditional art market, yoga retreats, and sacred temples such as Uluwatu and Tanah Lot.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket Thailand’s largest island is famous for its white-sand beaches, opulent resorts and party vibe. Beach bums head to Patong Beach, but the quieter sands of Kata or Karon are also favored. Adventure-minded travellers can also hop between nearby islands on speedboat tours, or go scuba diving to see vibrant coral reefs and sea life up close.
Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam
Vietnam’s Hạ Long Bay, a Unesco World Heritage site, is filled with towering limestone islands that seem to rise from emerald waters. Visitors who book cruises on little Lan Ha Bay can sleep on overnight boats, discover intimate caves unseen by the masses, and kayak through sheltered lagoons and visit floating villages to learn how indigenous fishing families live. It’s memorable for all nature buffs as there’s grand nature beauty on the platter!
Seoul, South Korea
A hangover master mix of modern and old-school. Visitors can explore ancient palaces, participating in shows performed in them; traditional neighborhoods; or the modern bustle of Korea, like the nightlife and shopping of Myeongdong. It’s the kind of place where foodies will be able to taste fooditing Korean food anywhere from street food vendors to Michelin starred tables and enjoy a perfect trip that will be etched in their memories forever.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto \xe2\x80\x94 the cultural capital of Japan, known for ancient temples, zen gardens and streets of cobbles-straight preserved historic architecture. Among its iconic sites are Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a glittering structure that is the only one of its kind in the world; the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove; and the historic Gion district, center of geisha culture. An old school tea ceremony, real food and still parks would enlighten a visitor in culture.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap serves as a door to the stunning Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s link to its past. Adventurers can plunge into some of the world’s oldest ruins, wander among the hawker-happy markets showcasing local crafts or enjoy classical Khmer dance performances. And some tasty treats in Siem Reap really add to the experience while tasting the flavors that emanate from Cambodia’s special cultural make-up.
Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is a place to simply relax and soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, swim, jet-ski and eat basically. Nature lovers can explore mangrove swamps, jungle trails or take in the island from panoramic cable car rides. Langkawi offers the best of both worlds – from luxury and adventure to natural beauty.
Palawan, Philippines
Palawan – This charming province in the Philippines offers beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and an abundance of wildlife. Key destinations include El Nido and Coron’s lagoons and limestone cliffs, as well as the globally-recognized Underground River in Puerto Princesa. There are diving and snorkelling experiences here which bring to life the abundant coral reefs and marine life.
Singapore
It’s also a city of contrasts: skyscrapers abutting lush urban parks, conversations in a dozen languages, historic neighborhoods rubbing elbows with new immigrants. With icons like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and the Orchard Road shopping district, Singapore is one of a cosmopolitan city. Hawker centers also draw artificial foodies searching for the most authentic local flavors.
Maldives
The Maldives The epitome of tropical luxury, the Maldives are globally recognised for their crystal-clear lagoons, powdery white-sand beaches and overwater villas. From its quiet beaches and all-inclusive resorts, to adventures in the deep blue of the Caribbean, there is something for newlyweds and honeymooners to love whether it’s romance, relaxation, or some of the best diving in the world.Bonaire is synonymous with paradise. Snorkeling, diving and sun-set cruise are just a few of the nature-based activities that are offered that are simply inspiring in the world of natural wonders.
All of the destinations are only some of the qualities that have proved we are people of the heart of Asia – that’s its colour, diversity and places to go and make love in, in the coming months.
Two experts take us through the online travel landscape that’s unfolding in the US, and in the region, and share tips on how agents can build up their Web presence. Jennifer Welker reports. 12 Oct 2000
What do the top three US websites, Amazon, eBay and Travelocity have in common? None of them are profitable – yet.
Patrick Lai, vice president of e-commerce, Abacus International, said there were three phases to Internet evolution.
The first phase is to have a presence on the Net, the second to create partnerships with other websites to bring more people to one’s own site and finally to start doing real business in the third phase.
“No one is there yet in terms of phase three. Most travel sites are still in the first phase and moving on to the second phase. Survival depends on how deep their pockets are,” Lai said.
Although money is the driving force behind website survival, many companies in the US and abroad are paying the price for being seen on the Internet by an emerging audience.
Peter Styn, director of AC Nielson eRatings.com, has examined global Internet usage in the US over the past five years and 62 percent of all global users were from the US alone, in 1995.
Today, that percentage is down to 40 percent and, in 2005, Styn predicted that figure would drop to 27 percent.
These percentages are a reflection of Internet usage worldwide and certainly an encouraging sign to Internet companies which want to be viewed around the world.
Looking specifically at travel sites, there are significant increases in online travel browsing and bookings. AC Nielson eRatings.com keeps track of the “looker vs booker” rates to determine the activity at each travel site.
“It is interesting to note that 94 percent of the Travelbase.com audience is coming from referrals,” Styn said.
“The Travelbase.com portal is Yahoo.com, and this is evidence that the popularity of this travel site is linked to the portal.”
There are two basic types of travel sites: single-purpose and multi-purpose. Styn said single-purpose sites were designed for airlines or hotels while multi-purpose sites were one-stop shops with “full services” offering links to other sites.
“Such partnerships are crucial for success.
Most are currently single supplier sites, offering just one airline or hotel and this creates restrictions for the user. To survive, they will have to change to multiple supplier sites,” he said.
Other challenges US online travel sites are facing is handling the more complicated longhaul journeys, Styn said.
