The Muslim Trade Forum (MTF) proudly led a UK business delegation to the 3rd Makkah Halal Forum 2026, one of the world’s leading gatherings dedicated to the global halal economy. The three-day forum brought together government leaders, international institutions, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities across halal food, tourism, logistics, manufacturing, technology and Islamic finance.
Representing the United Kingdom’s Muslim business community, the MTF delegation participated in high-level meetings, panel discussions and international networking, strengthening commercial relationships between British Muslim entrepreneurs and partners across the Muslim world.
Key highlights
Throughout the forum, MTF met senior representatives from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Islamic Chamber of Commerce & Development (ICCD), the British Consulate General in Jeddah, and delegations from Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kenya and Türkiye. These discussions focused on expanding trade, encouraging investment and creating long-term opportunities for cross-border business collaboration.
A significant milestone was the signing of two Agreements of Cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan and the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs of Azerbaijan, establishing formal partnerships to promote trade missions, business networking and future commercial engagement.
MTF expertise on the global stage
MTF members also contributed directly to the conference programme through the panel session “Halal Branding for Global Positioning.” Founding Member Ufuk Secgin, Co-Founder of Halalbooking, shared insights on building globally recognised halal brands, while Farzana Baduel, CEO of Curzon PR, moderated the discussion on branding, communications and international market positioning.
The delegation also attended the official Opening Ceremony, where H.E. Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Commerce, outlined the Kingdom’s vision for strengthening its position as a global hub for the halal economy.
Building international partnerships
Beyond the conference, MTF participated in cultural visits and informal networking events that further strengthened relationships between business leaders from around the world. The forum also provided a valuable platform for UK companies, including MTF Founding Member Dr. Ayshan Abdullah’s business Al Wadhiah, to showcase their products within the international exhibition.
Looking ahead
The Makkah Halal Forum 2026 marked another important step in MTF’s mission to connect British Muslim entrepreneurs with global markets. Through strategic partnerships, international dialogue and business engagement, the Forum continues to create meaningful opportunities for its members while strengthening the UK’s presence within the rapidly growing global halal economy.
