Global index highlights Sultanate’s growing appeal for faith-based tourism and visitor experience
Oman has been recognised as one of the world’s 10 leading destinations for Muslim travellers, reinforcing its position as a preferred choice for faith-based tourism in the latest Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2026 published by Mastercard and CrescentRating.
The Sultanate secured 10th place globally in the annual rankings, which assess destinations on their ability to meet the needs of Muslim travellers through accessibility, services, communication, safety and overall visitor experience. The report evaluates 150 destinations representing more than 98 per cent of global Muslim visitor arrivals.
The recognition reflects Oman’s continued investment in tourism infrastructure while preserving its cultural heritage and Islamic identity
The country offers a wide range of halal dining options, prayer facilities, family-friendly attractions and authentic cultural experiences, making it an attractive destination for visitors seeking faith-conscious travel
According to the GMTI 2026 report, Muslim international travel is expected to continue expanding, with global arrivals projected to reach 208 million in 2026 before rising to 262 million by 2030. Annual spending by Muslim travellers is forecast to grow to around US$310 billion by the end of the decade.
The latest edition of the index also highlights the growing importance of digital services in travel planning. Around 80 per cent of travellers now use artificial intelligence tools to research and organise their trips, prompting destinations to improve their online visibility and digital accessibility. The report notes that countries with strong digital platforms and reliable travel information are likely to gain a competitive advantage in the expanding Muslim travel market.
Malaysia retained the top position in the 2026 rankings, while Indonesia, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia shared second place. Qatar ranked fifth, the United Arab Emirates sixth, and Oman completed the global top 10, underlining the Gulf region’s growing prominence in the international Muslim-friendly tourism sector.
