WITEX 2025 ISLAMIC TOURISM CONFERENCE – 3RD EDITION: A MUST-ATTEND GATHERING FOR INDUSTRY LEADERS – Travel And Tour World

The World Islamic Tourism & Trade Conference (WITEX) 2025 is set to make its highly anticipated return this August for its 3rd edition. The event will bring together some of the most prominent figures in Islamic tourism, trade, technology, and culture, offering unparalleled insight and inspiration. Taking place on August 22-23 at the prestigious Sunway Resort Hotel in Selangor, Malaysia, WITEX 2025 is poised to shape the future of Islamic tourism in an increasingly digital world.

This year’s conference promises to deliver a dynamic platform for discussions, networking, and collaborations, with a stellar lineup of renowned local and international speakers. WITEX 2025 aims to push the boundaries of what is possible in the Islamic tourism sector, focusing on innovation, technology, and sustainability.

Notable Speakers to Watch

The conference will feature a distinguished array of speakers, including:

• Tuan Habib Ali Zaenal Abidin: A revered Islamic scholar and Chairman of Yayasan Ar-Ri’ayah, Tuan Habib Ali is known for his deep insights into spirituality and Islamic perspectives in tourism. His contributions to the intersection of faith and travel will provide valuable perspectives for attendees looking to enrich their understanding of Islamic tourism from a spiritual and cultural viewpoint.
• Chef Ismail Ahmad: Malaysia’s culinary icon and the founder of Rebung Restaurant, Chef Ismail Ahmad will headline the panel on Islamic Culinary Tourism, an emerging powerhouse within global halal travel. His expertise in halal cuisine and his experience in promoting Islamic culinary traditions will offer attendees an in-depth look at the growing sector of halal food tourism.
• Datuk Nuraslina Zainal Abidin: The Group CEO of Theta Edge Berhad, Datuk Nuraslina is driving the digital transformation in Islamic tourism with cutting-edge technologies. Her insights into how digital tools and innovation are shaping the future of tourism will be invaluable for those in the industry looking to stay ahead of technological trends and leverage new platforms.
• Dr. Shehab Alazazi: As the Director of the Islamic Business & Development Investment Council (IBDIC), Dr. Shehab Alazazi will offer key strategies on Islamic trade and investment. His experience in driving investment in the Islamic business sector will provide valuable lessons for attendees looking to expand their networks and capitalize on opportunities within the Islamic economy.
• Tuan Haji Adly Mohamed: Founder of Tayyib 360 and CEO of Citadel Group, Tuan Haji Adly is a champion of ethical Islamic business and sustainability. His focus on building businesses that are both profitable and socially responsible will resonate with attendees interested in pursuing sustainable practices within the tourism and trade sectors.
• Haji Muhammad Ruzaini bin Haji Mohd Daud, Archaeology Officer of Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Brunei—sharing Brunei’s excellence in Islamic heritage and museum curation.
• Dr. H. Sapta Nirwandar, Chairman of Indonesia Halal Lifestyle Center and Indonesia Tourism Forum

Key Themes
Over 1 1/2 dynamic days, attendees will gain invaluable knowledge on:

❖ The future of Islamic tourism post-pandemic
❖ Smart tourism, AI, blockchain, and digital transformation
❖ Halal gastronomy and culinary tourism
❖ Women-led entrepreneurship in Islamic tourism
❖ Sustainable and ethical tourism in Muslim-majority nations
❖ Islamic arts, culture, medical and wellness tourism
❖ Investment, fintech, and Takaful for tourism growth

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND

Whether you’re a policymaker, tourism operator, investor, entrepreneur, academic, or part of the global halal travel ecosystem—WITEX 2025 is your gateway to growth, global collaboration, and cutting-edge trends in Islamic tourism and trade.

With insightful panel discussions, engaging keynote addresses, and powerful networking opportunities, this is more than just a conference—it’s a movement towards shaping a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable Islamic tourism industry worldwide.

These speakers, among many others, will provide invaluable knowledge and share their expertise on how to navigate and innovate within the rapidly evolving global Islamic tourism industry.

