There are many Muslim-firendly destinations around the globe that attracts millions of Muslim travelers. But in this post, I’ll be sharing the list of our most incredible Muslim holiday destinations.
I have traveled to some of them and researched extensively about each destination featured in this post that I haven’t been to. So, you can rest assured that I’m writing based on my experience as well as proper research.
This post will detail halal-friendly travel destinations comprising Muslim and non-Muslim countries. Each of these Muslim holiday destinations is known for its charming beauty and Muslim-friendly environment to cater to Muslim travelers for their dream holiday.
So, if your idea of Muslim-friendly holidays consists of cultural experiences, incredible scenery, and delicious halal food, then you’ll love this post.
First, let’s take a step back for a second and know more.
What is a Muslim holiday destination?
A Muslim holiday destination is any travel destination that meets all or some of the special needs of Muslim travelers such as offering prayer facilities, offering halal experiences, halal food, etc.
Additionally, a country may offer greater Muslim-friendly experiences in one region than another.
For example, Countries in the Middle East are known for their extraordinary Muslim-friendly hospitality. On the other hand countries in Europe or Southeast Asia are supposed to offer a balanced Muslim-friendly environment with some core halal amenities. In both cases, a Muslim traveler himself/herself is responsible for taking care of their experience depending on his/her requirements and personal preferences.
While Muslim travelers’ needs vary as people have diverse preferences, there are usually a few common requirements.
What should you expect from a halal holiday destination?
Discover below the three essential needs of halal-conscious travelers when seeking a halal holiday destination.
Prayer facilities
Easy access to prayer facilities is among the most important requirements for halal vacations. Most importantly, the availability of a mosque within the vicinity of their accommodation. These prayer facilities can be prayer rooms in malls, airports, or museums.
Although praying in their hotel rooms may suffice for some, most Muslim travelers look forward to visiting mosques in different countries. It’s always better to look for a place to stay where a Masjid or Islamic cultural center is located.
As a Muslim traveler, I like seeing and visiting mosques abroad that have intricate designs and architecture before looking for any other experience. Keep in mind that praying in a Masjid has significance over praying at home or hotel, also knowing about mosques in each holiday destination might make you more interested in exploring Islamic history and culture.
Therefore, destinations with mosques near tourist attractions and hotels are always great.
Halal food
According to CrescentRating in their recent survey, halal food is the most important requirement for Muslim travelers when they are abroad. You should always look for halal restaurants with easy access before booking your accommodation.
I know that it is one of the major requirements for me as well as all Muslim travelers alike.
Finding certified halal restaurants and hotels that serve halal food makes the trip much more convenient.
This is something you have to look for especially if you’re traveling to a non-Muslim country and want to try the local dishes, as it can typically be hard to find halal places to eat.
Be aware of Islamophobia
Unfortunately, it’s today’s harsh reality. Nobody is to blame, but there are some places where many stereotypes and Islamophobia are found. Certainly, we have reached a time when Muslim travelers need to be aware of this in almost every travel destination they visit.
Whether it’s the safest Muslim countries to visit or countries that lack Islamophobia, we’re looking for a place to enjoy our trip without worry at the end.
Particularly for Muslim women travelers, this should be a concern before planning any trip, along with destinations that have no hijab or niqab ba n for women travelers or any other restrictions on the Muslim’s attire or activity. That’s why we’ve ensured the following halal holiday destinations are Muslim-friendly and have no ban on things we have mentioned above.
Let’s get started with our 10 best Muslim-friendly countries to visit.
8 best Muslim holiday destinations to visit
1. Maldives
As far as halal tourism destinations go, the Maldives may be the perfect one. As an extremely beautiful Muslim country, travelers in the Maldives are always a stone’s throw away from halal amenities.
The country comprises about 1,190 small tropical islands, divided into separate atolls. These tiny dots in the Indian Ocean offer some of the best beaches in the world.
Surrounded by water of all shades of blue, the beaches feature powder-white sand and shade from lofty palm trees.
