The Philippine island of Boracay becomes more inclusive as it gears up to open a special beach dedicated to Muslim travellers on 10th September.

According to the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT), the private beach set aside for the use of Muslim women is located within the Boracay Newcoast zone operated by real estate firm Megaworld.

According to DOT undersecretary for Muslim affairs Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar:  “Some Muslims can swim in public, but others would prefer to swim in a more private area.”

This Islamic tourism initiative was previously suggested by foreign diplomats based in the Philippines, including the ambassadors of Malaysia and Brunei.

Valderrosa-Abubakar explained that a meeting was held with the mayor of Boracay wherein tourism officials mentioned the need for a private area for Muslims visiting the island.

She said: “[The mayor] said he would find an area and that we made the suggestion in time as Megaworld has a coastal area [at Boracay Newcoast] that could be transformed into a private beach for Muslim women.” 

Located on the northeastern section of the island, Boracay Newcoast is also home to the Savoy Hotel which is one of the few establishments in the country to secure a Halal kitchen certification.