Hong Kong Convention Centre Receives Top Halal Certification from CrescentRating

The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) has taken a remarkable step forward in inclusivity by earning the highest halal certification, awarded by CrescentRating, a well-known consultancy in the Muslim travel market-based in Singapore. This recognition not only highlights HKCEC’s commitment to welcoming Muslim visitors but also positions Hong Kong as a more accessible destination for the growing Muslim tourism sector.

Receiving the highest halal certification is no small feat. CrescentRating’s evaluation process is stringent, taking into account a wide range of factors. At the HKCEC, these included the availability of halal-certified food, designated prayer spaces, and overall facilities designed to meet the needs of Muslim guests.

Dig deeper: Hong Kong Welcomes Muslim Travelers with Halal-Friendly Experiences

For instance, the centre has introduced dedicated prayer rooms equipped with proper ablution areas and signage that caters to Islamic practices. Dining options at the venue now feature halal-certified meals, ensuring that Muslim visitors can enjoy their time without any dietary concerns. These changes reflect a deep understanding of what makes a space truly inclusive and welcoming for diverse groups of people.

This milestone is part of a larger movement in Hong Kong to become a hub for Muslim-friendly tourism. The Hong Kong Tourism Board has already been working on promoting the city as a destination that caters to Muslim travelers. From introducing a Muslim-friendly accreditation system for hotels to certifying halal options in local restaurants, Hong Kong is gearing up to attract a demographic that is increasingly influential in the global travel market.

One standout achievement in this effort was the halal certification of Hong Kong’s first Chinese fine-dining restaurant. This move signals a significant shift in the local food scene, which is now embracing the opportunity to appeal to Muslim diners while maintaining its culinary authenticity.

Additionally, the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong have set an ambitious target: certifying over 500 restaurants as halal by 2025. This is a dramatic increase from the current 142 certified establishments and aims to make halal dining much more accessible across the city.

Globally, the Muslim travel market is expanding rapidly. According to CrescentRating, Muslim travelers spent an estimated USD 194 billion in 2019, and the numbers are expected to grow significantly. Hong Kong, with its vibrant culture and world-class infrastructure, is well-positioned to tap into this market.

By earning this certification, the HKCEC has not only strengthened its appeal to international visitors but also solidified its reputation as a top-tier venue for global events. With its enhanced facilities, the HKCEC can now host a broader range of events, including those specifically catering to Muslim participants, such as Islamic conferences, halal trade expos, and cultural festivals.

The ripple effect of this certification extends beyond HKCEC itself. It sends a strong message about Hong Kong’s dedication to embracing cultural diversity and making every visitor feel welcome. This aligns with a growing global trend of inclusive tourism, where destinations actively adapt to meet the needs of travelers from various cultural and religious backgrounds.

The city’s efforts are particularly important at a time when Muslim travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that not only offer halal-friendly services but also value their unique requirements. The move by HKCEC sets an example for other venues in Hong Kong to follow suit, ensuring that the city remains competitive on the global stage.

As the world reopens post-pandemic, the demand for halal-friendly destinations is rising. By taking proactive steps like halal certification and the development of Muslim-friendly infrastructure, Hong Kong is positioning itself as a leader in this space.

The HKCEC’s achievement is just the beginning. With ongoing initiatives from the tourism board and the private sector, the city will likely see a significant boost in Muslim visitor numbers in the coming years. This could also pave the way for new business opportunities, as more international events, particularly those focused on Islamic culture, finance, and trade, look to Hong Kong as a preferred venue.