Halal Tourism - Muslims friendly tourism

Forms of tourism have varied and become beyond the general and common concept. It is no more just males females gathering beaches and soft and alcoholic drinks, but a new form of tourism has been appeared recently, which is known as " Halal tourism" or " Islam and Muslims friendly tourism  ".

Halal Tourism

It is clear that halal tourism has become a rapidly growing sector in the travel and tourism market, where Muslim tourists are looking for destinations that meet their needs in line with their behavior and conservative environment that are in line with the basics of their religion in terms of diet, dress, rituals, or the tourism environment itself. The literal translation of this type of tourism is based on the word halal, meaning “permitted by God ", it is permissible according to the Islamic law, and it is intended that it is a type of tourism in which alcohol, pork, nudity, gambling and other disliked behaviors are prohibited in Islam.

With prosperity of the middle class socials and the increase in surplus income to look at luxuries, many countries are looking to attract this segment of travelers or tourists - Muslim and non-Muslim -.

Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Turkey are among the leading Islamic destinations in this type of tourism. Singapore, Thailand and the United Kingdom are among the top non-Muslim destinations that Muslims also crave.

Halal Tourism for Muslim Women

Despite Thailand being a predominantly Buddhist country, the presence of a large Muslim population in its south made it prove to be a popular destination for Muslims, especially for those with low incomes as well as lovers of authentic Thai food. As for the United Kingdom, it is expected that Muslims will multiply their expenses on their travel to UK in the coming years despite the rise in anti-Muslim movements after the recent terrorist attacks in London and Manchester.

With the development of this type of tourism and the increase in the standard of living for many nations and people, especially the middle class in Islamic societies, “ halal tourism ” has become the focus of attention of a large number of Arab, African, Asian and Islamic countries, while European and American countries try to expand and attract Muslim tourists in general and the Gulf tourists in particular.

The Gulf market is considered one of the strongest exporting markets for this type of tourism, as the Gulf tourists are spending an average of 10% for this type of tourism.

In addition, a special websites and mobile Apps has been designed for book halal tourism packages, this facilities made it very easy and useful.

From all of the above, we will try to clarify what are the advantages of halal tourism.

Advantages of Halal Tourism:

This type of tourism is based on securing the requirements of the Muslim tourist, whether related to food, places of prayer, and even transportation in addition to the means of entertainment that take into consideration the traditions and customs of the Muslim tourist, like separate and private beaches and swimming pools, in addition to canceling alcohol from restaurant's menus and others and relying on halal meat, and this kind of tourism no longer attracts Muslims only, but also conservative families too.

Halal Tourism in the United Arab Emirates UAE

Description of Halal tourism tour package:

It is a tour package to a travel destination where tour operators or tourism agencies carry out halal tourism and prepare this type of tourism offer in terms of free of alcohol services and hotels also offer halal food in addition to a number of services that meet the needs of tourists, including swimming pools and beaches for women only.

Boys over the age of 5 or 6 are not allowed to enter these places, same as the cameras and cell phone cameras are not allowed. Health clubs and gyms are open for men and women at separate times, entertainment facilities in these places are suitable for families as well as provide means of transportation and entertainment programs that never deviate from the teachings of the Islamic religion.

Now we took a simple overview about the development of halal tourism and the most important destinations that helped in its development, we will move on to the history of this type of tourism.

History of Halal Tourism:

It was not known in the past, before the emergence of Islam,  after Islam, this type of tourism was known in a similar type to religious tourism in our recent times, such as Hajj and Umrah, visiting the Islamic monuments in Mecca and Medina and other Islamic holy places. After the Islamic expansions it started to include travel to the countries that Muslims had expanded in order to know the impact of the Islamic expansions and Islam on these countries such as the most important achievements made by the early Islamic personalities in order to spread Islam in these countries and regions. Islamic.

It means that all the events of the trip are compatible with the teachings of the Islamic religion and take into consideration the lawful and the permissions in all its details.

Over the years and centuries, this type of tourism was not very famous and was limited to the wealthy Muslims who have the full financial support for this type of tourism or in general to any type of tourism. recently, the growth of this type of tourism has accelerated greatly, until it reached toa high position of fame among the Islamic nations that adhere to the Islamic religion, as well as conservative societies even if they are not Muslim.

