World Islamic Tourism Conference 2024 To be Held in Malaysia in September

The World Islamic Tourism Conference 2024 is making its highly anticipated return to Kuala Lumpur this September 12-13. Organized by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), this premier event highlights the rapid growth and dynamic potential of the Islamic tourism sector. With over 500 industry leaders in attendance, the conference will focus on the theme “Forging Connections,” delving into the latest trends, innovations, and opportunities in Muslim-friendly travel. Join us to explore how the industry is evolving and to network with key players shaping the future of Islamic tourism.

The Tourism Conference 2024

As the global Muslim population surpasses 2 billion, Malaysia and the ITC continue to lead the expansion of Islamic tourism. The conference will spotlight emerging trends and innovative strategies within the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) sector, focusing on both established and developing Muslim markets.

Conference Theme: Forging Connections

The theme “Forging Connections” highlights the importance of linking destinations to promote mutual understanding, economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and sustainability. The conference will cover these themes across four critical tracks:

• Understanding Muslim Tourists: This track will explore the backgrounds, motivations, and faith-based needs of Muslim travelers. It will examine how digital spaces influence travel decisions and the rising role of Muslim women in tourism.
• Muslim-Friendly Travel and Community: Discussions will focus on standards and certifications, community engagement, and integrating sustainable practices aligned with Islamic principles. Emphasis will be placed on authentic Halal culinary experiences.
• Growth and Opportunity: This track will highlight Malaysia’s role as an Umrah Hub, the promotion of Islamic heritage sites, and inspiring entrepreneurial stories within the Muslim-friendly tourism sector.
• Inclusivity: This segment will analyze marketing strategies targeting Muslim consumers in non-Muslim-majority countries, the impact of online Islamic finance platforms, and the growth potential of inclusive financial solutions for Muslim tourists.

Nizran Noordin, Director-General of ITC, emphasizes the importance of the conference, noting Malaysia’s top-ranking status as a Muslim-Friendly Destination for nine consecutive years in the Global Muslim Travel Index Report. He invites Malaysians, tourism industry leaders, stakeholders, and practitioners to engage in this expansive sector, valued at approximately USD 225 billion.

The conference welcomes a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, national tourism organizations, travel and tour operators, hoteliers, airline companies, and digital developers.

Established in 2009, ITC is committed to advancing Malaysia’s Islamic tourism ecosystem by enhancing the MFTH framework. Through initiatives like the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) and the Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guide (MFTG), ITC has solidified its position as a trusted leader in the industry.

The World Islamic Tourism Conference 2024 is set to be a landmark event in redefining the future of Muslim-friendly travel. By bringing together industry leaders, innovative thinkers, and key stakeholders, this conference will drive economic growth, enhance cultural exchange, and promote sustainable development within the Islamic tourism sector. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of shaping the next era of Islamic tourism, where new trends and strategies will be unveiled to support and expand the sector’s global impact.