Latest news with #CrescentRating
Ya Biladi
4 days ago
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Tourism : Africa attracts Muslim tavelers, France loses ground
France is no longer among the most attractive destinations for Muslim travelers, according to the 2025 edition of the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). Developed by CrescentRating in partnership with Mastercard, this benchmark ranking has assessed the world's most «Muslim-friendly» tourist destinations annually since 2015. The latest report, which now includes 153 countries, shows a notable decline in the appeal of several Western destinations. Countries such as France, Switzerland, Belgium, and even the United States are absent from this year's ranking. Meanwhile, nations like Kenya, New Zealand, and Lebanon are gaining prominence. The Asia-Pacific and African regions continue to rise in popularity. Malaysia, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia remain firmly at the top of the list. In 2024, Muslim tourists took nearly 176 million trips, an increase of over 25% compared to the previous year. By 2030, that number is expected to grow to 245 million, representing a market valued at $230 billion.
Arab News
22-06-2025
- Business
- Arab News
New report reveals trends shaping future of halal travel
As awareness of Muslim travelers' needs grows, halal travel is increasingly shaping how destinations design and deliver experiences. According to the newly released 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index, international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 — up 25 percent from 2023 — and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, total travel spending is expected to reach $230 billion, highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market. To stay competitive, travel and tourism stakeholders must adapt to the evolving needs of Muslim travelers, prioritizing purpose, inclusivity, and digital innovation. Key consumer trends impacting halal travel • Smart apps: Muslim travelers are embracing digital tools that offer seamless access to faith-aligned services and personalized experiences. • The modern female Muslim traveler: Women are shaping the halal travel sector in powerful ways, driving demand for safer, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed spaces. • Muslim-friendly facilities: Destinations that offer alcohol-free environments, halal-certified dining, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated pools and spas are becoming essential. • Solo travel surge: Younger Muslim travelers are embracing solo adventures, favoring autonomy and personalized itineraries. • Digital detox retreats: Inspired by Islamic values of mindfulness and balance, many travelers are seeking tech-free escapes rooted in nature and spirituality. Among OIC destinations, Malaysia retains the top spot, recognized for its accessible halal-friendly services and infrastructure. Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE share the second spot, each offering a strong combination of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and dedicated efforts to enhance the Muslim travel experience. Indonesia also ranks highly, supported by its rich cultural appeal. Other notable destinations in the Gulf region include Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, all of which continue to strengthen their offerings for Muslim travelers. Among non-OIC destinations, Singapore remains the leader — recognized for its emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. Thailand and the Philippines are steadily emerging as rising Muslim-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. Thailand offers warm hospitality and a growing range of halal-certified services, while the Philippines is enhancing its capacity to serve Muslim travelers through better halal food access and Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites.
GMA Network
19-06-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
PH rises as Muslim-friendly destination in 2025 global index
This photo taken on June 17, 2020 shows the white beach of Boracay Island, Aklan. Ernesto Cruz/ AFP The Philippines has gained recognition as a welcoming country for Muslim travelers, climbing to 8th place in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025 among destination that are not part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The country improved its score to 53 in this year's GMTI, up 7 points compared to its 2024 performance when it ranked 12th. The report, jointly produced by Mastercard and CrescentRating, was released this June and takes note of the country's ongoing efforts to build an inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism sector. The Philippines is among non-OIC destinations that were described as making "strong gains" this year, along with Taiwan, Thailand, Ireland, and Australia. In the non-OIC tier, Singapore vaulted to the top spot with a score of 71, jumping 5 spots compared to last year. The GMTI 2025 report said, "The Philippines is steadily positioning itself as a Muslim-friendly destination by strengthening its capacity to welcome Muslim travelers. Efforts focus on improving accessibility to Halal food and integrating Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites." The report also noted that Philippine tourism authorities have launched initiatives to expand Halal-certified dining and accommodations. Stakeholders, meanwhile, have been educated on Muslim visitors' needs. "With these efforts and the promotion of its diverse culture and natural beauty, the Philippines is emerging as an appealing destination for Muslim travelers in Southeast Asia," the report said. Inclusivity and diversity Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the improved ranking, saying it affirms the government's efforts to promote inclusivity and expand the reach of Philippine tourism. "This recognition for the Philippines by the Global Muslim Travel Index 2025 affirms our steady commitment to introduce the Philippines as a halal and Muslim-friendly destination, as well as transforming our leading and emerging tourist spots to become those that practice inclusivity and diversity regardless of race and faith," Frasco said. "By prioritizing halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, we not only demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity but also open up opportunities to attract more Muslim travelers from around the world, while expanding markets for our tourism stakeholders and creating more livelihood and employment for our fellow Filipinos," she added. CrescentRating CEO Fazal Bahardeen said the "remarkable progress" of the Philippines, alongside Hong Kong and Taiwan, demonstrate a "genuine commitment to building inclusive and welcoming tourism ecosystems." International Muslim tourist arrivals were reported to have reached 176 million in 2024, with forecasts expecting the number to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, global Muslim travel