The Philippines has been recognized as one of the countries that are welcoming to Muslim travelers worldwide, as stated in a report that evaluates countries based on their Muslim-friendly tourism policies and programs.
This year, the Philippines has moved up to the 8th spot from the 12th place in 2024 in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025’s list of top 20 non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) destinations by Mastercard and CrescentRating.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her delight over the Philippines’ improved ranking, stating: “This recognition for the Philippines by the Global Muslim Travel Index 2025 affirms our steady commitment to introduce the Philippines as a halal and Muslim-friendly destination, as well as transforming our leading and emerging tourist spots to become those that practice inclusivity and diversity regardless of race and faith. With a country such as the Philippines that is known for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural attractions, introducing halal and Muslim-friendly tourism has been crucial in our work at the Department of Tourism.”
In the GMTI 2025 foreword, CrescentRating and HalalTrip CEO Fazal Bahardeen highlighted the progress made by destinations outside the OIC in embracing the Muslim travel market. He commended the efforts of countries like Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Philippines in building inclusive and welcoming tourism ecosystems through proactive government strategies.
The report published on June 12, 2025, stated that the Philippines is gradually positioning itself as a Muslim-friendly destination by enhancing its ability to cater to Muslim travelers.
The Philippines received a GMTI 2025 score of 53, an increase of six points from the GMTI 2024 score of 47. In 2023 and 2024, the Halal in Travel Awards recognized the Philippines as the Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (Non-OIC).
According to the report, international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024, a 25% increase from 2023, and are projected to reach 245 million by 2030. Total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion by 2030, underscoring the growing influence and economic potential of this dynamic market.
Under Secretary Frasco’s leadership, the DOT has actively promoted halal and Muslim-friendly tourism as part of its efforts to diversify the country’s tourism offerings outlined in the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028. In April 2024, the department issued Memorandum Circular 2024-003, which amended the guidelines governing the operations and recognition of Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments.
The DOT has expanded its Halal and Muslim-friendly Tourism portfolio by introducing Halal-certified dining options, recognizing Muslim-friendly establishments across various tourism facilities, and conducting awareness orientations for tourism stakeholders. Collaborating with stakeholders, the DOT has launched initiatives such as SALAAM: The Halal Tourism and Trade Expo and Marhaba Boracay, a Muslim-friendly cove for Muslim families and travelers on Boracay Island.
Following a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the DOT and Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, all 13 properties of the hotel group have been officially recognized as 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments (MFAE), making it the first hotel group to be honored as the “Muslim-Friendly Chain of the Year” in the Philippines at the Halal in Travel Awards held in Singapore on June 12. The GMTI 2025 also recognized the group’s efforts, noting that they have implemented various facilities and services tailored to meet the needs of Muslim travelers.
