Islamic lifestyle roundup: Türkiye among top destinations for Muslim travelers
Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem in June
Editor's note: Muslim travelers are becoming a force to reckon with, encouraging countries such as Germany and Cambodia to launch initiatives to beckon them. Meanwhile, Turkiye builds on its successes to become the second most preferred global destination for Muslim tourists.
Trade Developments
Cambodia
Cambodia enhancing halal tourism to attract Muslim travellers
Cambodia is enhancing its appeal to Muslim travelers by improving halal offerings and prayer facilities, as part of a broader strategy to become a more inclusive destination for visitors from Muslim-majority countries.
In a press conference on June 4, Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia Santo Darmosumarto discussed tourism initiatives between Indonesia and Cambodia, emphasizing Cambodia's efforts to be more Muslim-friendly. (Borneo Bulletin)
Türkiye
Türkiye climbs to second spot among global destinations for Muslim travelers
Türkiye has been ranked as the second most favored travel destination for Muslim tourists globally, according to a recent report on Muslim travel preferences.
The country's rich Islamic heritage, diverse tourism offerings, and inclusive hospitality were cited as key factors contributing to this achievement.
Türkiye now stands alongside Saudi Arabia and the UAE, just behind Malaysia, which remains the leader due to its extensive halal-friendly services. (Travel and Tour World)
Macau
Macau urged to tap Muslim tourism market
Macau has been included in the Global Muslim Travel Index for the first time, earning top rankings in key categories for non-OIC destinations.
Published by CrescentRating and Mastercard, the index ranked Macau 5th globally in the Muslim women-friendly destination category and 16th overall as a Muslim-friendly destination.
The Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has worked to create a halal-friendly environment and promote the city to Muslim travelers, particularly from Southeast Asia and the Middle East. (Macau Daily Times)
Germany
Germany creates halal travel guide
In June 2025, the German National Tourist Board introduced its first-ever Germany Halal Travel Guide, marking a milestone in the global tourism sector.
Initially released in English, with an Arabic version to follow, the guide highlights four of Germany’s most popular and historically significant cities: Munich, Düsseldorf, Dresden, and Berlin.
These cities were selected for their popularity and their ability to cater to Muslim travelers, offering services and facilities that align with Islamic practices. (Travel and Tour World)
Operational Development
Saudi Arabia
World’s largest cooling system activated at Grand Mosque for Hajj
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has activated the world's largest cooling system in preparation for the Hajj season.
The system has a total cooling capacity of 155,000 tons, with two main stations: Al-Shamiya Station (120,000 tons) and Ajyad Station (35,000 tons). These stations cover the entire Grand Mosque complex, including all expansion areas, ensuring comfortable temperatures between 22°C and 24°C for pilgrims. (Saudi Gazette)
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Civil Defence launches AI-powered drone for Hajj operations
The General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense deployed the advanced "Falcon" drone equipped with artificial intelligence as part of its operational plans for the Hajj season.
The Falcon drone is designed for firefighting and rescue operations in high-altitude or hard-to-reach areas. It can operate for up to 12 hours and carry a 40-kilogram payload. (Sharjah24)