Definition of halal tourism:

Very briefly, it is possible to define halal tourism with the following :

Due to cultural, religious and belief sensitivities, people from an Islamic background prefer to visit a country for tourism for all kinds or familiar tourism purposes that are compatible with their religious beliefs, customs and traditions, which apply to food, medicine and spiritual (religious) rituals etc…

Tourism services are provided in a way that follows the teachings of Islam in all sections of the provided tourism services, starting from traveling to accommodation and entertainment activities, programs, visits and all other provided services provided, but in halal.

Providing tour packages designed to meet the requirements and needs of Muslims, which are directly affected by the observance of their religious obligations.

Tourism offers that are considered new and undergoing rapid and robust development that use Islamic teachings and believe in them as a basis for the transportation of travelers and tourism activities.

Such tourism activities may not be based on Muslims only, but also on conservative families and families of various other religions that prefer this type of tourism because of its moral, behavioral, social and religious commitment.

The concept of the tourist in halal tourism:

It is an individual or group that adheres to the meaning of (permissible) mentioned clearly in the teachings of the Islamic religion.

The concept of the halal tourism office/agent:

It is a company or brokers who provide all the requirements of halal tourism through a tour package that is fully complies with Islamic teachings and believing.

Types of halal tourism:

It includes all known and unknown types of tourism, without exception, but in the form of tour packages that adhere to the beliefs of the Islamic religion.

Here we must completely differentiate between Islamic or religious tourism and halal tourism. The first is concerned with religious rituals, such as Hajj and Umrah, visits to mosques and holy Islamic places, while the second includes all kinds of tourism, including religious tourism, but in it all comes under the Islamic beliefs, adhered from the start of the trip until the end and it is not required to visit religious places only but the integral part of its activities.

The most famous tourist destinations in the world for halal tourism:

Indonesia:

It has many kinds of natural wonders, stunning beaches, historical monuments, as well as an abundance of amenities and facilities for families who crave halal tourism - Indonesia offers a little of everything. The largest archipelago in the world consists of many tropical islands filled with luscious white sand beaches, turquoise waters and diverse landscapes, Indonesia is a favorite destination for Muslim travelers.

Places to visit in Indonesia: Indonesia is truly a nature lover's paradise. The most visited cities in Indonesia include Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya. Other islands outside of Java with typical landscapes are also worth visiting, such as Komodo, Bali, Sumatra, Lombok, Sulawesi, Papua and Kalimantan as well.

Malaysia:

One of the most Muslim-friendly destinations in the world, Halal holidays in Malaysia are a truly unique experience for Muslim tourists. Visiting this Southeast Asian country, Malaysia offers a superb blend of halal gastronomy, impeccable hospitality and multi-ethnic multiculturalism. The country's incomparable cultural and historical heritage is so rich, as well as its expertise in halal hospitality, makes it a delight place for the Muslim travelers and conservative families. Malaysia's stunning resorts and lush tropical landscapes make it one of the most beloved destinations and best place for halal holidays.

Places to visit in Malaysia: Malaysia boasts is rich cultural heritage, to many wonderful cuisines, to a large variety of annual festivals, to traditional architecture, rural crafts, and natural beauty, Malaysia is truly a halal holiday destination.

Best places to visit in Malaysia are Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Borneo, Penang, Taman Negara, Cameron Highlands, Malacca, Langkawi and it is one of the major attractions in Malaysia.

Turkey:

Turkey is distinguished by its culturally and religiously rich climate and vitality, it is a wonderful destination with a mixture of delicious Turkish cuisine, World Heritage sites, and the glorious remnants of many huge empires returning from past eras, along with the typical European civilization, the beautiful upscale appearance, and the traditional Turkish culture, there is something In Turkey makes you fall in love with its instantly. If you are looking for halal holidays in both Europe and Asia, Turkey should be at the top of your bucket list.

Places to visit in Turkey: Topkapi Palace, the Bosphorus, Sultanahmet Mosque, Cappadocia, and Anatolia are among the most interesting attractions in Turkey. Istanbul, Antalya, Ani, Oludeniz, Izmir, and Konya are a few of the most visited cities in Turkey and are definitely worth seeing.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:

A land of amazing natural beauty, charming ancient cities, world-class diving opportunities in the Red Sea, stunning landscapes of Asir mountains, and Muslim haven to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah - there is no doubt that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is among the countries of the world that are considered Best halal-friendly holiday destinations for Muslims.

