Indonesia rises to the second rank of the world's Muslim-friendly tourism destinations in 2026.

Indonesia has secured second place in the global ranking of Muslim-Friendly Travel destinations according to the 2026 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). This achievement marks an improvement from the fifth position that Indonesia obtained in the previous year.

This rise further solidifies Indonesia's standing within the international Halal Tourism industry competition. This market segment holds enormous potential, as Muslim travellers do not only seek attractive destinations: they also require access to halal food, worship facilities, and supporting services that ensure comfort throughout their trip.

This accomplishment also opens opportunities for domestic tourism industry players to develop services that are increasingly aligned with the needs of both local and international Muslim travellers.

Indonesia Strengthens Muslim-friendly Tourism Competitiveness

The Global Muslim Travel Index is a standardised ranking system used to evaluate how prepared a destination is to serve Muslim visitors. Assessments cover multiple aspects including accessibility, communication, local environment, and visitor services.

In this context, Muslim-friendly tourism is not limited only to religious destinations or mosque visits. This concept also covers family holidays, Nature Tourism, shopping, culinary trips, and general recreational activities that are supported with facilities tailored for Muslim traveller requirements.

Availability of halal food, prayer spaces, and clear information about Muslim-friendly amenities are major deciding factors for people when choosing a holiday destination.

For Indonesia, this competitive advantage can be developed across the country's diverse range of destinations. From natural tourism spots in Lombok, Cultural Experiences in Yogyakarta, to urban and Culinary Tourism offerings across major cities, there is vast potential to expand Muslim-friendly services.

Halal Tourism Opportunities Across All Regions

Indonesia's improved ranking also creates an opportunity to expand Muslim-friendly tourism development beyond already well-known destinations.

Regional governments and tourism operators can upgrade service quality by providing clear halal food information, easily accessible worship facilities, and accommodation options that accommodate Muslim traveller needs.

Additionally, improving workforce competency and carrying out digital promotion also play key roles in introducing Indonesian Destinations to the global market.

Modern Muslim travellers now research travel information through digital platforms before confirming their visit. For this reason, accurate published details regarding facilities, transport access, and available tourist activities are critical for building visitor trust.

Developing Muslim-friendly tourism also carries tangible benefits for local business operators. Restaurants, hotels, transport providers, tour guides, and micro-enterprises can all participate in this Tourism Economy value chain.

Challenges in Maintaining Service Quality

Despite successfully climbing to the second position globally, strengthening the Muslim-friendly tourism sector will require ongoing consistent effort. This international ranking must be matched with real improvements to the on-ground experience that travellers receive when visiting destinations.

Simply having the required facilities is not sufficient. Ease of access, cleanliness, safety, polite and welcoming service, and consistent accurate information all also directly impact visitor satisfaction.

Destinations that successfully deliver on all these requirements will be able to build a positive reputation and encourage repeat visits.

Meanwhile, Tourism Promotion for Muslim-friendly travel must continue to highlight Indonesia's unique culture, natural heritage, and authentic local experiences. This way, halal tourism will not only be perceived as just a set of basic facilities, but as part of developing inclusive, high Quality Tourism for all.

Indonesia's improved position in the 2026 Global Muslim Travel Index provides a valuable foundation to strengthen the nation's tourism competitiveness. The next critical step is to ensure this international recognition is matched with actual service quality and shared economic benefits for communities across all destination areas.