Malaysia is open to investors and business travellers, according to Tourism Malaysia, which is attending the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai this week and launching its #WeMissYou campaign for the Middle East.

Short-term business visitors to Malaysia are already exempt from mandatory quarantine, and the government is now preparing to reopen its borders safely, with a nationwide vaccination programme presently being implemented.

Prior to the pandemic, travellers from all over the world would travel to Malaysia to see its stunning sights and great hospitality while immersing themselves in the country's rich culture. Times have changed, and the country is eager to welcome visitors to its lively cities and quiet islands once more.

In line with this, Tourism Malaysia has created the #WeMissYou campaign, aimed mostly at the Middle East area, to emphasise the nostalgia it feels for visitors roaming around Malaysia's spectacular attractions.

 
“In 2019, Malaysia welcomed 309,224 tourists from the GCC. This amounted to a tourist expenditure of RM 3.2 billion (AED 2.8 billion) that year, signifying the highest (per capita expenditure) as compared to other tourists to Malaysia. Considering the current state of international travel, we are looking at the year 2025 for travel to return to normal, and have earmarked the GCC as one of our important market," said Ambassador of Malaysia to the UAE, Mohd Tarid Bin Sufian. 

GCC nationals can get a visa on arrival, and major carriers from the region, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, Saudia, Qatar Airways, and others, provide direct flights to Malaysia.

The Malaysian classic traditional trishaw, popularly known as beca, is on display in the Malaysia Pavilion for the duration of the Arabian Travel Market 2021 to promote its distinctive heritage. Traditional Malacca trishaw manufacturers handcrafted and customised the three-wheel beca, which took two months to manufacture and assemble. It depicts a distinct feature of Malaysian culture, heritage, and society.

Malaysia was just awarded the number one Muslim tourist destination for the eighth year in a row, based on variables such as Halal food availability, prayer facilities, Muslim-friendly hotel amenities, and general safety and security.

Once the travel sector regains its footing, the demand for halal tourist options is likely to expand rapidly as a growing number of Muslims travel around the world. Malaysia recognises the demands of GCC visitors and makes Halal food readily available in a variety of local and international cuisines, including Arab cuisine.