Philippines launches first Muslim-friendly tourism forum to capture growing market
MANILA: Filipino hoteliers and businesses gathered on Saturday for the Philippines’ first halal and Muslim-friendly tourism forum in Manila, as they seek to capture the growing Muslim travel market.
Tourism is a key sector for the Philippines, contributing more than 8 percent to its gross domestic product in 2025. Before the COVID pandemic, the sector’s GDP contribution reached nearly 13 percent, or about $44 billion.
The country, known for its white sandy beaches, diving spots and diverse culture, has been working to attract Muslim travelers in recent years by creating Muslim-friendly destinations and ensuring that they have access to halal products and services.
After organizing the first halal travel and trade expo, SALAAM, in 2024, the Department of Tourism expanded the event by launching the first Muslim-friendly tourism conference, RIHLAH, on Saturday, as officials seek to boost the Philippines’ position as a preferred destination for global Muslim travelers.
