Malaysia named world's top Muslim-friendly destination as GCC tourism appeal grows
Exclusive hotel promotions launched alongside major cultural celebrations
DUBAI – Malaysia has retained its position as the world's leading Muslim-friendly destination in the Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025, strengthening its reputation among travellers from the GCC seeking halal-friendly holidays, cultural experiences and family-focused tourism.
The latest ranking highlights Malaysia's continued leadership in offering seamless travel experiences through its extensive halal dining network, widespread prayer facilities, welcoming hospitality and well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Alongside its Muslim-friendly credentials, Malaysia is encouraging visitors from the Gulf to explore its diverse regions through a packed calendar of festivals, heritage celebrations and nature-based experiences taking place throughout the summer.
Summer festivals
Among the season's highlights is the Pesta Nukenan, also known as the Bario Food Festival, which will be held in Sarawak's Kelabit Highlands from July 24 to 26. The annual festival offers visitors an opportunity to experience traditional cuisine, indigenous culture and performances while exploring one of Malaysian Borneo's most scenic landscapes, known for its pristine rainforests and welcoming local communities.
Penang will also take centre stage with the George Town Festival from August 2 to 10. Hosted in the UNESCO World Heritage city, the festival features an extensive programme of visual arts, theatre, music and cultural performances. Widely recognised for its multicultural heritage, renowned gastronomy and vibrant creative scene, George Town continues to attract visitors looking for an immersive city-break experience.
Travel offers
In conjunction with Citrawarna 2026, scheduled from July 24 to 26 at Dataran Merdeka, Tourism Malaysia has partnered with more than 40 hotels and accommodation providers across the Klang Valley and selected states to introduce exclusive promotional offers.
The campaign includes discounted room rates and bundled holiday packages available for booking from mid-July until mid-August 2026. Travellers can make reservations directly through participating hotels' official websites or other authorised booking channels. Details of participating properties and packages are being released progressively through Tourism Malaysia's official communication platforms.
GCC focus
Faharuddin Hatmin, Director of Tourism Malaysia Dubai, said Malaysia's latest recognition reflected the country's continued commitment to delivering seamless, welcoming and enriching travel experiences for visitors from the GCC.
He said that while Malaysia's halal-friendly infrastructure and hospitality remain among its strongest attractions, the country is equally proud of the wide variety of experiences available, ranging from cultural festivals and heritage destinations to rainforests, family attractions and authentic local encounters across different regions.
Beyond its seasonal festivals, Malaysia continues to promote a diverse range of experiences for Gulf travellers, including the cool highlands of Sarawak, the historic streets of Penang, family attractions in Kuala Lumpur and the country's tropical islands.