Arab tourists are pouring into Malaysia in increasing numbers, many choosing to holiday in an exotic Muslim state rather than face suspicion in Western countries gripped by fears of terrorism.

The number of visitors from Arab countries rose 115 percent last year to some 115,000, and is expected to soar to more than 200,000 this year, according to government statistics.

In the bustling streets of the capital Kuala Lumpur the sudden surge is evident from the number of women wearing full black robes with only their eyes showing, amidst the mini-skirted Chinese and local Muslim women in colourful headscarves.

Major hotels have begun employing Arab-speaking staff and promoting Middle Eastern cuisine to accommodate their cash-rich patrons.

"Middle East customers make up more than 35 percent of total guests, and they generally spend about RM5,000 for a 10-day stay," said Carol Chin, a spokeswoman for a leading hotel.

Tourism Minister Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir told AFP that Malaysia had made a major promotional push in the Middle East.