Islamic lifestyle roundup: Macao redefines tourism landscape with halal strategy
Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem during May
Editor's Note:
It is only when a state institutionalizes a strategy, that you know how important a pattern it is supporting. Macao has launched a new blueprint to attract Muslim travelers while Hong Kong is looking to undergird its position across the global tourism network via a new certification.
Trade Developments
Image Courtesy: Halal Focus
Thailand
Tourism Authority promotes country as prime Muslim-friendly destination
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is promoting the country as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at the Arabian Travel Market 2025.
This initiative aligns with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025.
At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with GCC-based airlines such as Emirates and Etihad Airways to improve connectivity and launch co-branded campaigns highlighting Thailand's wellness and luxury experiences.
These efforts aim to help TAT achieve its 2025 target of attracting over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA). (Halal Focus)
Macao
Macao redefines tourism landscape with halal strategy
Macao has launched an ambitious halal tourism strategy to attract global Muslim travelers, aiming to tap into the booming USD 225 billion market.
During the Macao International Travel Expo (MITE) 2025, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) representatives unveiled a plan to position Macao as a halal-friendly destination in Asia.
The strategy focuses on embracing halal tourism development and expanding culturally inclusive travel services to cater to the growing demand from Muslim travelers. (Travel and Tour World)
Vietnam / UAE
Da Nang targets high-spending halal tourists with new Dubai flight
Da Nang is aiming to attract luxury travelers from the Middle East, by enhancing its halal-friendly services and infrastructure.
With a direct air service from Dubai launching in June, the city is building a tailored ecosystem to cater to this lucrative market, known for high spending, long stays, and demand for premium services.
Local hotels and resorts are upgrading their culinary services to better accommodate halal and Middle Eastern guests. (Vietnam Net Global)
Hong Kong
Hong Kong to launch new certification to attract Muslim visitors
Hong Kong is set to launch the “Halal Q Mark”, a certification for halal-compliant products and services, to strengthen its position in the global halal tourism and retail markets.
The certification will ensure products meet Islamic dietary and ethical standards, while opening new opportunities for local businesses.
Steve Chuang Tzu-hsiung, chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, stated that the Q Mark will serve as a gateway for companies to engage with the global Muslim market, which includes over two billion people, nearly a quarter of the world's population. (The Islamic Information)
Company News
Malaysia
Halal Holidays launches platform to meet demand for Muslim-friendly travel across Asia
Halal Holidays has officially launched a Muslim-friendly travel platform, to cater to the rapidly growing halal tourism sector, projected to reach US 225 billion by 2028.
The HalalHolidays.asia platform offers fully halal-certified travel packages, accommodations, and seamless booking experiences tailored for faith-conscious travelers.
The launch aligns with industry insights from CrescentRating, which highlight Asia as the next major halal travel hotspot, with Muslim travelers seeking options that meet their religious needs while still providing premium experiences. (Binary News Network)
Operational Development
Image Courtesy: SPA
Saudi Arabia
Royal Commission highlights new and improved services for Hajj pilgrims
Saudi Arabia is prepared to serve the pilgrims arriving for this year’s Hajj, as announced by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites.
The country has invested in infrastructure enhancements in Makkah, Mina, and Muzdalifah, including transport and healthcare projects.
Improvements include pedestrian sidewalks and shaded tracks in central Makkah, as well as expanded prayer yards to accommodate the large crowds.
During Hajj, Makkah's bus network will be enhanced with 400 buses operating on 12 routes, serving 431 stops and four central bus stations. (Arab News)
