The Best Muslim-Friendly Countries to Visit in 2026

Malaysia has once again been recognized as the world’s most Muslim-friendly destination for travelers, according to the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2026 published by Mastercard and CrescentRating.

The annual index evaluates destinations based on factors such as accessibility, Muslim-friendly services, communications, safety, and the overall travel experience for Muslim visitors. The 2026 edition also places greater emphasis on digital readiness and the use of artificial intelligence in travel planning as the global Muslim tourism market continues to expand.

Malaysia secured the top position with a score of 83, reaffirming its long-standing leadership in halal tourism. The country offers extensive halal-certified dining options, abundant prayer facilities, well-developed Islamic tourism infrastructure, and supportive government policies that cater to the needs of Muslim travelers.

These strengths have enabled Malaysia to maintain its reputation as the benchmark for Muslim-friendly tourism worldwide.

Sharing the score of 79 are Indonesia, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia. Indonesia continues to attract visitors with its diverse cultural heritage, growing network of halal tourism destinations, and expanding Muslim-friendly hospitality services.

Türkiye combines rich Islamic history with world-renowned cultural attractions, while Saudi Arabia has strengthened its tourism appeal by expanding leisure offerings beyond religious pilgrimage through significant investments under its tourism development strategy.

Qatar ranked fifth with a score of 76, reflecting its modern infrastructure, premium hospitality sector, and commitment to providing high-quality services for Muslim visitors. The United Arab Emirates followed with 75, benefiting from its global aviation connectivity, luxury tourism offerings, and wide availability of halal facilities.

Bahrain, Iran, and Kuwait shared the seventh position with scores of 74, each offering unique cultural, historical, and religious attractions supported by Muslim-friendly travel services. Oman completed the top ten with a score of 70, recognized for its natural landscapes, authentic Arabian heritage, and welcoming environment for international visitors.

The GMTI 2026 rankings highlight the increasing competitiveness of destinations seeking to attract the rapidly growing Muslim travel market. According to the report, international Muslim visitor arrivals reached approximately 196 million in 2025, with further growth expected over the coming years.

As travelers increasingly rely on digital platforms and AI-powered tools to plan their journeys, destinations are investing not only in halal-friendly facilities but also in technology, sustainability, and personalized travel experiences.

The latest rankings demonstrate that providing inclusive services, reliable infrastructure, and a seamless travel experience will remain essential for countries aiming to strengthen their position in one of the fastest-growing segments of global tourism.