WITEX 2025: Malaysia Welcomes the World to the Heart of Islamic Tourism

Published on May 14, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

This August, Malaysia will roll out the red carpet for a gathering that blends purpose with passion—a celebration where faith-inspired journeys, responsible business, and vibrant heritage take center stage. From 22 to 24 August 2025, the spotlight will shine on Sunway Resort Hotel in Bandar Sunway, Selangor, as the World Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo (WITEX) 2025 returns for its much-anticipated third edition.

But WITEX 2025 is more than just an industry event—it’s a living, breathing mosaic of cultures, values, and forward-thinking ideas. Here, halal travel isn’t just promoted; it’s reimagined. Here, traditions aren’t just remembered; they’re celebrated and transformed into new opportunities. From global brands to grassroots artisans, everyone at WITEX shares one vision: to build a future where Islamic tourism and ethical trade aren’t the alternative—they’re the standard.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking meaningful partnerships, a policymaker shaping inclusive travel policies, or a curious traveler eager to explore authentic experiences, WITEX 2025 offers a space where connection meets conviction.

From AITEX to WITEX: A Bold Leap Towards Global Vision

What started in 2023 as a regional gathering known as AITEX has grown into something far more powerful. With international participation surging and more than 15,000 visitors in 2024 alone, organizers knew it was time to take a bold step forward. And so, at the CEO Summit last year, AITEX officially evolved into WITEX, a name that now reflects a truly global ambition.

Today, WITEX is proudly organized by the Malaysia Tourism Agency Association (MATA), with support from MOTAC, WITC, GITO, and powerful regional partners like the BRICS Tourism Alliance and the ASEAN Federation of Umrah & Hajj. Together, they’re turning Malaysia into a vibrant hub for Islamic tourism and commerce.

Faith, Culture, and Commerce Under One Roof

WITEX 2025 isn’t just for industry insiders—it’s for everyone who believes in the power of ethical travel, meaningful business, and cultural exchange.

Here’s what makes WITEX 2025 so special to trade industry leaders:

• Islamic Tourism Expo: Projecting Umrah & Hajj packages, halal hospitality, faith-friendly destinations, and cutting-edge travel tech from across the Islamic world and promote halal tourism worldwide.
• Islamic Trade & Jewellery Expo: A shopper’s delight, featuring everything from halal skincare to elegant abayas, Islamic banking, and sparkling jewelry rooted in tradition.
• Finance Pavilion: Want to learn about Shariah-compliant investing or Islamic fintech? This space is dedicated to ethical finance for a global Muslim audience.
• Tourism Investment Forum: Investors, developers, and entrepreneurs will gather to discuss building the future of Islamic travel—hotels, attractions, wellness retreats, and more.
• Ministers & CEOs Summit: A high-powered policy roundtable where decision-makers shape strategies for the next phase of global Islamic tourism.
• World Islamic Tourism Conference: A two-day knowledge fest on everything from digital transformation to sustainability and empowering women in tourism.
• Business Matching & B2B Meetings: Carefully curated sessions where ideas become partnerships and plans become profitable realities.
• Consumer Experiences: Visitors will get to explore VR-based Islamic travel, check out new Umrah packages, and enter lucky draws to win flights and hotel stays.

WCAF 2025: Where Art Meets Faith

Running alongside WITEX is a feast for the senses—the World Cultural & Arts Festival (WCAF 2025). This is where heritage comes alive. Picture artisans weaving ancient patterns in real-time, chefs from ten countries serving street food from every corner of the Muslim world, and stage performances that span continents and centuries.

Whether you’re a culture buff, a family looking for fun, or someone just curious about the richness of Islamic heritage—WCAF offers a heartfelt experience you won’t forget.

WITA 2025: Honoring the Changemakers

Every movement needs its heroes. On 25 August, WITEX will close with a bang at the World Islamic Tourism & Trade Awards (WITA 2025)—a glamorous evening celebrating those who’ve gone above and beyond in Islamic tourism, trade, and innovation.

With 30+ award categories, red-carpet glam, performances by world-class artists, and special guests from around the globe, WITA will honor everything from “Islamic Tourism Personality of the Year” to “Best Muslim-Friendly Destination.”

It’s not just about awards—it’s about recognizing real impact, resilience, and vision in a rapidly growing industry.

Powered by Partners, Fueled by Purpose

WITEX 2025 thrives on strong partnerships. Leading the charge is Etiqa Takaful, ensuring the message of financial inclusion and protection reaches millions. Batik Air, the official airline partner, is flying in delegates, exhibitors, and speakers from dozens of destinations. MyCEB, Malaysia’s convention bureau, has provided essential government support.

With regional cooperation from organizations like GITO, AFUH, and the BRICS Tourism Alliance, WITEX is setting the gold standard for what collaboration in the Islamic economy should look like.

Why Malaysia, Why Now?

Malaysia has long positioned itself as a leader in halal travel, but WITEX 2025 pushes the country to a new level. It reflects a national commitment not just to host, but to lead a global movement of faith-conscious, inclusive, and sustainable tourism.

Selangor’s Sunway Resort, with its luxury amenities and Muslim-friendly services, is a fitting stage for what’s about to unfold. With world-class infrastructure and a deep cultural appreciation of Islamic values, Malaysia is where the global Islamic economy feels most at home.

Be Part of Something Bigger

In a world looking for more authentic, ethical, and enriching travel experiences, WITEX 2025 arrives at exactly the right time. It’s more than an expo—it’s a platform, a celebration, and a catalyst for change.

Whether you’re a travel agency from Turkey, a halal cosmetics startup in Indonesia, a fintech entrepreneur in the UAE, or a curious traveler from Europe—WITEX has a space for you.

Come to Malaysia.

Be inspired.

Make connections.

And help shape the future of Islamic tourism and trade.