CrescentRating reports the Middle East as a global leader in Halal travel, driving innovation, inclusivity and sustainable hospitality experiences.
By 2030, the global Halal travel market is projected to welcome 245 million Muslim travelers, generating more than USD 230 billion. The Middle East is leading this expansion by setting global benchmarks in Muslim-friendly hospitality, inclusive experiences and digital-first service innovation. The report, authored by Fazal Bahardeen, founder and CEO of CrescentRating, highlights how regional destinations drive the next phase of Halal tourism. With Muslim arrivals reaching 176 million in 2024, a 25 percent increase from 2023, the path toward 2030 shows transformative hospitality growth. This growth reflects a powerful shift toward culturally connected, sustainable and experience-driven hospitality across the Middle East for Muslim travelers.
Regional benchmarks in Muslim-friendly hospitality
Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Türkiye are setting new global benchmarks in Muslim-friendly hospitality across the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Saudi Arabia is expanding its religious tourism infrastructure and enhancing pilgrim experiences through developments in both Makkah and Madinah. Meanwhile, the UAE is deploying smart hospitality technologies and providing seamless, efficient services tailored to modern Muslim travelers’ needs. Türkiye combines deep-rooted cultural heritage with contemporary hospitality and attracts both leisure seekers and faith-driven visitors to historic destinations. Qatar, Oman and Kuwait are advancing rapidly, introducing Halal-certified dining, prayer facilities and gender-segregated wellness experiences for Muslim travelers. Moreover, these nations are strengthening tourism strategies that meet international standards while preserving strong Islamic identity and community-focused travel values. As a result, the Middle East demonstrates global leadership in Halal tourism.
Key trends defining the next evolution of halal travel experiences
GMTI 2025 identifies five major consumer trends that are actively reshaping Halal travel experiences across the Middle East globally.
- Smart applications for Halal journeys are significantly transforming how travelers conveniently access prayer times, Halal dining options and personalized itineraries efficiently.
- Female Muslim travelers are driving notable market growth by accessing safe, inclusive and thoughtfully designed hospitality environments which are being prioritized across destinations worldwide.
- Muslim-friendly facilities including alcohol-free hotels, gender-segregated spas and Halal-certified restaurants are increasingly becoming essential standards across leading international destinations.
- The rise of solo Muslim travelers reflects growing demand for independence, self-discovery and flexible, tailored Halal travel experiences across regions.
- Wellness-focused digital detox retreats inspired by Islamic mindfulness principles are attracting travelers seeking reflection, tranquility and deeper spiritual connections with nature effectively.
Thus, by continuing investment in infrastructure, advanced technology and human capital, the region can strengthen leadership in culturally conscious tourism development efficiently.
Download the full GMTI 2025 report here
