Philippines Ranked Among Best Muslim-Friendly Destinations

The Philippines has solidified its position as one of the world’s most welcoming destinations for Muslim travelers, climbing four spots to 8th place among non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries in the prestigious 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). This annual report, published by Mastercard and CrescentRating, highlights destinations that excel in catering to the needs of Muslim tourists. The Philippines’ rise from 12th place in 2024 underscores its rapid progress in developing halal-friendly tourism infrastructure and services.

A Strategic Leap in Global Rankings

The GMTI evaluates destinations based on four key criteria:

1. Accessibility – Ease of travel, visa policies, and flight connectivity

2. Communication – Availability of Islamic information and English/Arabic signage

3. Environment – Muslim-friendly facilities, prayer spaces, and halal dining

4. Services – Accommodations, tours, and hospitality tailored to Muslim needs

With an improved GMTI score of 53 (up from 47 in 2024), the Philippines has outperformed several established destinations, thanks to targeted government initiatives and private-sector partnerships.

Government Commitment to Inclusive Tourism

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco hailed the ranking as a milestone in the country’s efforts to become a top-tier halal-friendly destination.

“This recognition reflects our dedication to creating a tourism environment where Muslim travelers feel respected and valued,” Frasco stated. “From halal-certified dining to prayer facilities, we are ensuring that the Philippines is not just a scenic paradise but also a destination that upholds religious and cultural sensitivity.”

The DOT’s National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028 has prioritized Muslim-friendly tourism through:

• Updated guidelines for halal accommodations (Memorandum Circular 2024-003)

• Certification programs for hotels, restaurants, and tour operators

• Training workshops for tourism workers on Islamic customs and halal standards

• Collaborations with halal certification bodies to expand food and service options

Why the Philippines Stands Out

CrescentRating and HalalTrip CEO Fazal Bahardeen noted the Philippines’ remarkable progress in his foreword to the GMTI 2025 report.

“The Philippines, along with Hong Kong and Taiwan, has shown that non-OIC destinations can excel in Muslim-friendly tourism through genuine commitment,” Bahardeen said. “Their efforts in halal dining, prayer facilities, and cultural awareness set a benchmark for others to follow.”

Key Halal Tourism Initiatives

1. Muslim-Friendly Accommodations

The Philippines has seen a surge in halal-certified hotels, with Megaworld Hotels & Resorts leading the way. All 13 of its properties have been recognized as 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments (MFAEs), earning the chain the “Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain of the Year” award at the 2025 Halal in Travel Awards in Singapore.

Features include:

• Qibla direction markers in every room

• Prayer mats and copies of the Quran upon request

• Halal-certified kitchens and breakfast menus

• Designated prayer rooms (separate for men and women)

• Gender-segregated spa and wellness facilities

2. Halal Dining Expansion

Recognizing that food is a major concern for Muslim travelers, the DOT has partnered with restaurants, resorts, and food providers to increase halal-certified options. Popular destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Metro Manila now feature halal eateries, with some establishments offering Arabic, Malay, and Filipino halal cuisine.

3. Prayer Facilities in Tourist Spots

Major attractions, including Rizal Park, SM Malls, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport, now have dedicated prayer rooms. The DOT is also working with local governments to install salah (prayer) spaces in key tourism areas.

4. Marhaba Boracay: A Pioneering Muslim-Friendly Zone

One of the most ambitious projects is Marhaba Boracay, a dedicated Muslim-friendly cove featuring:

• Halal-certified resorts

• Beachfront prayer areas

• Modest swimwear rental shops

• Cultural sensitivity training for staff

This initiative has made Boracay a top choice for Muslim families seeking both luxury and faith-friendly amenities.

5. SALAAM: The Halal Tourism & Trade Expo

Launched in 2024, SALAAM has become the Philippines’ premier halal tourism event, connecting businesses with international halal markets. The expo showcases:

• Halal food and beverage producers

• Muslim-friendly travel agencies

• Islamic fashion and modest wear brands

The Growing Global Muslim Travel Market

The GMTI report highlights a booming Muslim travel sector, with 176 million Muslim tourists in 2024—a number expected to reach 245 million by 2030. Spending by Muslim travelers is projected to hit $230 billion, making this demographic a key driver of global tourism growth.

Challenges and Future Plans

While the Philippines has made significant strides, challenges remain, including:

• Expanding halal certification beyond major cities

• Increasing awareness among local businesses

• Improving flight connectivity from Middle Eastern countries

To address these, the DOT plans to:

• Launch a nationwide halal tourism campaign

• Partner with airlines for direct flights from Dubai, Riyadh, and Kuala Lumpur

• Develop more Muslim-friendly tour packages

A Model for Faith-Inclusive Tourism

The Philippines’ rise in the GMTI rankings is more than just a ranking—it’s a testament to the country’s commitment to diversity and hospitality. By blending stunning natural attractions with thoughtful, faith-sensitive services, the Philippines is redefining what it means to be a truly welcoming destination.

As Secretary Frasco puts it: “We want every traveler, regardless of faith, to experience the beauty of the Philippines while feeling at home. This is the future of global tourism—inclusive, respectful, and unforgettable.”