The country boasts a diverse array of marine life, even right at the shores. Excursions such as diving or snorkeling can help you spot manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, and more!
It’s widely known that the Maldives is the most beautiful Islamic country in the world. That’s why I particularly love the Maldives because regardless of your budget, you can experience the same paradise-like scenery.
For luxury halal holidays, experience the opulent Maldives halal resorts that feature halal restaurants and beach villas with private pools. With a wide variety of properties, the Maldives is where you should visit if you’re looking for halal all-inclusive resorts.
If you’d like a more affordable alternative, stay in one of the 185 local islands. The inhabited islands offer a completely Muslim-friendly environment where halal food in the Maldives is easily accessible.
In addition to that, you get to meet the amazing locals and immerse yourself in their culture.
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Tip: As it draws millions of travelers from all around the globe you may encounter a lot of distractions such as a Mix of gender in tourist attractions. To avoid the crowd, get help from local guides who can guide you towards perfect places. You can also ensure your trip’s halal-friendly amenities by booking with Halal holiday providers. We recommend staying in remote areas for a better Islamic environment.
2. Malaysia
Malaysia is an award-winning Muslim holiday destination. With a Muslim population of roughly 60%, it’s a given that your Malaysia trip will cover all of your needs. Voted as one of the best Muslim tourist destinations, halal-conscious travelers love Malaysia, and it’s not difficult to understand why.
Let’s start with food.
It’s virtually impossible to be short of extremely delicious halal food in Malaysia. Some of the best meals I’ve ever eaten were in Penang, the food capital of Malaysia. The best was a clay-oven cooked tandoori chicken with garlic butter naan bread at Kapitan Restaurant.
What makes the country and its food special is the fact that the Malay, Indian, and Chinese locals all contribute to the food scene. These three main cultures are harmoniously intertwined and woven into the fabric of this country.
As for hotels and resorts in Malaysia, you can rest assured that the country has high standards. As a Muslim country, all accommodations are used to catering for halal-conscious travelers. You can even find many that are completely alcohol-free.
Although Malaysia is one of the cheapest Muslim countries to visit, in terms of food and transport, hotels can be relatively pricey.
A region worth mentioning in Malaysia is Langkawi. The island offers incredible beauty, rare wildlife, and spectacular activities.
Langkawi is a great option for Muslim couples on a halal honeymoon in Malaysia. That’s because the island offers the ideal romantic setting for a post-wedding getaway.
3. Turkey
Istanbul was the 8th most visited city in the world, with roughly 13.7 million tourists in 2019.
As a result, Turkey has become one of the most popular halal holiday destinations. With so much history, heritage, and culture, it’s easy to see why this vast country attracts so many Muslim travelers.
In addition, Turkey is one of the top Muslim family holiday destinations. It offers a variety of fantastic experiences for both adults and children.
Sitting between Asia and Europe, Turkey offers a unique contrast in its landscape and culture. The country is surrounded by four different seas, with each corner offering a completely different experience.
Turkey’s halal tourism industry has skyrocketed in recent years with new openings of hotels and resorts that offer privacy and an alcohol-free environment. Certain properties, such as Wome Deluxe, also provide women-only beaches.
Halal restaurants in Turkey are common, even if you do not spot a halal sign or certification. The food here is amazing, and it is one of the main highlights of any trip! From meze platters consisting of hummus, cheese, olive oil, and meat-filled crispy pastries to tender kebabs marinated to perfection.
As for the history and heritage of Turkey, it is among the best countries with Islamic history. Turkey is teeming is mosques and other sacred sites dating back to the 11th century.
Additionally, the country boasts 17 breathtaking sites that are included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. One of which is the Grome National Park and Rock Sites of Cappadocia.
This unearthly region, sculpted by erosion, is renowned for its landscape and unusual rock formations. Travelers enjoy taking a hot air balloon over it to get a bird’ s-eye view.
4. Morocco
Morocco, located in North Africa, is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With a Muslim population of over 99%, Morocco is a prime destination for Muslim travelers seeking a diverse and halal-friendly experience. Marrakech, known as the Red City, is a vibrant and bustling city filled with history and culture.
The medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow streets, vibrant souks, and beautiful riads where you can easily find halal food, with a variety of local dishes such as tagine, couscous, and pastilla.
Fes, home to the world’s oldest university, Al Quaraouiyine, is a living museum of Islamic culture. The Medina in Fes is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, where you can explore ancient mosques, madrasas, and artisan workshops.
Chefchaouen, known as the Blue Pearl, is famous for its blue-painted streets and buildings. This picturesque city in the Rif Mountains offers a tranquil escape with stunning scenery, ideal for relaxation and reflection, with plenty of halal dining options and beautiful mosques.
For an unforgettable adventure, head to the Sahara Desert, where you can embark on a camel trek and camp under the starry skies in traditional Berber tents. Many tour operators cater to Muslim travelers, ensuring halal meals and prayer facilities are available.
With its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Morocco is a perfect destination for a halal-friendly holiday.
5. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of those places that all travelers love. Well, it is Dubai that they love and want to see. It is one of the world’s most iconic cities, which was just a dry desert less than 40 years ago.
The UAE may be the most liberal and laid-back out of the Gulf nations, but you can rest assured that it is Muslim-friendly. When you zoom out of Dubai and view the rest of the six emirates, you’ll start to get a real sense of this oil-rich country.
Let’s start with the capital, Abu Dhabi.
The term Abu Dhabi means “Father of the Gazelle”, which originates from the abundance of these animals in the region. This family-friendly and modern city offers a range of attractions and activities that will delight any traveler. It’s even an ideal holiday destination for Muslim families.
Discover in Abu Dhabi the largest and most grand mosque in the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan al Nahyan Grand Mosque. With the capacity to hold 41,000 people, the mosque is an Islamic architectural masterpiece with design influences from past empires such as Persian and Mughal.
As an ideal halal beach holiday destination, the UAE offers countless beaches all around the country. From Dubai’s world-renowned Jumeirah Beach and Palm Island to the ladies-only Al Bateen beach in Abu Dhabi.
Those who want to experience the expanse of the desert and life in the past should head out to Liwa Oasis. Located at the edge of Rub Al Khali (the Empty Quarter), Liwa Oasis is the birthplace of the rulers of the country and is beloved by all locals. Every July, the Liwa Date Festival takes place to celebrate the country’s national fruit.
Tip: Dubai also attracts millions of travelers from all around the globe you may encounter a lot of distractions such as a Mix of gender in tourist attractions. To avoid the crowd, get help from local guides who can guide you towards perfect places. You can also ensure your trip’s halal-friendly amenities by booking with Halal holiday providers. We recommend staying in remote areas for a better Islamic environment.
6. Jordan
Jordan is a hidden gem in the Middle East, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a Muslim population of over 92%, Jordan is an excellent destination for halal-conscious travelers.
The ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination, offering breathtaking views and an immersive historical experience.
The site also has prayer facilities for Muslim travelers, ensuring a comfortable visit. The Dead Sea, known for its high salt content that allows visitors to float effortlessly, is also renowned for its therapeutic properties, making it a popular spot for relaxation and wellness.
The capital city, Amman, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. Here, you can explore ancient ruins, bustling markets, and indulge in delicious Jordanian cuisine, all of which are halal.
Don’t miss trying the national dish, mansaf, a flavorful lamb dish served with rice and fermented dried yogurt. For those seeking adventure, Wadi Rum offers an otherworldly landscape with its red sand dunes and towering rock formations. It’s a great place for camping under the stars, and many tour operators offer halal-friendly options.
With its warm hospitality, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Jordan is a fantastic destination for a memorable and halal-friendly holiday.
7. Thailand
Thailand, or The Land of Smiles as it’s known, is a very reliable holiday destination as the whole country depends on tourism. Although it has a reputation for being seedy, that side of Thailand is only found if you’re in search of it.
With the population being 95% Buddhist, this country makes a special effort to welcome all types of tourists, including Muslim travelers. After living in Thailand for more than three years, I can confirm that Thailand is a Muslim-friendly destination.
