Islamic Inspection Service - SIILHalal

Just after sunrise in Istanbul, when the Bosphorus is still wrapped in a soft mist and the city’s minarets rise in silhouette, the rhythm of centuries-old history blends seamlessly with modern tourism. As the call to prayer echoes across the historic peninsula, visitors from all over the world begin to fill Sultanahmet Square, drawn by the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and a truly unique cultural experience.

According to Euromonitor International’s 2024 global ranking, Istanbul welcomed approximately 23 million international visitors, making it the most visited Muslim city in the world — surpassing destinations such as Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, and even global icons like London and New York.

This leadership goes beyond numbers. Istanbul combines living Islamic heritage, universal historical landmarks, strategic geography between Europe and Asia, strong air connectivity, and a tourism offering that appeals to both Muslim and non-Muslim travelers. The city has become a benchmark for cultural tourism and an increasingly Muslim-friendly destination.

Istanbul’s case highlights the growing importance of tourism in Muslim-majority countries and its expanding role in the global travel and hospitality landscape.

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