Halal travel market set for rapid growth as Muslim arrivals surge, Mastercard-CrescentRating report shows

MIDDLE EAST – The recently released 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) reveals that international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.

This upward trajectory is projected to continue, with arrivals expected to reach 245 million by 2030.

Alongside this growth, total travel spending by Muslim travelers is forecast to hit US$230 billion, underscoring the substantial economic impact of this vibrant and expanding market.

The 10th edition of the GMTI highlights the transformative evolution of Halal travel over the past decade.

It emphasizes how destinations worldwide are adapting to meet the expectations of Muslim travelers by offering Halal-certified dining, prayer facilities, alcohol-free environments, and gender-segregated amenities.

These features have become essential in attracting and retaining Muslim visitors seeking authentic and comfortable experiences aligned with their faith.

Key consumer trends shaping the sector include the rise of digital tools that facilitate seamless Halal journeys, a growing number of solo Muslim travelers seeking personalized itineraries, and increasing demand for inclusive spaces designed with women’s safety and comfort in mind.

Additionally, there is a notable interest in digital detox retreats inspired by Islamic principles of mindfulness and balance.

Leading Muslim-friendly destinations continue to set benchmarks in this space.

Malaysia maintains its position as the top destination among Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries, while Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates share second place, each offering a blend of rich cultural heritage and modern amenities.

Indonesia also ranks prominently, supported by its deep cultural appeal.

In the non-OIC category, Singapore leads, recognized for its inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, with emerging destinations like Thailand, the Philippines, and Hong Kong gaining traction through investments in Halal infrastructure and services.

The GMTI report serves as a vital resource for travel industry stakeholders, urging them to embrace purpose-driven strategies, digital innovation, and inclusivity to capture the growing Muslim travel market.

As this segment continues to expand, destinations that prioritize authentic, faith-aligned experiences stand to benefit from increased visitation and spending.

With Muslim travelers representing one of the fastest-growing segments in global tourism, the insights from the Mastercard-CrescentRating GMTI 2025 underscore the need for ongoing adaptation and innovation.

The market’s economic potential and cultural significance position Halal travel as a key driver shaping the future of the global hospitality and tourism industry.

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