The International Halal Tourism Organization (IHTO) will lead the Maldives’ presence at the Muslim Travel Show 2026 in London, positioning the island nation as a key player in the fast-expanding global halal tourism market.

The event, recognised as one of the world’s largest halal and Muslim-friendly travel exhibitions, will take place from 7 to 8 February 2026 at ExCeL London.​

IHTO’s initiative is officially backed by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives), the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), the Maldives Boating Association (MBA), and the Guest House Association of Maldives (NHGAM).

The collaboration underscores a coordinated national effort to tap into the growing demand from Muslim travelers seeking destinations that align with their cultural and religious needs.​

The Muslim Travel Show 2026 is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors and over 200 exhibitors from across the global travel industry over two days.

Participants will include airlines, airports, national tourism boards, hotels and resorts, online travel agencies, travel technology firms, and halal-friendly lifestyle brands, making it one of the most concentrated gatherings of the international Muslim travel ecosystem.​

For the Maldives, the show offers a high-impact platform to promote its resorts, guesthouses, liveaboards, marine tourism operators, and family-oriented, halal-friendly experiences to both trade partners and consumers.

Governments and major brands use the show to launch Muslim-friendly tourism strategies, showcase halal-compliant services, and build long-term partnerships and distribution networks, benefits the Maldives aims to leverage through its national stand.​

The global Muslim travel segment is described as one of the fastest-growing areas in tourism, with an estimated current annual market value of USD 200–300 billion and a projected size of USD 500 billion by 2035.

In 2024, Muslim international travelers numbered around 176 million, representing 25% growth compared to 2023, with forecasts suggesting 245 million travelers and USD 230 billion in travel spending by 2030.

Muslim travelers are noted for their strong brand loyalty, repeat visits, and trust in destinations that respect their faith-based requirements.​

Through its participation, IHTO aims to raise global awareness of the Maldives as a Muslim-friendly destination, strengthen cooperation across local tourism sectors, and encourage innovation and standardisation in halal tourism services.

The organisation also seeks to drive strategic partnerships, support market expansion, and secure early visibility for Maldivian stakeholders in a rapidly evolving and competitive segment.​

IHTO is inviting eligible Maldivian tourism businesses to join the Maldives National Stand at the Muslim Travel Show 2026 as part of the country’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable tourism.

Interested stakeholders can register via the organisation’s website at www.ihto.org or by emailing [email protected], and may obtain further details by contacting IHTO at +960 946-6777.