Halal Food in Malta: Complete Travel Guide

Halal food in Malta is widely accessible, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like St Julian’s, Sliema, Valletta, and Gżira. The country hosts a growing number of halal-certified restaurants, takeaways, and supermarkets for both Muslim residents and visitors. While Malta does not have a centralised halal certification authority, many establishments source halal meat from trusted suppliers or display halal signage. Explore halal food options and halal certification standards.

Halal food in Malta refers to meals prepared according to Islamic dietary laws, which prohibit pork, alcohol, and meat not slaughtered in the name of Allah. The Muslim population in Malta remains small, estimated at around 10,000 to 15,000, but the demand for halal food has risen due to tourism and expatriate communities. Key areas with halal dining options include Turkish kebab spots, Lebanese eateries, and Indian restaurants. Ali Baba in Gżira, Moo’s Kebab in Malta, and Naan Bar in Valletta are popular halal-certified or Muslim-owned establishments.

Halal Restaurants in Malta

Malta’s halal restaurant scene has grown significantly, serving both Muslim residents and tourists, particularly from Libya and Gulf countries.

Sliema and St Julian’s: Tourist heartland with good halal options:

• Turkish restaurants and kebab shops
• Indian restaurants with halal meat
• Middle Eastern cuisine options
• Some Mediterranean restaurants with halal choices

Valletta: Malta’s capital has developing halal dining:

• Naan Bar and similar halal-friendly establishments
• Ethnic restaurants in the city center
• Seafood (naturally halal) at harbor restaurants

Gżira and Msida: Near the university with diverse food options:

• Ali Baba and Middle Eastern eateries
• Asian restaurants with halal options
• Student-friendly halal takeaways

Paola: Near Malta’s main mosque with community-oriented halal dining.

Gozo Island: Limited but some halal options in Victoria (Rabat) and tourist areas.

What Is the History of Islam in Malta?

Malta has a fascinating Islamic history:

• Arab rule (870-1091 CE): Arabs conquered Malta, introducing Islam, Arabic language, and agricultural innovations
• Maltese language: Derives from Siculo-Arabic, with Arabic roots still evident
• Place names: Many Maltese locations have Arabic origins
• Reconquest: Norman Christians recaptured Malta, ending Islamic rule
• Modern community: Small Muslim population established through recent immigration

Though Malta became strongly Catholic after the Reconquest, Arabic linguistic and cultural influences remain embedded in Maltese identity.

Is Malta a Muslim Country?

No, Malta is a predominantly Roman Catholic country—one of Europe’s most religious. The constitution recognizes Catholicism as the state religion. The Muslim population is small (approximately 10,000-15,000), primarily comprising:

• Libyan residents and visitors (historically close ties)
• Gulf Arab tourists
• South Asian immigrants
• African migrants
• Small number of converts

Despite its Catholic identity, Malta’s Mediterranean location and Arab history create some cultural familiarity with Islamic customs.

Is Malta Muslim-Friendly for Travelers?

Malta offers moderate Muslim-friendliness:

Positives:

• Growing halal restaurant options in tourist areas
• Mariam Al-Batool Mosque in Paola serves the community
• Hotels increasingly accommodate halal requests
• Mediterranean culture shares some food preferences
• Safe, welcoming tourism industry

Challenges:

• Small Muslim community limits infrastructure
• Pork and alcohol prominent in Maltese cuisine
• Limited mosques (primarily one main mosque)
• Traditional Maltese food requires adaptation
• Rural areas have minimal halal awareness

Malta works well for Muslim travelers willing to plan ahead and stick to tourist areas with halal options.

Is Malta Safe for Muslim Tourists?

Malta is very safe for Muslim tourists:

• Low crime rates, peaceful society
• No anti-Muslim incidents or discrimination
• Tolerant, tourism-oriented culture
• Strong rule of law
• Women wearing hijab face curiosity, not hostility

Malta welcomes tourists of all backgrounds. The country’s economy depends significantly on tourism, creating a hospitality-focused environment. Muslims can visit safely while practicing their faith.

How Does Malta Compare to Other European Destinations for Halal Travel?

Malta offers better halal infrastructure than some Mediterranean islands but less than mainland European destinations with larger Muslim populations.