If you were to ask any Muslim travellers about what they wish for when going holidaying, destinations with easily accessible halal food and prayer facilities would probably be at the top of their answers. As of now, more countries around the world are increasingly offering Muslim-friendly experiences, not to mention the Asian continent, which is home to several predominantly Muslim countries. So, without further ado, here are some of the best Halal-friendly destinations in Asia you must visit!

Who would have thought that one of the smallest countries in the world is considered a Muslim-friendly destination in Asia! Known for its multicultural and inclusive society, it is no surprise that among non-members of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Singapore ranked the highest on the GMTI. Added with Singapore’s government policies that promote cultural sensitivity and understanding, it is a haven for Muslim travellers seeking muslim-friendly destinations. Aside from providing national halal certifications and prayer facilities throughout the country, it also caters Muslim travellers with its endless cultural experiences, such as the Sultan Mosque and its significance to the local Muslim community.

Must-visit Destinations: Kampong Glam, Arab Street, Sentosa Island, Masjid Jamae (Chulia Mosque), Geylang Serai, Bussorah Street, Adam Road Food Centre, and Bugis Junction.

Our next stop is Singapore’s neighbouring country and the world’s largest archipelago, Indonesia. To put into perspective why this country topped the 2023 GMTI ranking, it is the most populous Muslim country with diverse culture spanning over 17,000 islands. Indonesia is home to countless Muslim-friendly infrastructure such as halal-certified hotels and restaurants, prayer facilities in malls and workplaces, and mosques all over the country. This makes it convenient for Muslim travellers to explore Indonesia without having to worry about not practising the religion.

Must-visit Destinations: Old Town Jakarta, Istiqlal Mosque, Mentawai Island, Tana Toraja, Raja Ampat Islands, Derawan Islands, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, and Weh Island.

Sharing joint first place with Indonesia in the 2023 GMTI ranking, Malaysia is a favoured destination for Muslim travellers seeking unparalleled halal-friendly places. The country has a variety of halal-certified options around the country with an abundance of mosques and prayer rooms in every corner and public facilities, making travellers feel at home. Some accommodations in Malaysia even provide separate swimming pools and spa facilities for both genders, along with Quran and prayer mats in every room. Enjoy a worry-free trip in this Muslim-majority country as you explore its Islamic heritage and other attractions!

Must-visit Destinations: Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Taman Negara National Park, Malacca, Penang, Perhentian Islands, Sipadan Island, and Kinabalu Sabah.

Known for centuries as the centre of civilization, Turkey gave birth to Islamic’s most powerful empire, the Ottoman Empire. Which was once known as Constantinople–the capital of Ottoman and served as the spiritual centre of Islam, Istanbul is currently packed with Islamic cultural references tourists want to get a glimpse of. Although a secular country, Turkey boasts an array of Islamic heritage with its Palaces, halal food like the infamous Kebab, and iconic prayer facilities all over the country. Don’t forget to shop some colourful ornaments in their closed market with over 4.000 shops inside!

Must-visit Destinations: Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Şirince, Bosphorus, Grand Bazaar, Göreme National Park, and Cappadocia.

Home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the Al-Azhar University, one cannot detach Egypt from being at Muslim-friendly country because of its Islamic heritage. Thus, with lots of halal food options, mosques, and Islamic culture and history, Muslim travellers will not find it hard to explore this place thoroughly. Whether you choose to visit the pyramids or experience a halal dinner cruise along the Nile river, Egypt offers a broad range of halal travel you’ll always remember.

Must-visit Destinations: Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, Siwa Oasis, Nile River Cruises, Egyptian Museum, Luxor, Alexandria, Red Sea Riviera, and White Desert.

Looking for an all-halal Michelin holiday experience? Flying to the United Arab Emirates is the perfect choice for those who like to spend their holidays basking in luxury resorts, cuisines, modern infrastructure, and cultural attractions. Since it is an Islamic country with rich cultural heritage and Islamic traditions, Muslim travellers could cherry-pick from the various available halal food options and prayer places to visit. For the ladies who like to enjoy a day at the beach without prying eyes, you might want to check out one out of the many private ladies beaches!

Must-visit Destinations: Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Sharjah, and the Empty Quarter (Arabian Desert).

Another quite unexpected country to be put in this list is The Maldives! With pristine white sandy beaches and clear blue sea, it is nearly all Muslims. Everywhere you go, it won’t be hard to find halal amenities and cuisines that will indulge your taste buds with halal-certified staple cuisines like you’ve never tasted before. If you’re worried that you won’t get to hear the call for prayer in the middle of the sea, be glad that the azaan is called on every street corner at Male, the capital city of The Maldives.

Must-visit Destinations: Male, Maafushi, Laamu Atoll, Addu Atoll (Seenu), Ari Atoll, North Male Atoll, and South Male Atoll.

Closing our short trip on finding muslim-friendly destinations, the last place that might come as a surprise for you is Japan. With only a small population of Muslim, this 2023 GMTI sixth-place for non-OIC countries takes tourism seriously. Prominent changes can be seen around Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, with halal-certified restaurants and prayer facilities around town. Even more beneficial is how some of the Japanese culture is quite compatible with some of the Islamic teachings, including wearing strict dress codes. Although you may face a bit of difficulty finding mosques in some parts of Japan, you should come prepared with a complete itinerary.

Must-visit Destinations: Asakusa District, Shibuya Crossing, Imperial Palace, Golden Pavilion, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

From country to country, we have listed down the best halal-friendly destinations in Asia so you don’t have to! Pick up your itinerary and note down these recommendations because finding halal-friendly destinations in Asia that’ll satisfy you spiritually while you can still enjoy a fun holiday is a big thing to be considered. Download the Traveloka app to complete your itinerary for a halal holiday to some of the most beautiful countries in the Asian continent. Don’t forget to book your hotels, tickets, and have a wonderful Xperience!