The most important places to visit in Saudi Arabia: Makka and Madina are among the first tourist destinations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as two sacred sites for Hajj and Umrah. In addition to other cities that may include Jeddah, Dammam, Riyadh, Taif and Tabuk.

United Arab Emirates:

The most important places to visit in the United Arab Emirates: Include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, Ajman, Fujairah, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. Apart from its most famous cities, you can visit a few of the top tourist attractions such as the Grand Mosque, Marina Mall, Yas Island, Emirates Zoo, Dubai Dolphinarium, Burj Khalifa, Palm Beach Jumeirah and others there are many, many more.

Egypt:

Unlike Morocco, Egypt is another North African country that have exceptional popularity when it comes to halal tourism, regardless of its immense and rich cultural and historical heritage since ancient times, besides offering cultural holidays, Egypt is one of the best halal holiday destinations in the world, offering a wide range of hotels, restaurants and halal food.

The most important places to visit in Egypt: You can visit the pyramids and Sphinx in Cairo, temples and tombs in Luxor and Aswan, or take a short trip on camel rides, or experience a dinner cruise along the Nile River via a beautiful river cruise.

Morocco:

Morocco is known for its unique culture, where modernity meets traditional Islam, halal food, mosques and friendly locals, Morocco has become a destination for Muslims and non-Muslim tourists alike, and it is also a cheap Islamic holiday destination. A Muslim country with a mixture of Central European relics, Morocco ranks among the most popular Muslim-friendly destinations in the world. As most of the residents are Muslims, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience savoring delicious halal food and enjoying a comfortable stay in halal holiday resorts and the best halal hotels in Morocco.

Top places to visit in Morocco: Marrakech has some of the most luxurious halal resorts that can provide you a comfortable stay in the city. There are many places to see in Morocco, such as Hassan II Mosque - the second largest mosque in the world located in Casablanca, Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque in Morocco, the Koutoubia Mosque, Fez El Bali, and Irak Chebbi.

Sultanate of Oman:

One of the tourist destinations around the world which already have taken measures to attract families to engage in halal tourism by ensuring the quality of halal food, as well as exclusive services and facilities such as private beaches, swimming pools for women, and much more. The traditional Sultanate of Oman is full of mesmerizing Islamic architecture and breathtaking natural beauty, making Oman one of the most surprising destinations for halal tourism.

Top Places to Visit in Oman: Muscat, the capital of Oman, with its shimmering golden minarets, is one of the most halal destinations in Oman. Other tourist attractions include the Hajar Mountains, Dhofar, Musandam, Sharqiya, Wahiba Sands, Bahla Fort, Wadi Bani Awf, and much more.

Hong Kong:

It has all the things that Muslim tourists yearn for, and much more. It is a Muslim-friendly place with a Muslim-friendly airport that has quiet prayer rooms. In addition, it includes more than 75 halal-certified restaurants and a number of hotels with halal restaurants that have halal certification to meet the food requirements of tourists and the general Islamic taste requirements. You can also make a visit with your kids to Hong Kong Disneyland, which is a great option. It is the only Disneyland in the world that offers halal certified food. Hong Kong Disneyland also has a prayer room which is conveniently located next to the restaurant and is well equipped with ablution facilities. Another amazing amusement park is Ocean Park that offers family-friendly rides, facilities and halal food. There are beautiful places to visit in Hong Kong such as the beautiful Kowloon Mosque and the Jama Masjid. You can also take a trip on Ngong Ping, a sophisticated cable car service that takes you to the top of Hong Kong, that will give you some spectacular views.

Jordan:

The famous lost city of Petra, is a land of beauty and captivating diversity, traveling to Jordan is like a time travel. From dramatic red sands to the busy streets of Amman, to steep cliffs, vast stony plains made of volcanic basalt, steep hills rich with olive trees, and the magnificent Petra and Jerash ruins, Jordan pulses with life and incomparable charm. Jordan is one of the best Muslim-friendly travel destinations.

The most important places to visit in Jordan: Petra, which is the most valuable treasure in Jordan and the most attractive to tourists in the city, Aqaba, Amman, Irbid, Jerash and Ajloun, as well as halal tourists can enjoy the clear waters of the Dead Sea and the vast Wadi Rum desert and much more.

Halal tourism in Europe:

The following are the most important Muslim-friendly countries in Europe:

1.England  2. Bulgaria  3. Bosnia and Herzegovina  4. Cyprus  5. Spain and others.

Contact author:

Suhair Khan
suhairanwarkhan@gmail.com