Global Muslim Travel Index 2025 Reports 25% Surge in Muslim International Arrivals, Forecasts US$230 Billion in Travel Spend by 2030

The 2025 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) has revealed a significant 25% year-on-year increase in international Muslim travel, with 176 million arrivals recorded in 2024. This upward trend is projected to continue, reaching 245 million Muslim travellers by 2030 and generating an estimated US$230 billion in travel expenditure.

Now in its landmark 10th edition, the GMTI highlights shifting consumer behaviours and emerging trends shaping the global Halal travel landscape. The report identifies five key trends:

Smart Travel Tools: Muslim travellers are embracing digital platforms and apps that offer seamless and faith-aligned experiences.

Female-Led Growth: Women are driving demand for safer, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed travel environments.

Halal-Ready Facilities: Amenities such as alcohol-free options, prayer spaces, and gender-segregated services are now considered essential.

Solo Travel: A growing number of young Muslims are pursuing personalised solo journeys.

Mindful Escapes: Digital detox experiences that align with Islamic values are rising in popularity.

Among Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) destinations, Malaysia maintained its top position, with Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates sharing second place. In the non-OIC category, Singapore retained the lead, followed by the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.

Hong Kong emerged as the fastest-rising non-OIC destination, earning the title of “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year”. The city now features 61 CrescentRating-accredited hotels and 153 Halal-certified restaurants.

Taiwan also secured a top-five spot in the non-OIC rankings, boasting more than 230 Halal-certified establishments, which further cements its appeal to Muslim travellers.