Hong Kong has made significant strides in becoming a leading non-OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) destination for Muslim travelers, ranking third in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025. The city has invested heavily in Muslim-friendly infrastructure, boasting 61 accredited hotels and 153 Halal-certified restaurants. This progress earned Hong Kong the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year award, highlighting its impressive 10-point improvement in the GMTI score—the largest jump among non-OIC destinations.
The report, compiled by Singaporean firm CrescentRating in collaboration with Mastercard, ranks destinations based on their Muslim-friendliness using various parameters, including the availability of Muslim-friendly facilities in hotels, Halal restaurants, and nearby mosques. In this year’s rankings, Malaysia retains its position as the “Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year,” followed by Singapore, which received the same title in the Non-OIC category. The full report can be read below.
Government Initiatives and Competitive Landscape
The Hong Kong government is actively driving initiatives to enhance its appeal to Muslim travelers, in line with efforts seen in Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Thailand. In 2024, Hong Kong launched a Muslim-Friendly tourism initiative in partnership with CrescentRating. Chief Executive John Lee stated:
“With clear policies, we hope to make Hong Kong a Muslim-friendly destination. We want everyone that comes to Hong Kong to feel appreciated and respected.”
This commitment reflects a broader trend where non-OIC destinations like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan are emerging as serious contenders in the Muslim travel market, challenging the traditional advantages held by OIC nations.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Amenities
Recent enhancements in transport infrastructure, including efficient urban transport systems and integrated networks, have made Hong Kong more accessible. The city prioritizes basic utilities such as reliable internet, clean sanitation, and safe drinking water, all crucial for a comfortable travel experience.
Hong Kong hotels are increasingly catering to Muslim guests. Major hotels like Island Shangri-La and Grand Hyatt Hong Kong have made notable improvements, offering amenities such as prayer rugs, Qibla direction markers, and Halal dining options, including hosting Iftar buffets during Ramadan.
Additionally, Hong Kong International Airport features prayer rooms, ablution (wudu) areas, and Halal-certified food outlets, ensuring a welcoming experience from the moment visitors arrive.
MICE Sector Adaptation
The city’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) venues are enhancing their offerings with Muslim-friendly facilities. Notable venues like AsiaWorld Expo and the Wan Chai Exhibition Centre have incorporated prayer rooms and Halal catering, ensuring that Muslim business travelers are well accommodated.
Expert Insights
Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of CrescentRating, highlighted the rising interest in Muslim travel:
“In recent years, it has been incredibly encouraging to see destinations, both within and beyond the OIC, make significant strides in embracing the Muslim travel market. This is a clear testament to the growing recognition of this vital travel segment.”
With its commitment to inclusivity and strategic investments in Muslim-friendly services, Hong Kong is poised to become a key destination for Muslim travelers, showcasing a successful model for non-OIC nations in the global travel landscape.