It is poised to become a major event in the global Islamic tourism and trade sector. This third edition of the expo, organized by the Malaysia Tourism Agency Association (MATA), is designed to showcase Malaysia’s role as a leader in Islamic tourism and foster greater cooperation between nations and businesses in this rapidly growing industry. The event will be aligned with the Visit Selangor Year 2025 and act as a precursor to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a premier destination for Islamic tourism.

The theme of WITEX 2025, “Empowering the Future of Islamic Tourism and Trade through Culture and Innovation,” reflects the dual focus on preserving cultural heritage while embracing technological advancements. The expo aims to provide a platform for professionals, government officials, and the public to engage in discussions, explore business opportunities, and celebrate the diverse cultures that shape Islamic tourism. The event will feature over 150 exhibition booths from companies around the world, showcasing products and services related to Islamic tourism, halal trade, and cultural heritage, fostering networking opportunities and business collaborations among exhibitors and attendees.

One of the key components of WITEX 2025 is the World Islamic Tourism Conference (WITC), which will take place on August 22 and 23. This conference will bring together industry experts and policymakers to discuss emerging trends, sustainable practices, and challenges within the Islamic tourism sector. Topics such as Muslim-friendly travel, growth opportunities, and inclusivity in tourism will be explored, providing valuable insights for businesses and governments alike. The conference aims to provide a platform for participants to share knowledge, learn from one another, and discuss the future of Islamic tourism, which continues to see rapid growth globally.

On August 24, the Expo will culminate with a summit that brings together senior government officials, executives from tourism, aviation, and finance sectors to discuss future projects and collaborations. This summit is expected to promote cross-border investment discussions and strengthen bilateral cooperation between countries involved in Islamic tourism and trade. Through these discussions, the expo aims to promote larger-scale projects that support the growth and modernization of Islamic tourism.

In addition to the business-focused activities, WITEX 2025 will also serve as a cultural hub, with the debut of the World Cultural & Arts Festival (WCAF) 2025. This festival will provide a platform for cultural exchange, allowing visitors to experience the rich heritage of countries such as Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. The festival will feature folk performances, culinary demonstrations, and art exhibitions, offering a dynamic experience for attendees and deepening their understanding of Islamic culture and traditions. The aim is to engage the public and allow them to experience firsthand the cultural diversity that is integral to Islamic tourism.

For those interested in recognizing the achievements within the industry, the World Islamic Tourism & Trade Awards (WITA) 2025 will take place during the event. This prestigious awards ceremony, held at the Sunway Resort Hotel, will honor outstanding contributions to the Islamic tourism and trade sectors. More than 30 awards will be presented to individuals, corporations, and organizations that have demonstrated excellence in areas such as innovation, sustainability, and cultural promotion. The awards ceremony will be a highlight of the expo, bringing together industry leaders and celebrating the progress made in Islamic tourism.

The event will also feature a focus on Islamic tourism investment, with a segment dedicated to attracting investment into tourism projects across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This initiative will highlight opportunities in one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors globally, offering investors a chance to explore new markets and partnerships.

WITEX 2025 and WCAF 2025 will be supported by several prominent organizations, including Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Selangor Tourism, Etiqa Takaful, and Batik Air Malaysia, as well as international partners like the Global Islamic Tourism Organisation (GITO), World Islamic Tourism Council (WITC), and ASEAN Federation of Umrah & Hajj (AFUH). These collaborations will ensure that the event is well-supported and that it attracts high-profile participants from across the globe.

With free admission for the general public, WITEX 2025 is expected to attract a wide range of visitors, from tourism professionals to cultural enthusiasts. The expo will run from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, offering ample time for attendees to explore the exhibits, attend sessions, and network with other participants. Those interested in attending or exhibiting can register through the official WITEX 2025 website, ensuring a smooth and organized experience for all involved.

In conclusion, WITEX 2025 promises to be a landmark event for Islamic tourism and trade. By combining business, culture, and innovation, the event offers a comprehensive platform for exploring the future of the industry. Malaysia’s efforts to position itself as a leader in Islamic tourism are further solidified by the expo’s focus on fostering global cooperation, economic growth, and cultural exchange. With a strong lineup of exhibitions, conferences, and cultural programs, WITEX 2025 is set to be a key moment in the development of Islamic tourism and trade, bringing together stakeholders from around the world to shape the future of this dynamic sector.