Malaysia’s mosque tourism is fast emerging as a powerful force that not only showcases the nation’s rich Islamic heritage and stunning architecture but also unites communities, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and drives economic growth.

State and federal tourism leaders see mosque tourism as a key component in maintaining Malaysia’s leadership on the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The initiative blends heritage preservation with innovative visitor experiences, appealing to both Muslim and non-Muslim travellers.

Iconic landmarks such as Masjid Negara in Kuala Lumpur and Masjid Putra in Putrajaya attract thousands of visitors each year, with many captivated by their architectural beauty and cultural significance. Beyond these, more than 80 mosques nationwide have been identified by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) as having strong potential to be developed into Islamic tourism attractions.

ITC recommends adopting modern technologies such as virtual reality tours, augmented reality applications, and multilingual audio guides to enhance engagement. Educational initiatives highlighting al-Din—the Islamic way of life—through guided tours, workshops, and cultural storytelling are also seen as crucial to fostering mutual respect and appreciation.

By aligning mosque tourism with sustainable tourism principles and strengthening collaboration between mosque authorities, tourism boards, and technology providers, Malaysia aims to further its reputation as the world’s premier Muslim-friendly destination.