MALAYSIA has once again solidified its status as the premier destination for Muslim travelers, securing its ninth consecutive top spot in the Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024.
The GMTI 2024 report, further recognized Malaysia’s excellence by awarding it the “Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)” for the second consecutive time at the Halal in Travel Awards 2024.
These accolades reflect Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to catering to the needs of Muslim travelers. Last year, the country generated RM14.70 billion in revenue from Muslim tourism.
All this is attributed to the country’s existing infrastructure, including prayer rooms, halal food options, and water-friendly restrooms, as key factors contributing to its popularity among Muslim travelers.
Malaysia’s appeal lies in its accessibility to halal food, faith-related facilities, stunning beaches, diverse cultures, and exceptional shopping experiences. Its consistent top ranking in the GMTI underscores its efforts to create a welcoming environment for Muslim travelers.
The GMTI report forecasts significant growth in the Muslim travel market, predicting an increase of 230 million Muslim travelers by 2028, compared to 160 million in 2019. This year, the market is expected to see substantial growth, with global international arrivals potentially reaching 168 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
-BTS Media