Shafaqna English- The Philippines has intensified efforts to tap the Qatari travel market by promoting Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism offerings at Qatar Travel Mart 2025, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with Persian Gulf visitors.
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DoT) in coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Qatar and other government agencies presented a unified national campaign at the event highlighting the country’s readiness to cater to Muslim travelers through accredited facilities, tailored services and new tourism infrastructure.
Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar said the initiative reflects “whole-of-nation” approach, involving local governments, the private sector and Muslim affairs bodies. She noted that Muslim-friendly tourism has been institutionalised through official guidelines covering staff training, prayer facilities, halal food options and alcohol-free amenities.
So far, 42 accommodation establishments nationwide have received Muslim-friendly accreditation, including multiple properties operated by Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, with others undergoing inspection. The DoT has also introduced a QR-based Muslim-friendly travel log and opened Marhaba Boracay Cove, a dedicated beach area for Muslim visitors, with similar projects planned in other destinations.
Valderrosa-Abubakar said inbound tourism has grown by about 10% year on year, describing the trend as steady. She added that the Philippines is benchmarking against Halal tourism models in Malaysia and Thailand while drawing lessons from Japan’s service sector.
The DoT sees halal tourism as a key bridge to deeper engagement with Persian Gulf markets, positioning the Philippines as an inclusive and competitive destination for Muslim travelers worldwide.
Source: Gulf Times