Global Muslim Travel Index 2026: West Java Becomes the Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Travel Destination

West Java Province has been named the region with the most promising internationally-standardized Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem development among member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This recognition further strengthens West Java's position as one of the leading destinations for Muslim travelers worldwide.

This prestigious award was announced at the Halal In Travel - Global Summit 2026. West Java brought home the title of Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Region of The Year, a category granted to areas demonstrating the most rapid progress in building Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystems.

Iendra Sofyan, Head of the West Java Provincial Tourism and Culture Office, stated that this award proves the local government's efforts to develop the tourism sector are beginning to receive global recognition.

The award was granted based on assessments from the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) compiled by Mastercard-Crescent Rating. Evaluation aspects include availability of Muslim-friendly facilities, tourism industry readiness covering hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions, local government regulatory support, program innovation, up to the effectiveness of promotions targeting the international Muslim tourist market.

This success demonstrates that West Java does not only develop tourist destinations based on natural and cultural appeal, but also prioritizes the needs of Muslim travelers through the provision of internationally standardized services.

"This award is dedicated to all travelers who visit West Java. This recognition also serves as motivation to continue improving and developing Muslim tourism in West Java, and of course to support national level assessments. Please come visit West Java Province. Thank you very much," stated Iendra.

This award is part of the GMTI Awards, an initiative that gives appreciation to the world's best Muslim-friendly tourism destinations and industry stakeholders.

Multiple other categories were also awarded, including top overall destinations, Muslim-friendly cities, sustainable destinations, and destinations recognized as most welcoming for female Muslim travelers.

Alongside the GMTI Awards held in Singapore on 18 June 2026, the Halal In Travel - Global Summit 2026 also presented three additional international award categories: Muslim-friendly Service Provider Awards, HalalTrip Travelers Choice Awards, and Halal Travel Personalities of The Year.

West Java's achievement in receiving this award is expected to further boost Indonesia's tourism competitiveness in the global halal travel market, while attracting more international visitors to the Land of Pasundan.