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A rising trend is making a significant impact on the revival of global tourism, and it may be familiar to you even if you’re unaware of it.
Halal Tourism, which encompasses Muslim-friendly travel experiences, is becoming a dominant force, reshaping the landscape of tourism worldwide. From the enchanting calls to prayer in Bali’s renowned beach resorts to Spain’s historical cities showcasing their Moorish heritage, this concept is gaining immense popularity.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of Muslims embark on journeys to explore new destinations and unwind. However, for many, traditional resorts do not offer suitable entertainment options, posing a challenge for Muslim travelers.
With the increasing number of Muslim tourists, the global tourism industry is adapting and introducing a new holiday concept tailored to the 2 billion-strong Muslim population.
Understanding ‘Halal Tourism’
Halal tourism refers to a specific segment of tourism designed for Muslim families adhering to Islamic values.
The term “halal,” meaning “permissible” in Arabic, goes beyond merely adhering to Islamic dietary laws. It encompasses all aspects of life, including leisure activities, hospitality services, and ethical business practices.
Halal tourism ensures that services and facilities are free from non-Islamic activities or substances, such as alcohol. It offers features such as prayer facilities, halal food, and separate swimming pools or spa facilities for men and women.
The growth of this sector aligns with the increasing disposable income among the global Muslim population and a broader trend toward faith-based ethical consumption.
According to the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) report, Muslim travel spending is projected to reach $300 billion by 2026, a significant increase from $180 billion in 2019. This sector currently accounts for 12% of global travel expenditure, highlighting its promising potential.
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Driven by efforts to boost tourism in countries like Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia and the revitalization of historical sites, the demand for halal travel is on the rise.
As more destinations within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) embrace halal tourism, the discovery of alluring treasures catering to Muslim tourists becomes increasingly common.
The upcoming generation of Muslims, as they enter the workforce, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future expansion of this sector, as indicated in a recent report by UnivDatos Markets Insights.
Countries Embracing the Trend
Leading the way in this sector are countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Malaysia and Indonesia.
However, even non-Muslim-majority countries are joining the trend.
Japan, for example, has made efforts to become more Muslim-friendly by hosting “Muslimah Fashion Shows” and bolstering its halal-certified food industry. Spain, with its rich Islamic history, has developed halal tours in cities like Granada and Cordoba, reviving its Moorish past for visitors.
Nevertheless, it is Turkey that stands out as the frontrunner, recognized as the world’s most Muslim-friendly travel destination by the GMTI. From its Ottoman-era mosques to halal beach resorts along the Aegean Sea, Turkey showcases the potential of halal tourism. Beyond traditional tourist offerings, the country excels in providing Islamic financial services, halal cosmetic shops, and fashion outlets featuring modest clothing.
The annual GMTI report analyzes data from over 140 countries worldwide to identify the best destinations for the growing halal travel segment.
However, halal tourism is not solely about catering to a niche audience; it is about embracing diversity in the tourism sector. The increasing interest from both Muslim-majority and non-Muslim-majority countries in tapping into this market underscores the concept’s appeal and commercial viability.
As the Muslim middle class continues to expand, and with
the world becoming more interconnected, the industry is expected to experience exponential growth, presenting significant opportunities for destinations worldwide.