Although it’s fairly easy to find halal food in Thailand, I recommend staying in the major cities and southern Thailand, where there’s a higher concentration of Muslims. The southern region is among the most popular Muslim tourist destinations.
When you’re in southern Thailand, you’ll feel as though you’re in Malaysia.
Areas such as Hat Yai and Krabi have a lot of Muslims, which means finding halal food and prayer facilities are a piece of cake. Additionally, southern Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world and numerous national parks.
One national park that is unforgettable is Khao Sok, which offers an otherworldly landscape. Within the park lies the famous Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by tall limestone cliffs jutting out from the still waters.
Additionally, as one of the most popular halal-friendly holiday destinations, Thailand is known for its stunning islands and top-rated beaches. There are numerous Muslim-friendly islands in Thailand, one of which is Koh Lipe.
This island lies at the southern tip of Thailand, next to Langkawi, Malaysia. Here you can stay in halal-friendly beach resorts and spend your days diving in the crystal-clear waters.
The capital, Bangkok, is a vast, vibrant, and fast-paced city with some of the best street food in the world. Many vendors serve halal street food such as khao mok gai (yellow rice with chicken) and the mouth-watering sweet treat, Roti Gluay (Thai banana pancake).
8. Singapore
Singapore is a small island city-state in Southeast Asia that is extremely modern and efficient. With a Muslim population of roughly 15%, it is easy to find halal food, prayer facilities, and more!
This country is a melting pot of many Asian cultures and ethnicities such as Malay, Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, and others.
As a result, Singapore is like no other place on the planet. Experience this blend of cultures in different areas of the city. Visit Little India to see the Indian heritage, Chinatown to see the Chinese culture and Kampong Glam for the Malay experience.
The best part is that each area is within walking distance of the other. I love wandering around and visiting the traditional Malay eateries before heading to Chinatown for the bustling market atmosphere.
Also, with so many mosques scattered around Singapore, you’ll always have a prayer facility nearby.
As for the best time to visit Singapore, it’s during Ramadan or Eid.
During Ramadan, you’ll find the Geylang Serai Bazaar offering a range of delicious halal street food for iftar. Also, the streets of Kampong Glam are filled with Muslims celebrating Eid in Singapore with festivals, events, and food stalls.
On top of that, as a halal-conscious traveler, you’ll feel comfortable with how diverse and multicultural the locals are. You’ll see many Muslim women dressed in hijabs and burkas wandering around the city.
Visit Singapore for its lush gardens, world-renowned shopping, spectacular attractions, and excellent hospitality. Although it’s one of the smallest halal holiday destinations, there is a lot to discover!
9. Indonesia
Indonesia is the largest Muslim-majority country in the world. The country is made up of 17,000 islands and features unique experiences across each one. Therefore, Indonesia is one of the best Muslim family holiday destinations to visit.
If I were to detail the best islands, this post would be way longer than intended. So, I’ll discuss the most popular islands among halal-conscious travelers.
Bali
Bali is the most popular island in Indonesia and sees millions of tourists every year. Bali has a small Muslim population of 13% but still caters well to Muslim tourists.
While the Hindu culture is prevalent in Bali, finding halal food and mosques is not difficult. Bali is well-prepared to meet the needs of Muslim travelers as it boasts hundreds of halal restaurants.
The best way to ensure a great experience in Bali is to choose a Muslim-friendly villa or resort.
Since it’s not common to see hijabis in Bali, modest swimwear may attract unwanted attention. But if you stay in a private villa with a pool, you can avoid the hassle.
Java
Java is the most populated island in the world. As a Muslim-majority island, Java has a rich Islamic history and heritage that you can see through the locals and their traditions.
Visit the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, Istiqlal Mosque, in Jakarta. The mosque is a monumental symbol of Indonesian independence.
Experience the Islamic history of Indonesia by visiting the Grand Mosque of Banten and Sunan Ampel Mosque, two of the oldest mosques on the island.
