Malaysia Retains Top Spot as Most Muslim-Friendly Destination for 11th Consecutive Year, UAE Ranks Sixth
Malaysia has secured its position as the most Muslim-friendly destination for the 11th consecutive year, achieving a remarkable score of 83 in the latest Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) released on July 6, 2026. This consistent ranking underscores Malaysia’s commitment to catering to Muslim travelers, making it a standout choice among global destinations. The competition remains fierce, with other countries striving to enhance their appeal to Muslim tourists.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has earned the sixth position in the GMTI, scoring 75. This ranking highlights the UAE’s robust halal tourism infrastructure and effective marketing strategies aimed at Muslim travelers. The GMTI evaluates 150 destinations, collectively representing over 98% of the global Muslim travel market.
Rankings of Muslim-Friendly Destinations
In the GMTI 2026, Malaysia leads the rankings, followed by Indonesia in second place with a score of 66, and Saudi Arabia in third with a score of 79. Türkiye and Qatar occupy the fourth and fifth positions, scoring 65 and 76, respectively. The UAE’s sixth place is notable, especially considering its proximity to other Gulf nations and established Muslim-majority tourism destinations. Bahrain follows closely in seventh place with a score of 74.
UAE’s Strengths in Halal Tourism
The GMTI assesses destinations based on the Access, Communications, Environment, and Services (ACES) framework. The UAE achieved a perfect score of 100 in the availability of halal dining and prayer facilities, which are essential for Muslim travelers. The high density of mosques across the seven emirates ensures that halal food is widely accessible in various restaurant categories. Additionally, prayer rooms are conveniently located in airports, malls, and public spaces, a feature not commonly found in non-Muslim-majority countries.
The UAE’s connectivity, characterized by efficient land and air transport, modern airports, and streamlined visa policies, further enhances its attractiveness as a travel destination. The country has also emerged as a leader in tourist services, offering multilingual staff, comprehensive travel guides, and user-friendly signage.
Timing and Market Trends
The GMTI 2026 report arrives at a pivotal moment for the travel industry. Despite global uncertainties, the demand for travel among Muslim populations remains strong. However, changing preferences are evident, with travelers increasingly opting for nearby and stable destinations due to rising fuel prices and geopolitical tensions.
This shift towards regional travel is beneficial for the UAE, strategically located at the heart of the Muslim world. With a flight time of 4-6 hours from many Muslim-majority countries, the UAE offers convenient access, reducing the need for lengthy transit times.
The Role of Technology in Travel
A significant finding from the GMTI 2026 is the growing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) tools among travelers. Approximately 80% of global travelers now utilize AI for travel planning, which influences how they discover and assess destinations. AI platforms can guide users to halal food options, prayer areas, and transportation, providing personalized recommendations.
However, the report warns that destinations failing to digitize their offerings risk being excluded from AI-driven recommendation systems. The UAE has invested heavily in smart city infrastructure, digital tourist services, and AI-enhanced transport networks, positioning itself well for this technological transition. To maintain its competitive edge, the UAE must ensure that its halal services are easily accessible and verifiable online.
The Economic Impact of Muslim Travel
In 2026, international Muslim visitors are projected to spend approximately USD 310 billion, with an estimated 208 million travelers, an increase from 196 million in 2025. This figure is expected to rise to 262 million by 2030, highlighting a lucrative market for destinations like the UAE.
Source: timesofdubai.ae
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Published on 2026-07-07 12:00:00 • By the Editorial Desk
