UAE Ranks Among World’s Top Muslim-Friendly Travel Destinations
The UAE has secured a top position in Muslim-friendly travel rankings. Mastercard and CrescentRating released their Global Muslim Travel Index 2026 recently. The country ranks sixth globally with an impressive score of 75. This achievement reinforces its strength across halal tourism and services. The report places the UAE in the Trailblazers quadrant.
Perfect Scores and Accessibility
The UAE achieved a perfect score of 100 for halal dining availability. Prayer places are equally accessible across the country. The nation also ranks first for travel ease and connectivity. World-class airports and efficient public transit support this success. Streamlined visa policies further enhance the travel experience.
International Muslim arrivals are projected to reach 208 million this year. This figure rises from 196 million in 2025. The market could hit 262 million travelers by 2030. Spending is expected to reach $310 billion annually.
Digital Transformation in Muslim Travel
Eighty percent of travelers now use AI tools for trip planning. AI platforms help find halal dining and prayer locations. They also compare transport routes and provide personalized recommendations. Digital visibility is becoming essential for destination competitiveness. Destinations that fail to digitize risk losing visibility.
The GMTI 2026 evaluates 150 destinations worldwide. It uses the ACES framework covering Access, Communications, Environment, and Services. The latest edition emphasizes AI readiness and smart infrastructure. Global volatility is shifting travelers toward closer, safer destinations.
