Muslim Friendly Tourism (MFT):
Understanding the Supply and Demand Sides
In the OIC Member Countries
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d) Attractions & Activities (shopping, beaches, sightseeing etc.)
Muslim travelers visiting an attraction in Singapore would find them to be very Halal friendly.
Halal food is generally available in all the major attractions. Some attractions like Universal
studios also have prayer rooms.
e) Travel agents/Tour operators
Most travel tour operators can make sure that Muslim visitor coming through them are catered
with Muslim friendly services.
f) Human capital
Singapore is fortunate that although it’s a non-OIC member state there is a high level of
awareness, knowledge and expertise towards catering to the Muslim traveler. Muslims and
non-Muslims alike are fairly familiar with the unique needs and preferences required by
Muslim travelers. MUIS conducts many programs in the Halal food area. However it does not
have specific programs to develop human resources for the MFT..
g) Destinations
Singapore is a preferred travel destination by Muslims because of the following;
- Family friendliness and safety
- High Muslim-friendly services and facilities available
- Good Halal awareness and reach to Muslims
Singapore was ranked one of the safest cities in the world by the Safe Cities Index published in
Economic Intelligence Unit. With a significantly large Muslim population, Singapore is also very
safe for Muslim travelers. In addition, the Singaporean government demonstrates high
maturity, tolerance and responsibility towards all religions. Another appeal is that Singapore is
the city to be if you are a foodie, according to Shahrizal Salleh (Chef Bob) of Sedap Corner Asian
Fare & Grill. Thankfully, halal restaurants are aplenty and easy to find in Singapore.
Due to cultural similarities, OIC Asian-grouping countries generally view Singapore as a
preferred travel destination. The OIC Asian group continues to be the top five contributors in
terms of visitor arrivals into Singapore.
Strengths and challenges for the Singapore’s MFT segment
Singapore has been successful in attracting both Muslim and non-Muslim visitors to the island.
The GMTI (2015)17 report ranks Singapore as the No. 1 Muslim friendly destination among the
non-OIC countries. With Muslim arrivals constituting around 20 percent of the total arrivals in
2014, it is a good example of how a destination manages the needs of both Muslim and non-
Muslim visitors.
The key strength of Singapore also lies with its local Muslim population. With around 15% of
the population being Muslim, Singapore has been able to develop a strong Halal food and
17 MasterCard-CrescentRating (2015); Global Muslim Travel Index 2015 (GMTI); Singapore CrescentRating