In addition to Europe's tourism categories such as 'family friendly' or 'environmentally friendly', a category for Middle Eastern and Gulf nations entitled 'halal friendly' has now been added to desirable destination lists.

Not only has Turkey experienced almost a 30 percent increase in numbers of tourists to visit the nation from the Middle East and Gulf nations, now Turkey has placed third in a listing of 'halal friendly' hotels. According to a list by 'CrescentRatings Halal Friendly Travel (CRaHFT) 2012', which is influential in the selection of holiday destinations by tourists from Middle Eastern countries, Malaysia placed first, Egypt second and Turkey came in third.

The listing takes into consideration the distribution of 'halal friendly' restaurants, where Arab tourists can partake in meals that are prepared in accordance to Islamic rules throughout their vacation, as well as sites where they can fulfill their religious obligations, distribution of mosques, transportation and availability of activities that would appeal to families.

Based on votes by Middle Eastern tourists, the list compiled by crescentrating.com, suggests Turkey as a destination for Arab tourists by stating: "You can comfortably eat in restaurants in Turkey. After dinner make sure to try the baklava." The website also states that transportation to mosques where visitors can pray is very easy and that there is no limit to the numbers of Halal restaurants and family activities.

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