Hong Kong continues to make progress in becoming a Muslim-friendly destination of choice, with enhanced services and facilities that cater to the needs of Muslim travellers.
A key milestone in Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HKTB) efforts is the increasing number of hotels participating in Crescent Rating’s (CR) accreditation program — a program rating hotel on their Muslim-friendliness developed by Crescent Rating, an internationally renowned Muslim travel marketing company.
As of February 2025, 52 hotels in Hong Kong have successfully obtained an accreditation rating from Crescent Rating, depending on the Muslim-friendly facilities available at the hotels. In addition, Hong Kong has significantly expanded its selection of Halal-certified and Muslim-friendly restaurants, accredited by Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong (Board of Trustees).
The city now has 153 Halal-certified and Muslim-owned eateries offering visitors a wider array of culinary options, up from around 100 Halal-certified eateries when HKTB first launched its Muslim-friendly push in June 2024.
The impact of these efforts is already evident with arrivals from Indonesia and Malaysia increasing by 43% and 50% year-on-year respectively. This reflects the strong travel interest of Indonesians and Malaysians towards Hong Kong. This increased demand would encourage more local businesses in Hong Kong to jump on this initiative to cater to the needs of Muslim travellers and would then further augment Hong Kong’s appeal as a Muslim-friendly destination.
Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has been working closely with local tourism stakeholders to facilitate a better understanding of Muslim travellers’ needs through training programs and guiding them through the accreditation process. These consistent efforts have enhanced the experience of Muslim travellers and deepened the understanding of Halal and Muslim-friendly requirements among local tourism stakeholders.
Ms Liew Chian Jia, Regional Director of Southeast Asia, HKTB, stated, “We are incredibly happy and encouraged by the positive progress we have achieved over the past year. Today, more attractions, restaurants and hotels are being accredited, which reflects Hong Kong’s enthusiasm in ensuring the best experience for Muslim travellers. We are dedicated to position Hong Kong as a top Muslim-friendly destination, especially for Indonesia and Malaysia, and we look forward to welcoming more Muslim guests to experience the best of Hong Kong in 2025 and beyond.”
HKTB remains focused on developing visitor sources from key Muslim markets including Indonesia and Malaysia. The Board has also increased promotional efforts to showcase Hong Kong as a prime destination for Muslim travellers.
5 Must-Try Halal-Certified Dining Experiences in Hong Kong
To help Muslim travellers explore the city with ease, here are some new spots that offer Halal-certified and Muslim-friendly options:
- Chinesology
Hong Kong’s first Muslim-friendly fine-dining Chinese restaurant, Chineseology, has received Halal certification as part of HKTB’s effort in collaboration with the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong (Board of Trustees). Chinesology offers an elevated dining experience with a selection of Halal-certified Chinese dishes. The restaurant’s elegant interior, featuring premium wood, sleek marble, and lush greenery, is enhanced by high ceilings, mirrors, and French windows. This creates a modern yet warm ambiance that perfectly complements its refined culinary offerings.
Address: Shop 3101, Podium Level 3, IFC Mall, Central, Hong Kong
2. Cuisine Cuisine
Cuisine Cuisine at The Mira is an upscale, restaurant offering exquisite modern Cantonese and Chinese delicacies with a contemporary twist. Recommended by the Michelin Guide Hong Kong & Macau since 2012, it features a dining experience rooted in revered Cantonese culinary traditions, curated by Chinese Executive Chef Edwin Tang. The menu features authentic signature dishes and creative dim sum with halal choices, as well as seasonal specials, all showcasing the art of Cantonese cuisine while respecting the unique taste of each ingredient.
Address: 3/F, The Mira Hong Kong, Mira Place, 118 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
3. Dorsett Tsuen Wan – Dorsett Café
In a move toward greater inclusivity, Dorsett Café at Dorsett Tsuen Wan has removed pork from its menu and achieved full Halal certification. The restaurant offers a diverse selection of Halal-friendly dishes, including a breakfast buffet, set menus, and in-room dining options. To further accommodate Muslim guests, Dorsett Café is also launching a special Ramadan buffet, ensuring a comfortable and delicious dining experience during the holy month.
Address: 28 Kin Chuen Street, Kwai Chung, Kowloon, Hong Kong
4. Kowloon Shangri-La
The renowned Kowloon Shangri-La hotel is embracing Muslim-friendly dining with its Halal-certified offerings at Café Kool. Recognized as a “Halal-Friendly Restaurant,” Café Kool has curated a thoughtful Ramadan buffet, allowing Muslim guests and travellers to enjoy a rich selection of dishes that reflect the region’s diverse culinary heritage. This initiative ensures that Muslim visitors have easy access to high-quality Halal dining options during their stay.
Address: 64 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
5. Local Confectionery Brands
Hong Kong’s traditional treats are also becoming more accessible to Muslim visitors. Some notable Halal-certified options include:
● Kee Wah Bakery – Founded over 86 years ago, Kee Wah Bakery is a renowned Hong Kong bakery preserving traditional Chinese baking artistry. It is now a globally recognized brand and a top souvenir choice. Halal certified cookies will be available in their 70 stores in Hong Kong from 1 April 2025.
Address: Various outlets here
● PIN Cookies – These locally made cookies blend traditional Cantonese flavors with innovative ingredients, offering both sweet and savory (or even spicy) varieties to suit every craving.
Address: Shop 3022A, Podium Level 3, ifc mall, Central, Hong Kong (Central Branch)
● Fine Foods Shop – The Royal Garden’s renowned patisserie, Fine Foods Shop, offers
‘best in town’ Original Butterfly Cookies, halal-friendly and freshly homemade every day, The dough is rolled for at least six times, sprinkled with white sugar then cut into a beautiful butterfly shape. The delicate crispy texture tastes like it’s melting in your mouth by layers. They are all accented with a touch of French flair and available for customers to take home for that special occasion.
Address: Lobby, The Royal Garden, 69 Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong or at various outlets here
HKTB remains committed to enhancing Muslim-friendly offerings, continuously working with hospitality and F&B partners to provide an inclusive experience for all visitors. With growing recognition and positive reception from Muslim travellers, Hong Kong is well on its way to establishing itself as a premier destination for Muslim-friendly tourism in the region. As more stakeholders come on board and initiatives expand, Muslim visitors can look forward to an even more welcoming Hong Kong in the years to come.
Muslim travellers planning a trip to Hong Kong can refer to HKTB’s Muslim Travel Page for more information on the city’s Muslim-friendly facilities, services, and attractions. The page will be regularly updated with newly accredited Muslim-friendly establishments.
Website: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/explore/muslim-travel.html
