KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 (Bernama) — Beyond its world-class shopping malls, the Federal capital continues to attract visitors from Arab countries thanks to luxurious accommodation options that offer high levels of privacy.
Adding to the appeal, travellers can enjoy a wide variety of halal cuisine, from traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes to Middle Eastern fare, making Arab visitors feel right at home.
According to the latest Tourism Malaysia statistics, the country welcomed 51,918 visitors from the Middle East between January and May 2025, comprising travellers from Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Oman, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar.
Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk P. Manoharan said Arab visitors’ preference for Kuala Lumpur is also driven by an environment that supports their lifestyle and cultural needs, including the facilities available.
“For example, Middle Eastern restaurants in Kuala Lumpur not only serve authentic dishes but also offer additional touches such as shisha lounges, Arabic music, Middle Eastern-themed décor, bilingual menus (Arabic and English), and private dining rooms for families.
“Many staff can also converse in Arabic, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere,” he told Bernama.
Nicknamed “Arab Street”, the Bukit Bintang area remains a major draw for Middle Eastern visitors, especially from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar, thanks to its strategic location near iconic shopping destinations such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, The Exchange TRX and Suria KLCC.
On accommodation preferences, Manoharan said Arab travellers prioritise privacy, often opting for luxury hotels that offer sky pool villas or private pool villas for family leisure time.
“Arab culture places strong emphasis on private space and relaxed family gatherings. That is why private pool villas are so popular with Middle Eastern visitors. Malaysia also offers these luxurious experiences at far more competitive rates compared with destinations in Europe or the United States,” he said.
For Saudi visitor Faleh Al Salem Ilyme, Malaysia’s Muslim-friendly environment and the warmth of its people are among the main reasons for returning after his first trip in 2017.
“The people here are very friendly and Malaysia is a great country. We can also easily find halal food here, which is why I came back for a holiday. This time, my friends and I visited Langkawi and we really enjoyed it,” he said.
Despite some language barriers, Faleh said it has never stopped him from exploring the country’s many attractions, thanks to the abundance of tourist-friendly spots and the readiness of locals to assist foreign visitors.
Sharing the sentiment, 18-year-old Abdullah Al Swwoe said he has spent much of his trip exploring Kuala Lumpur, drawn by its peaceful atmosphere that aligns with his Muslim lifestyle.
“I chose Malaysia because of its beauty and also its educational institutions. And of course, the large Muslim community here,” he said with enthusiasm alongside his friends.
— BERNAMA