PURSUIT OF HEALTH |
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SPORTS and recreation have become one of the world ' s fastest-growing tourism sectors, accounting for almost 10 per cent of global tourism expenditure. According to UN Tourism, sports tourism is projected to reach US $ 672 billion in 2025, reflecting the growing number of travellers who travel not only to watch sporting events but also to take part in recreational activities that promote health, adventure and cultural exchange.
As this article is written, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is captivating audiences around the world. With 48 teams competing across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada, it is the largest World Cup ever organised.
Beyond football, the tournament delivers substantial economic benefits through increased tourist arrivals, hotel occupancy, transport services, infrastructure development and destination branding.
At the same time, hosting mega sporting events poses significant challenges. International air travel increases carbon emissions, while stricter visa
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BY DR. MOHMED RAZIP HASAN
HRDC Certified Trainer,
Adjunct Professor at
Veritas University College
( VCU), Malaysia,
and Fellow at Institut
Tun Perak, Melaka
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requirements, cross-border controls, accommodation costs, security concerns and geopolitical uncertainties continue to shape travel decisions.
Sustainable planning has therefore become as important as successful event organisation.
UNITING PEOPLE
The philosophy of the FIFA World Cup extends beyond competition. It celebrates meritocracy, respect, tolerance, dignity and integrity, while uniting people from different cultures, races and religions.
Similar values are evident across other international events, including the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Formula One, badminton, tennis and golf. These competitions demonstrate discipline, resilience, teamwork, leadership and the ability to perform under pressure.
Traditional sports also contribute meaningfully to tourism. Activities such as Sepak Takraw, Gasing, Tarik Tali, dragon boat racing, kite festivals, Silat and Tai Chi offer visitors authentic cultural experiences while preserving local heritage. These traditional games strengthen
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An equally promising opportunity lies in Muslim-friendly sports tourism. The Mastercard – CrescentRating Report 2026 projects this market to reach US $ 21 billion worldwide by 2030, reflecting growing demand among Muslim travellers for destinations that combine recreation with faith-based requirements.
Many hotels and resorts now offer gyms, swimming pools, tennis and badminton courts, children ' s playgrounds, nature trails and wellness facilities. Increasingly, Muslim-friendly destinations are complementing these amenities with halal-certified food, prayer facilities, modest sportswear options, gender-sensitive arrangements where appropriate and safe, and family-oriented environments.
Islam encourages the pursuit of health and well-being, making sport and recreation an important part of a balanced lifestyle. Physical fitness also supports religious obligations such as Hajj and Umrah, where pilgrims require endurance to perform tawaf, sa ' i and other rituals.
As a result, destinations that invest in halal-friendly sports and recreational facilities will be well placed to attract a growing segment of active Muslim travellers.
At the same time, Environmental, Social and Governance( ESG) principles are increasingly important in sports tourism. The UNFCCC Sports for Climate Action Framework encourages sporting events to reduce their environmental impact, promote social inclusion and uphold good governance.
These principles are essential to ensuring tourism growth remains responsible and sustainable.
Sports tourism is therefore much more than spectators filling stadiums. It connects people across cultures, strengthens local economies, preserves heritage, promotes healthier lifestyles, and creates lasting social value.
When underpinned by sustainability and inclusivity, it becomes a powerful platform for responsible tourism and global understanding.-
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