TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - For Muslim travelers, there are many factors to consider before deciding to vacation in a certain country. Ease of worship and finding halal food are factors that can enhance comfort during vacation.
In this regard, Muslim-majority countries often become the main tourist destinations. However, some countries have an advantage in ensuring comfort for Muslim travelers compared to others.
The Global Muslim Travel Index, an annual report resulting from collaboration between Mastercard and CrescentRating, has revealed the top Muslim-friendly countries for Muslim travelers worldwide. Curious about which countries made the list? Refer to the complete list below as reported by Global Muslim Travel Index 2024 along with additional information from other sources.
List of Top Muslim-Friendly Countries in the World according to Global Muslim Travel Index 2024
Global Muslim Travel Index is an annual report that compares destinations in the Muslim travel market. This report analyzes more than 100 destinations worldwide and assesses their readiness to serve Muslim travelers.
Here is the list of the top 10 Muslim-friendly countries to visit in the world:
1. Indonesia (GMTI Score: 76)
Indonesia still holds the top position as the best Muslim-friendly country destination according to the Global Muslim Travel Index 2024. It is important to note that Indonesia, a Southeast Asian country, is not entirely a Muslim country, but the majority of its population is Muslim, and Indonesia itself is one of the countries with the largest Muslim population in the world.
What keeps Indonesia at the top is, of course, its ability to offer endless Muslim-friendly travel options. Finding halal food is not a difficult matter in Indonesia. Facilities for worship, such as musallas, are always available in shopping centers, airports, train stations, and other places.
2. Malaysia (GMTI Score: 76)
Ranked the same as Indonesia, Malaysia has long been known as a Muslim-friendly tourist destination. The population of Malaysia is also as heterogeneous as Indonesia, but the majority of its population adheres to Islam.
Not much different from Indonesia, Malaysia receives high ratings due to its extensive Muslim-friendly tourism infrastructure and services. This ASEAN country offers a wide range of halal dining options throughout the nation. Additionally, mosques, as well as prayer rooms in public, commercial, and transportation centers, are easily found.
3. Saudi Arabia (GMTI Score: 74)
For Muslims around the world, Saudi Arabia is a primary spiritual destination as it is home to the two holy cities, Mecca and Medina, which are destinations for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. This Arab Peninsula country is always improving its tourism infrastructure and services, especially for religious visits.
4. Turkey (GMTI Score: 73)
Turkey is a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western cultures with a strong Islamic heritage. Istanbul presents magnificent mosque architecture such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Not to forget Cappadocia, a dream destination for most travelers, offering unique landscapes and hot air balloon experiences.
Turkish cuisine is also very suitable for Muslims, with almost all of its menus based on halal ingredients. The country is also friendly to tourists wearing Islamic attire.
5. United Arab Emirates (GMTI Score: 72)
The next best Muslim-friendly country to visit is the United Arab Emirates, with a GMTI score reaching 72. This Muslim country not only offers a Muslim-friendly experience but also a luxurious one. As reported by Traveloka, there are many luxury resorts, cultural attractions, and modern infrastructure that guarantee an enjoyable and halal stay.
6. Qatar (GMTI Score: 71)
Not only known as one of the richest countries in the world, Qatar should not be overlooked as one of the best Muslim-friendly destinations. As mentioned by Traveloka, its capital, Doha, is home to one of the world's significant artificial islands, The Pearl Qatar. Its local cuisine is also delightful; indulge your taste buds with dishes like saloona and machboos rice.
7. Iran (GMTI Score: 67)
Iran's involvement in warfare and coercive steps has not given it a positive image in international politics. However, according to the Global Muslim Travel Index, this Arab country is one of the best Muslim-friendly countries to visit.
With a score of 67, this is likely due to Iran's status as a Muslim country, making it easy for travelers to find halal food in restaurants or hotels. Additionally, as reported by Tehran Times, Iran is also rich in history and Islamic heritage reflected in its buildings, from mosques to museums and other historical structures.
8. Jordan (GMTI Score: 67)
Since Jordan is a country with a Muslim-majority population, it is not a big problem for Muslim travelers to find halal food or places for worship. However, people hesitate to visit this Middle Eastern country due to its location in a conflict area. Is Jordan safe to visit?
According to Lonely Planet, Jordan is open to tourists and safe to visit. In fact, according to Gallup's Law and Order report for 2022, the country is ranked among the top 10 safest countries for solo travel, even at night.
9. Brunei Darussalam (GMTI Score: 66)
As the only Malay Islamic monarchy in the world, Brunei Darussalam is a Muslim-friendly destination, of course, due to its status. The Oxford Business Group also adds that safety and ease of access to finding halal cuisine are the main points that solidify Brunei Darussalam's position in this list.
10. Oman (GMTI Score: 66)
Last but not least, Oman is considered one of the best Muslim-friendly destinations due to its good appearance in terms of tourist safety, airport facilities, halal dining options, and ease of finding places for worship, as reported by Times of Oman.
Not only that, the country also pampers tourists with stunning desert panoramas and various exciting outdoor activities, such as swimming with whale sharks in the Damaniyat Islands.
Editor's Choice: The Largest Muslim Country by Population, Is Indonesia on the List?
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