Hong Kong, most promising muslim-friendly destination in 2025

18-09-25

Hong Kong has established itself as a global benchmark for Muslim tourism thanks to a remarkable rise in its rating as a “friendly” destination in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025, prepared by CrescentRating and Mastercard. This year, the city climbed to third place among destinations outside the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (non-OIC) and was honored as the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year,” a recognition of its increasing efforts to meet the needs of Muslim travelers.

This progress is far more than symbolic. Hong Kong recorded the largest score increase among all non-OIC destinations assessed in the GMTI 2025, reflecting concrete policies and investments in infrastructure, services, and certifications that facilitate stays for those observing practices such as access to halal food, prayer spaces, or services adapted to their faith.

Among the most notable achievements is that 61 hotels have already received CrescentRating accreditations for meeting Muslim-friendly standards. These include services such as halal meals, facilities or indicators showing the direction of Mecca (Qibla), and dedicated prayer amenities. Likewise, more than 150 restaurants are certified halal or have adapted to be Muslim-friendly, greatly expanding reliable dining options for travelers.

In addition, transport facilities and major public tourist spaces have significantly improved their offerings: airport terminals now include prayer rooms and ablution facilities, and large convention centers such as AsiaWorld-Expo and other venues have incorporated services that facilitate visits from Muslim groups or those with specific religious requirements.

Institutional support has been key to this transformation. The Government of Hong Kong, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and private-sector partners, has strengthened promotional campaigns targeting Muslim markets, encouraged halal certification, and developed awareness and training programs to standardize services. The strategy also includes specific marketing actions in Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern markets, both of which show strong growth potential in Muslim travel.

Despite these advances, industry experts point out remaining challenges. Some establishments still lack dedicated religious facilities, the quality and recognition of certifications may vary, and in peripheral areas of the city, access to halal food or Muslim-friendly services is less consistent. Nevertheless, the course taken demonstrates a clear commitment to comprehensive improvement—aimed not only at attracting tourism but at ensuring that the experience is respectful, comfortable, and meaningful for travelers of faith.

Recognition as the most promising destination for Muslim travelers places Hong Kong in a strategic position within contemporary global tourism. It is not only about rankings or certifying restaurants and hotels, but about building a cultural and service offering that understands and respects the needs of religious diversity. For Muslim visitors, this achievement represents renewed confidence: the ability to enjoy trips with greater peace of mind, wider choices, reliable services, and a welcoming environment.

Hong Kong’s success in GMTI 2025 is far more than a title. It is a visible transformation in tourism policies, the business landscape, and infrastructure, with a direct impact on how Muslim travelers perceive and choose their destinations. While there is still room for improvement, this change positions the city as a model of inclusive tourism, capable of blending modernity, hospitality, and respect for religious diversity.

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