spending is projected to hit $230 billion, underscoring the sector's economic importance. Part of the Department of Tourism's inclusivity strategy under its National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 is the implementation of updated guidelines for the operations and recognition of Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments. The DOT has launched various programs to support Muslim-friendly tourism, including: SALAAM: The Halal Tourism and Trade Expo Marhaba Boracay–the first dedicated Muslim-friendly beach cove in Boracay Island Awareness campaigns and training sessions for tourism stakeholders Increased promotion of Halal-certified restaurants and Muslim-friendly facilities The GMTI report also noted the the expansion of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, which the DOT said became the first hotel group in the Philippines to be fully recognized as 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments across all 13 of its properties. Megaworld's efforts were acknowledged at the Halal in Travel Awards 2025 in Singapore, where it was named "Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain of the Year." The report also highlighted the amenities offered at Megaworld properties, such as Qibla direction markers, prayer rugs upon request, water-friendly restrooms, Halal-certified food offerings, designated prayer spaces, and gender-separated spa areas. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index reveals trends shaping the future of Halal travel
Dubai, UAE – As awareness of Muslim travelers' needs grows, Halal travel is increasingly shaping how destinations design and deliver experiences. According to the newly released 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 – up 25% from 2023 – and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion, highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market. To stay competitive, travel and tourism stakeholders must adapt to the evolving needs of Muslim travelers, prioritizing purpose, inclusivity, and digital innovation. The 10th edition of the GMTI identifies the key trends and destination leaders shaping the future of Halal-friendly travel. Key Consumer Trends Impacting Halal Travel GMTI 2025 highlights five important trends shaping Muslim travel preferences today: Smart Apps for Halal Journeys: Muslim travelers are embracing digital tools that offer seamless access to faith-aligned services and personalized experiences. The Modern Female Muslim Traveler: Women are shaping the Halal travel sector in powerful ways, driving demand for safer, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed spaces. Muslim-friendly facilities: Destinations that offer alcohol-free environments, Halal-certified dining, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated pools and spas are becoming essential. Solo Travel Surge: Younger Muslim travelers are embracing solo adventures, favoring autonomy and personalized itineraries. Digital Detox Retreats: Inspired by Islamic values of mindfulness and balance, many travelers are seeking tech-free escapes rooted in nature and spirituality. Destinations Leading the Way in Muslim-Friendly Travel The GMTI 2025 highlights leading destinations around the world that are setting benchmarks in Muslim-friendly travel. Among OIC destinations, Malaysia retains the top spot, recognized for its accessible Halal-friendly services and infrastructure. Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share the second spot, each offering a strong combination of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and dedicated efforts to enhance the Muslim travel experience. Indonesia also ranks highly, supported by its rich cultural appeal. Other notable destinations in the Gulf region include Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, all of which continue to strengthen their offerings for Muslim travelers. Among non-OIC destinations, Singapore remains the leader – recognized for its emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. Thailand and the Philippines are steadily emerging as rising Muslim-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. Thailand offers warm hospitality and a growing range of Halal-certified services, while the Philippines is enhancing its capacity to serve Muslim travelers through better Halal food access and Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites. In addition, Hong Kong has emerged as standout non-OIC destination, ranking third in the GMTI 2025. The city has invested significantly in Muslim-friendly infrastructure, with 61 hotels accredited by CrescentRating and 153 restaurants Halal-certified by the Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong. Hong Kong also received the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year award, part of the Global Muslim Travel Index Awards. Taiwan has also continuously positioned itself as a Muslim-friendly destination, offering a welcoming environment that respects cultural and religious diversity. Over 230 restaurants and hotels have been Halal-certified by the Chinese Muslim Association, many of which include separate kitchens to meet dietary requirements. With the global Muslim travel market entering a dynamic new growth phase, GMTI 2025 serves as a timely guide for stakeholders looking to tap into this fast-evolving landscape. Download the full GMTI 2025 report here: About CrescentRating CrescentRating is the leading authority on Halal travel and tourism. The company uses insights, industry intelligence, lifestyle, behavior and research on the needs of the Muslim traveler to deliver authoritative guidance on all aspects of Halal travel to organizations across the globe. Founded in 2008, CrescentRating services are used by every tier of the tourism industry, from government bodies and tourism agencies to hospitality service providers, to better serve the needs of the Muslim traveler. CrescentRating's products and services include rating & accreditation, research & consultancy, training, & certification (CR Academy), industry reports, Halal-In-Travel conferences, HalalChefWorld program, destination marketing and content provisioning. HalalTrip is a sister brand of CrescentRating. Website: Facebook: Twitter: LinkedIn: About Mastercard (NYSE: MA), Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we're building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential. Appendix – 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index Rankings and Awards GMTI 2025 Rank Top 10 Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Destinations GMTI 2025 Rank Top 10 Non-OIC Destinations 1 Malaysia 1 Singapore 2 Türkiye 2 United Kingdom 2 Saudi Arabia 3 Hong Kong* 2 United Arab Emirates 4 Taiwan 5 Indonesia 5 Thailand 5 Qatar 6 Ireland 7 Oman 6 Australia 7 Kuwait 8 Philippines 9 Jordan 9 Spain 9 Iran 9 Germany *Hong Kong received the Most Promising Muslim Friendly Destination of the Year, having improved their GMTI score by 10 points – the biggest jump among non-OIC destinations.