Most sites offer simple point A to B itineraries and cannot carry out complex, longhaul bookings. Styn predicted that more alliance sites will be created for the airlines which are forming partnerships.
Further as airlines grow uneasy with websites such as Travelocity.com and Priceline.com, he said they were buying into new sites such as Orbitz and Hotwire to compete.
Since the online travel industry was relatively new to Asia and Internet companies wre only just beginning to collect database information on their audiences, Styn said that eRatings was currently analysing the development of the websites and comparing them to the traditional practices of travel preparation.
Home»ASIA» Jeminay Port’s Tourism Surge: China-Kazakhstan Visa Exemption Attracts Thousands
Friday, July 18, 2025
The China-Kazakhstan border has seen a boost in tourism traffic in 2025 after China and Kazakhstan agreed to allow their citizens to travel without a visa. Jeminay Port, as a key portal in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China, has also turned into a hot spring for cross-border travelers. The measure allows people from either country to visit the other for 30 days without a visa, promoting a more fluid movement and economic interchange.
Cross-border travel through Xinjiang’s Altay region has spiked in the wake of the policy at Jeminay Port. The port had seen over 49,000 tourists and 12,000 vehicles by mid-July 2025, a record for this time of year. The daily crossing of the border has reached more than 830, thanks to the increasing willingness to travel back and forth between China and Kazakhstan, particularly in the summer vacation season.
Impact of the China-Kazakhstan Visa Exemption Policy
The China-Kazakhstan visa exemption policy, which came into effect earlier this year, has simplified cross-border travel, with a notable rise in tourism from both nations. According to official reports, this initiative is proving successful in driving cross-border tourism, with large groups and individual travelers taking advantage of the opportunity to explore new regions. Tour operators in Xinjiang have reported a sharp increase in travel consultations, particularly for Kazakhstan-themed packages that range from 1 to 30 days, demonstrating the growing interest in the region.
Xinjiang’s proximity to Kazakhstan, coupled with the ease of access now provided by the visa exemption, has made it an attractive destination for tourists looking to explore the cultural richness of both regions. The port has become a gateway for visitors from Kazakhstan to explore Xinjiang’s vast natural landscapes and historical sites, while also offering easy access for Chinese tourists to discover the cultural treasures of Kazakhstan.
Rising Popularity of Cross-Border Tours
The rise in tourism has not been confined to just one sector. Self-driving tours, in particular, have experienced a boom, with many tourists opting for flexible, independent travel between the two countries. Tour operators in Xinjiang have responded to this demand by expanding their offerings to cater to a wider range of travelers. This trend reflects the growing demand for customized experiences that blend local culture and international exploration.
Travel agencies have noticed a sharp rise in self-driving tours between Jeminay Port and Kazakhstan, particularly in May and June. The growth in self-guided tours demonstrates the changing preferences of travelers who now seek more freedom and flexibility in planning their itineraries. As a result, local tour companies are now offering packages that cater specifically to the needs of these travelers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Efforts to Facilitate the Surge in Tourism
In response to the surge in cross-border tourism, Jeminay Port authorities have undertaken a series of measures to ensure smooth operations and a positive experience for travelers. The Jeminay Port Entry-Exit Border Inspection Station has introduced several optimizations to manage the increased flow of tourists effectively. These include forecasting travel waves, which helps to ensure that peak travel times are managed more efficiently, and providing clear procedural guides for travelers to follow.
Furthermore, the border inspection station has implemented seasonal staffing adjustments to cope with the influx of visitors during peak months. Special “green channels” have been established for vulnerable groups, allowing for expedited processing to minimize waiting times and improve the overall experience for travelers.
Cultural Tourism Development and Future Plans
Looking ahead, the cultural tourism authorities in Xinjiang are focusing on developing combined “domestic plus international” travel products. These products aim to highlight Xinjiang’s natural beauty while offering easy access to neighboring destinations like Kazakhstan. The integration of domestic and international travel experiences will help create a more cohesive and attractive tourism package, drawing visitors from both within China and beyond.
The growth of cross-border tourism between China and Kazakhstan is not only beneficial for the tourism sector but is also expected to have significant positive impacts on the local economy. The increased number of tourists brings business opportunities to local hotels, restaurants, and attractions, boosting the region’s economy and fostering greater cultural exchange between the two nations.
Optimizing Travel Infrastructure for Continued Growth
The rapid growth in tourism has placed pressure on local infrastructure, but efforts are underway to address these challenges. Authorities have invested in improving transportation facilities, including enhancing roadways and transit systems that connect Jeminay Port to key tourist destinations. These improvements will help ensure that the region can accommodate growing visitor numbers in the future while maintaining high standards of service.
Local authorities are also working to promote the region’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient temples, traditional markets, and scenic landscapes, as part of their broader strategy to position Xinjiang as a major destination for international tourists. This approach aligns with the national goal of boosting tourism and fostering cultural diplomacy, both of which are critical for the long-term success of the sector.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Cross-Border Tourism
Rapidly rising tourist flows at Jeminay Port are proof of the increasing popularity of cross-border travel between China and Kazakhstan. The launching of the 30-day mutual visa waiver scheme has contributed significantly to this trend, and ongoing efforts to improve tourism-related infrastructure in the region will continue to make the area more appealing as a destination. As travel culture keeps developing, the future of tourism between Xinjiang and Kazakhstan will have an encouraging prospect and broaden with ever deeper cultural exchanges.
References: China National Tourism Administration, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Kazakhstan Ministry of Culture and Sports
