Thailand, still secures itself among the top destinations for Muslim tourists worldwide, according to Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024 report. Thailand is known for its stunning views of beaches, culture, cities, and diverse, flavorful cuisines.
Why did they choose Thailand?
Many Halal options
Despite Muslims being a minority in the country, their population encompasses about 7.5 million, as of 2024. Therefore, there are certain parts of Thailand that are populated with a significant number of Muslims, such as southern Thailand and Bangkok. Muslims can easily find some halal restaurants and eateries in these areas. For instance, Ramkhamhaeng Night Market in Bangkok is known for its halal street food options, which cater to the needs of Muslim residents and visitors. It is also said to have much cheaper options. While it is not predominantly Muslim, it is one of the areas in Bangkok where the Muslim community is visibly present and active.
Attractive destinations
Thailand has many beautiful destinations that attract visitors from all over the world. Destinations such as Phuket, Bangkok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Ko Chang (Trat), Chiang Mai, Phang Nga, and Krabi are among the top places that become a choice for Muslim travelers. These places offers accommodations, facilities and services which are conducive for Muslim travelers. A study found that Phuket is one of the top tourist destination due to its cultural and recreational tourist attractions. It has the potential to support halal tourism in the country, with halal-certified hotels found all over the island around Phuket.
Temporary visit destination
According to a study, Muslims typically come to visit Thailand before traveling to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj and Umrah. This is especially a convenient transit point for Muslim travelers from Southeast Asia. Due to its halal tourism infrastructure, it has become an attractive destination for Muslims. It is also one of the reasons why the country receives a huge number of Muslim tourists every year.
Conclusions
Thailand remains a top travel destination for Muslim tourists. The country offers a diverse range of attractions, including stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Despite being a minority, Thailand’s Muslim population is significant, with many halal options available, particularly in southern Thailand and Bangkok. Thailand serves as a convenient transit point for Muslims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah, further contributing to its popularity. Overall, Thailand’s blend of cultural diversity, halal tourism infrastructure, and convenient location make it a top destination for Muslim tourists worldwide.
