On the 22nd and 23rd September, world’s first ever conference on Halal Tourism took place in Spain that welcomed 300 delegates from all over the world. The market experts, hoteliers and tour operators gathered to get an insight into halal tourism and its potential in travel business.
For those who are still unfamiliar with the concept, here’s what you need to know:
Halal Tourism defined:
The word “Halal” means permissible. It refers to everything that is permissible and lawful for Muslims. So halal tourism is a vacation or holiday for Muslims that does not violate the rules of Islam and teachings of Quran.
What are the specific travel requirements for Muslims?
Islam is a universal religion and the rules of halal and haram do not vary according to the variations in cultures or ethnicity. Muslims who abide by the rules of religion, when go on a holiday, demand that the food they eat is halal having no derivative from pig and the livestock must be slaughtered according to the Islamic way. They do consume alcohol too. Other than the dietary dos and don’ts, practising Muslims do not allow gender mixing as well. This implies that they need segregated arrangements at a pool, beach etc. Besides other things, they need an easy access to the prayer place as well.
Recognition by Travel and Tourism Industry:
With a significant increase in the number of Muslim travellers, the travel and tourism operators are taking steps in providing packages specifically for the Muslims so they get to enjoy their holiday without the worry of violation of religious rules. To increase the client base and preparing strategies to adapt to the needs of Muslims is the new point of attention in the tourism market.
Amongst the Muslim and the non-Muslim countries, Malaysia is scoring the highest position in halal tourism with the availability of halal hotels that provide food and all the amenities according to the requirements of the Muslims. The cultural festivities, segregated pools, mosques and halal food along with the captivating natural beauty, Malaysia has surely gained attention of the Muslim travellers.
Muslims make 1.8 billion of the world population and with an increasing ease and affordability of travelling, the number of Muslim tourists has increased too. The tourism market and hospitality industry, if ready to evolve with this trend, would greatly benefit from the potential Muslim travellers.