Why Muslim Expats Are Choosing Malaysia Over Dubai & Turkey

For expats looking for a safe, affordable, and welcoming country that aligns with Islamic values, Malaysia stands out among popular destinations. While countries like Turkey, Egypt, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia are often considered, Malaysia offers the best combination of modern infrastructure, low cost of living, religious freedom, and long-term residency options.

Malaysia has become a top choice for those who want to live and work in Malaysia, thanks to its multicultural country, strong economy, and high quality of life. This article explores why expats chose Malaysia over other Muslim-majority countries and how it provides a unique balance between Islamic law and modernity.

Why Expats Consider Moving to Malaysia

Many expats seek a better quality of life, whether for financial reasons, lifestyle improvements, or stronger Islamic environments. The key factors they look for in a new country include:

• Islamic-friendly laws and culture in Malaysia, including halal food, mosques, Islamic finance, and religious freedom
• Affordability, where the cost of living is reasonable compared to Western countries or expensive Gulf states
• Modern infrastructure, with reliable public transport, healthcare, internet, and business opportunities
• Long-term stability and visa options, including Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) and work visas
• A welcoming expat community in a multicultural country, with diverse and multicultural ethnic groups

While Turkey, Egypt, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia each offer advantages, life in Malaysia outperforms them in several key areas.

Comparing Malaysia with Other Muslim-Majority Countries

Turkey – A Great Country, But With Challenges

Turkey is a popular choice due to its Islamic law, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture in Malaysia. However, many expats face significant challenges:

• Language barrier – English is not widely spoken, making daily life and business transactions difficult
• Economic instability – The Turkish Lira has suffered massive inflation, making life more expensive for expats
• Property market issues – After the Ukraine war, housing prices skyrocketed due to high demand
• Liberal society – While Turkey has Islamic roots, some cities are more secular, which may not appeal to those looking for a stronger faith-based lifestyle

Egypt – Strong Islamic Culture, But Economic and Political Concerns

Egypt is home to one of the strongest Islamic cultures and institutions like Al-Azhar University. Many expats move to Egypt for:

• Affordable living costs, with housing, food, and transportation cheaper than in Gulf countries
• A strong Muslim identity, with a deeply religious society and access to scholars and imam-led learning

However, there are drawbacks:

• Political instability, with governance issues that have persisted over the years
• Weak infrastructure, with unreliablepublic transport, healthcare, and essential services
• Economic challenges, including rising inflation and low wages, making it difficult for expats to earn a stable income

Dubai and the Gulf States – High Standards, But Expensive and Restrictive

The UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are known for luxury, economic opportunities, and sharia law. Many expats consider these locations for:

• Strong Islamic influence, where Islamic law is strictly followed
• Tax-free income in some Gulf countries, making them attractive for professionals

However, the challenges are significant:

• Extremely high cost of living, with rent, schooling, and healthcare being among the most expensive in the world
• Social pressures, as places like Dubai encourage a luxury lifestyle that some Muslim and non-Muslim expats find materialistic
• No long-term security, since visit pass visas are tied to employment, meaning expats must leave if they lose their jobs
• Racial and social discrimination, as many non-Malays report difficulties integrating into local Gulf communities

Why Expats Chose Malaysia

Unlike the other countries listed, Malaysia offers a perfect balance of Islamic law, affordability, modern infrastructure, and a high quality of life.

1. A Muslim-Majority Country with Strong Islamic Values

Malaysia is a fascinating country where Islam is the official religion, with strong religious influence in everyday life. For expats, this means:

• Halal food is widely available in supermarkets, restaurants, and street vendors
• Mosques, including the famous Masjid Jamek in KL, are found in every neighborhood
• Islamic banking provides Sharia-compliant financial services
• Religious tolerance, with Muslim and non-Muslim communities coexisting peacefully

2. Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to Dubai, Turkey, and the UK, Malaysia’s cost of living is significantly lower:

• Housing – A spacious three-bedroom home can cost as little as £500 per month in cities like Penang and Malacca
• Food and groceries – Fresh, halal food is widely available at lower prices
• Healthcare – Malaysia has private schools and world-class healthcare at a fraction of Western costs
• Public transport – Affordable LRT trains, buses, and taxis make getting around Malaysia easy

3. Modern Infrastructure in Malaysia

Malaysia is a developed nation with:

• Efficient public transport, including the LRT and buses
• Fast internet and technology, with Air Asia and digital banking leading innovations
• World-class healthcare, recognized by South China Morning Post as one of the best in Southeast Asia

4. Warm and Friendly Multicultural Community

Malaysia is a diverse and multicultural society with Malays, Chinese and Indian communities. Unlike in some Gulf countries, expats in Malaysia are treated with fairness. Malaysians are welcoming, and the country maintains strong religious tolerance.

5. Beautiful Climate and Natural Beauty

Malaysia’s tropical climate is warm but not extreme like Dubai or Saudi Arabia. The country offers:

• Beaches, including Langkawi and Penang
• Jungle adventures in Peninsula Malaysia
• Malls, shopping centers, and water parks in KL and beyond

6. Long-Term Residency and Visa Options

Unlike the Gulf states, where expats must leave when their visit pass expires, Malaysia offers long-term residency options such as:

• Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H), a 10-year renewable visa
• Work and business visas, making it easier for professionals and entrepreneurs
• Pathway to permanent residency, something rarely offered in Gulf countries

Ramadan, Eid, and Public Holidays in Malaysia

For Muslims, life in Malaysia is deeply connected to Islamic traditions. Ramadan is widely celebrated, with open house gatherings and community iftars. Eid is a national public holiday, and the Malaysian government ensures all major Islamic events are recognized.

Final Thoughts Why Muslim Expats Are Choosing Malaysia

For expats looking to live in Malaysia, the country provides an ideal mix of Islamic law, economic stability, and modern conveniences. Unlike Turkey, Egypt, or Dubai, Malaysia offers long-term security, an affordable cost of living, and a welcoming multicultural country. Whether moving for business, retirement, or a fresh start, Malaysia is an amazing choice.