Taiwan, a vibrant island nestled in East Asia, is emerging as a top choice for Muslim travelers seeking a destination that blends modern experiences with rich culture and faith-friendly hospitality. With deliberate government initiatives, comprehensive halal tourism infrastructure, and engaging travel campaigns, Taiwan has positioned itself as a welcoming destination for the global Muslim market.
During a presentation at the Halal in Travel Global Summit 2025 by Abe Chou (Taiwan Tourism), Taiwan showcased its ongoing commitment to becoming a leading Muslim-friendly destination. From its geographic advantages to Muslim-focused resources and campaigns, the presentation offered a holistic view of Taiwan’s strategy to meet the expectations of Muslim travelers.
Taiwan spans 36,000 square kilometers and is home to a population of 23.45 million people. While compact in size, Taiwan offers a wide range of experiences across its regions—each with distinct scenery, climate, and activities. The island’s transportation system allows seamless travel, with the Taiwan High-Speed Rail connecting the north to the south in just two hours.
Visitors can enjoy an eclectic mix of modern attractions and natural wonders. In the north, double-decker bus fine dining provides a unique way to view the cityscape of Taipei. In the central region, wind turbine beaches offer a scenic escape with impressive views, particularly at sunset. The southern coast is known for its thriving marine life, including green sea turtles, while the eastern region captivates travelers with colorful flower fields and locally crafted sculptures.
In addition to mainland travel, Taiwan’s offshore islands such as Penghu, Green Island, Orchid Island, and Little Liuqiu offer diverse landscapes, cultural immersion, and laid-back island charm. Scenic train journeys like the Formosa Railway and the Alishan Forest Railway, known for its wooden carriages and guided overnight tours, further enrich the travel experience.
Taiwan’s commitment to Muslim-friendly tourism is reflected in its placement as the third-ranked non-OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) destination in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024. This achievement is backed by years of policy development, hospitality upgrades, and targeted services designed for Muslim visitors.
The island is home to ten mosques, including the well-known Taipei Grand Mosque and Taichung Mosque, providing worship facilities to both local Muslims and tourists. Muslim-friendly accommodations have also grown, with 211 certified establishments that offer qibla direction, prayer mats, washing facilities for ablution, and prayer schedules.
The halal dining scene continues to expand, with over 300 restaurants holding halal certification. These establishments are monitored by trusted organizations such as the Chinese Muslim Association, the Taiwan Halal Center, and the Islamic Association of Taiwan. Dining environments are also adapted to Muslim needs, with specific utensils cleaned and stored separately to ensure halal integrity. Popular dishes, including the renowned Taiwan beef noodle, are available in halal versions, making culinary exploration accessible and enjoyable for Muslim guests.
At major transport hubs such as Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei Main Station, and high-speed rail stations, prayer rooms are readily available, ensuring convenience for travelers maintaining their daily religious practices. Shopping areas have also introduced designated halal zones, where Muslim visitors can find faith-compliant products with ease.
Taiwan has also rolled out a range of marketing initiatives aimed at creating awareness and boosting interest from Muslim-majority countries. In Malaysia, the "Jom Taiwan" campaign has been particularly successful in promoting the island as a destination that delivers meaningful and memorable travel experiences. This campaign highlights city adventures, romantic getaways, cultural immersion, and eco-tourism tailored to Muslim preferences.
Celebrity partnerships have added a relatable and aspirational element to the country’s marketing strategy. Collaborations with well-known figures such as Mira Filzah, Aida Jebat, and Nabila Razali have helped present Taiwan’s attractions in a compelling light to younger audiences in Southeast Asia. These partnerships are further amplified through outdoor advertising, including LED displays, monorail branding, and Grab car campaigns in urban areas.
To complement media exposure, Taiwan has also focused on immersive experiences for key stakeholders. Media and familiarization (fam) trips invite journalists and influencers to experience Taiwan firsthand, allowing them to share authentic stories with their audiences. Events such as the "Best of Salam Taiwan Awards" recognize outstanding efforts by local businesses and hospitality providers in serving Muslim travelers.
Sustaining Taiwan’s growth as a Muslim-friendly destination requires industry-wide engagement. To that end, the Taiwan Tourism Administration conducts regular training programs for travel agents, equipping them with the latest insights, itineraries, and best practices. These programs ensure that travel professionals are well-prepared to meet the expectations of Muslim clients, from booking halal hotels to scheduling prayer times during tours.
Taiwan’s presence at travel fairs has also increased, with Salam Taiwan pavilions hosted in shopping malls and tourism expos. These platforms serve as opportunities to showcase Muslim-friendly offerings while connecting directly with travelers and trade partners.
On the digital front, Taiwan is making information accessible through updated websites and active social media channels. Travel guides and brochures are available in Bahasa Melayu, making it easier for travelers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei to plan their trips. Integration with Google Maps allows users to search for nearby halal restaurants, streamlining meal planning for Muslim visitors.
To encourage travel and enhance the value proposition for Muslim tourists, Taiwan has introduced a variety of incentives. Independent travelers can participate in lucky draws, while those purchasing full travel packages receive free gifts. One of the most popular offerings is the Taiwan Pass, which includes unlimited three-day access to the Taiwan High-Speed Rail, metro systems, and tourist shuttle buses. Special high-speed rail discounts are also available exclusively for foreign visitors.
These benefits not only reduce travel costs but also increase convenience, allowing Muslim tourists to explore the country with greater flexibility and comfort.
Taiwan’s multi-pronged approach has established the island as a rising star in the Muslim-friendly travel space. Its compact size and advanced transport systems make it an ideal destination for short, fulfilling trips, while its diversity in landscapes and attractions ensures that every traveler finds something to enjoy.
What sets Taiwan apart is its genuine effort to create an inclusive and respectful environment for Muslim visitors. Whether through certified halal food, dedicated prayer spaces, or culturally sensitive hospitality, Taiwan’s tourism ecosystem continues to evolve with the needs of Muslim travelers in mind.
Watch the full panel on YouTube here.
To see more of the Halal In Travel Global Summit 2025 sessions, please visit this page.