As for Halal food, you’ll have no problem finding it in Java. The island is among the top Muslim-friendly holiday destinations in Indonesia.
Lombok
Lombok is Bali’s neighboring island and a haven for halal-conscious travelers. It’s commonly known as the “Island of 1,000 Mosques”, and it offers a completely different experience from Bali.
Unlike Bali, Lombok has a majority Muslim population of 90%. This makes the island one of the best halal travel destinations in the region. You’ll find many mosques, prayer facilities, and halal restaurants on the island.
You may notice that people wear more conservative clothing, and tourists dress more modestly.
Lombok is one of the most beautiful Muslim countries to visit, with lush mountains, breathtaking beaches, and friendly locals.
10. Mauritius
Mauritius is a small but beautiful island nation located in the Indian Ocean.
The country boasts a diverse population made up of Indian, African, Chinese, and European heritage. With a Muslim population of 17%, this little island offers a variety of halal-friendly options for food, prayer, and more!
You’ll find that Mauritian cuisine is heavily influenced by the different cultures present on the island. Taste some of the best local dishes at affordable prices.
Halal food is available throughout the island, and there are numerous halal-friendly resorts to choose from.
Additionally, there are many mosques scattered across the island where you can go for prayers.
Mauritius is ideal for Muslim travelers seeking a serene island getaway. You can indulge in the island’s natural beauty, including stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and lush mountains.
You’ll also find various outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the local markets.
Visit Mauritius for a peaceful and unforgettable halal holiday experience.
General Tips to Follow in These Muslim Holiday Destinations
By following these simple tips, Muslim travelers can ensure a safe, respectful, and fulfilling holiday experience while visiting these destinations. Here are the 15 most important tips for Muslim travelers to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable holiday while adhering to Islamic practices:
- Check Safety Conditions: Research the safety and security conditions of your destination, including crime rates and any political unrest.
- Choose Halal-Friendly Accommodations: Opt for hotels or guesthouses approved by Islamic organizations like Halal Trip or Halal Bookings to ensure halal-friendly amenities.
- Respect Local Customs: Learn about local customs and dress codes to avoid unwanted attention and show respect for the culture.
- Carry Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents such as passports and visas with you at all times.
- Know Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers for quick access to urgent assistance if needed.
- Use Reputable Transport: Utilize reputable public transportation companies and follow safety protocols.
- Stay in Groups: Explore new places with others and stay in groups for added safety.
- Follow Local Laws: Understand and adhere to local laws, including restrictions on alcohol and other activities considered haram.
- Stay Connected: Inform family or friends of your whereabouts regularly and ensure they can contact you.
- Choose Halal Food: Avoid alcohol and ensure dining at halal-certified restaurants to comply with Islamic dietary laws.
- Pack Sufficient Cash: Carry a sufficient amount of cash as some locations may not accept credit cards.
- Beware of Scams: Be cautious of scams and fraudulent activities; if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Respect Each Other: People from almost every country can be found in these holiday destinations, respecting each other’s sentiments and cultural values will lead to a better holiday experience.
- Check Currency Exchange Rates: Be aware of current exchange rates to avoid financial surprises.
- Plan for Emergencies: Carry essential items like a first-aid kit, flashlight, and communication devices for emergencies.
Conclusion
These ten Muslim holiday destinations offer a perfect blend of cultural experiences, stunning scenery, and halal-friendly amenities, ensuring that Muslim travelers can enjoy their holidays without any concerns. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beach getaway in the Maldives, a cultural adventure in Turkey, or a family-friendly trip to the UAE, these destinations have something for everyone. Imagine exploring the historic streets of Istanbul, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Langkawi, or savoring diverse cuisine in Malaysia.
Adventure seekers can enjoy snorkeling in Indonesia or trekking in Thailand, all while maintaining their religious practices with ease. Morocco and Jordan offer rich cultural histories and warm hospitality, making them perfect for immersive experiences. Meanwhile, Mauritius and Egypt provide unique landscapes and timeless wonders. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable journey to one of these breathtaking Muslim holiday destinations. Happy travels!
