JAKARTA — Macao has launched a comprehensive expansion of its halal tourism offerings in a strategic effort to capture growing demand from Middle Eastern travelers, introducing certified dining options, prayer facilities, and family-focused amenities designed specifically for Muslim guests from Gulf nations.

The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) revealed yesterday that more than 30 additional establishments have obtained halal certification in 2025, increasing the total to over 50 certified venues—a significant jump from merely 17 certified locations last year. This initiative, created in partnership with the Hong Kong Islamic Community Fund, encompasses thorough supply-chain verification, employee education programs, and the addition of prayer spaces in prominent resort properties.

“Macao has evolved beyond its reputation as purely a gaming hub,” stated Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, MGTO director, during a media presentation at the Macao Islamic Centre. “We are establishing a comprehensive framework that enables Muslim families to visit with assurance, confident that their culinary and religious requirements are completely accommodated.”

The timing corresponds with increasing outbound tourism from Middle Eastern countries. As Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s tourism diversification initiatives gain momentum, Gulf travelers are progressively exploring destinations outside conventional European and Southeast Asian routes. Macao, positioned just seven hours by direct flight from Dubai through Emirates and Air Arabia, presents itself as an accessible, premium-quality option.

Transforming the City: Adapting Cuisine and Culture

Historically recognized for its Portuguese-influenced gastronomy—where pork features heavily in traditional dishes like porco balichão and egg tarts—Macao has methodically transformed its culinary landscape. Certified kitchens now prepare halal adaptations of regional specialties, including African chicken reimagined with spice combinations reminiscent of Gulf mandi preparations, and dim sum featuring wagyu beef or seafood fillings.

At The Parisian Macao, executive chef Ahmed Al-Mansouri, a Jordanian professional with background in Dubai’s upscale dining sector, manages a specialized halal preparation facility. “We source lamb from Australia, maintain separate equipment, and perform daily inspections,” he explained. “Our objective is authenticity—in both taste and religious observance.”

Beyond culinary offerings, physical modifications are apparent throughout the city. The Wynn Palace and MGM Cotai now provide marble-finished prayer rooms equipped with qibla indicators and ablution facilities. The Venetian Macao has implemented gender-separated swimming schedules and non-alcoholic drink selections in gaming zones, receiving commendation from Emirati influencers during a September reconnaissance visit.

International Recognition and Ranking Achievements

Macao’s endeavors have garnered significant attention. In the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), published by Mastercard and CrescentRating, the city entered at 16th position among non-OIC destinations and secured 5th place worldwide for female travelers—a category determined by safety standards, modesty-accommodating facilities, and family suitability.

“This placement represents a transformative achievement,” remarked Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of CrescentRating. “Macao has surpassed established competitors including Japan and Thailand within just two years. The fusion of luxury amenities and authentic halal dedication is exceptional.”

The city’s compact dimensions—30 square kilometers—further enhances its attractiveness. Visitors can discover UNESCO-recognized Senado Square in the morning, attend prayers at the historic Macao Mosque (constructed in 1986 and recently refurbished), and savor halal seafood cuisine in Coloane Village by evening—all achievable without vehicular transportation.

Economic Strategy and Market Growth

This initiative serves both economic and cultural objectives. Macao received 28 million visitors in 2024, approaching pre-pandemic figures, but aims to diversify beyond mainland Chinese gaming clientele. Middle Eastern tourists, who typically spend 25 percent more per journey than the global average on halal-compliant experiences, represent a valuable opportunity.

MGTO indicates a 40 percent year-over-year growth in inquiries from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar since January. Direct flight availability has doubled on primary routes, with Emirates now providing daily connections from Dubai and Riyadh-based Flynas introducing seasonal charter services.

At Dubai’s Arabian Travel Market last May, Macao’s exhibition space—showcasing virtual reality presentations of halal-certified locations—drew over 300 tour operators. Comparable enthusiasm developed at Indonesia’s ASTINDO Travel Fair, where Macao highlighted its women-friendly attributes to the world’s largest Muslim travel demographic.

Future Developments: Ramadan 2026 and Beyond

Preparations are currently progressing for an enhanced Ramadan initiative next year. Temporary iftar locations featuring live Arabic performances, date refreshment stations, and Zamzam water service are planned for major hotel reception areas. MGTO targets certification of 100 halal establishments by December 2025, emphasizing Taipa’s developing culinary district.

For family visitors, venues like the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion now provide halal picnic areas, while the forthcoming “Halal & Heritage” guided tour will merge colonial history with visits to prayer-accommodating cafés.

Travel consultant Fatima Al-Mansoori from Abu Dhabi, who recently coordinated a group of 22 Emirati travelers to Macao, summarized the experience: “My clients desired luxury, culture, and assurance. Macao provided all three aspects. We made no compromises.”

As illumination sparkles across the Pearl River Delta, Macao’s communication is unmistakable: Asia’s equivalent to Las Vegas has adopted a fresh identity—one that embraces the call to prayer as enthusiastically as gaming entertainment.

Original Article:

Halal Times. (2025, October 29). Halal Tourism in Macao Welcomes Middle East Travelers. Retrieved from https://www.halaltimes.com/halal-tourism-in-macao-welcomes-middle-east-travelers/