Arab Times
16-06-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Hong Kong named ‘Most Promising Muslim-friendly Destination' by GMTI 2025
HONG KONG, June 16: Hong Kong has been recognised as the third most Muslim-friendly travel destination among non-Islamic economies in the Mastercard-CrescentRating 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), marking an improvement of one position from the previous year. While the recognition is seen as a positive step, industry insiders believe there is still room to better attract Muslim visitors. The Hong Kong Tourism Board announced the ranking on Friday, along with news that the city was also awarded the title of 'Most Promising Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year.' CrescentRating, a Singapore-based consultancy specialising in the Muslim travel market, was commissioned by the Tourism Board last year to assess and rate Hong Kong's facilities in terms of Muslim-friendliness. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu expressed his satisfaction with the accolade on social media, stating that the recognition highlights Hong Kong's efforts to promote halal tourism. He noted that enhancing Muslim-friendly offerings was part of his policy agenda from the previous year. 'I am grateful for the active participation of various industries in promoting halal tourism, which has significantly enhanced our tourism offerings,' Lee said. 'The government will continue to strengthen promotional efforts to enhance Hong Kong's Muslim-friendly image and encourage more businesses to provide high-quality services.' Peter Lam Kin-ngok, chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, also welcomed the recognition. He said the Board had worked closely with the government and industry partners to position the city as a Muslim-friendly destination through accreditation, education, and promotion. 'We have also helped build closer ties with the Middle East and ASEAN countries in recent years,' Lam added. The GMTI report highlighted Hong Kong's increasing efforts to attract Muslim tourists and diversify its visitor market. Since June last year, over 60 establishments have received Muslim-friendly accreditation from CrescentRating. So far, 61 hotels in Hong Kong have been rated for their Muslim-friendliness by CrescentRating, with nine achieving the highest score of five. These include the Island Shangri-La, Dorsett Tsuen Wan, and Kerry Hotel. Ratings range from one to seven, though scores of six and seven are reserved for accommodations that meet the full range of needs for 'halal-conscious' travellers. Globally, Singapore topped the list of non-Islamic destinations, followed by the United Kingdom. Taiwan ranked fourth and Thailand fifth. Among Islamic destinations, Malaysia ranked first, followed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Indonesia. Despite Hong Kong's progress, Sharifa Leung, founder of the halal food consultancy Hani Halal, pointed out challenges that still exist in truly understanding halal practices and Muslim culture. 'Many businesses, including hotels and restaurants, lack proper staff training,' said Leung, a third-generation Muslim Hongkonger. 'They're eager to obtain certification, but often before fully grasping the reasons behind the practices.' Leung highlighted issues such as shared ablution facilities that overlook the need for gender separation, or prayer rooms with large reflective windows that contradict Islamic norms of minimal distraction during prayer. She also noted confusion in some food outlets where non-halal dishes were assumed to become halal after prayers, or Urdu script was mistaken for Arabic. 'Expanding halal food options is essential, but enhancing the overall tourist experience matters just as much,' Leung said. 'We need greater involvement of the Muslim community, cultural connection-building, and targeted events for Muslim travellers.' She emphasized that investing in professional training would ensure hospitality staff are better equipped to cater to Muslim guests and that businesses owned or managed by Muslims tend to earn greater trust from Muslim travellers.
