In the global economy's dynamic landscape, the halal concept has transcended mere dietary preferences to embody a holistic lifestyle choice with universal resonance. The growing demand for halal products and Muslim-friendly services mirrors the growth of Muslim populations, underscoring Islam as the world's fastest-growing faith. This intersection of economic principles and cultural values not only reflects the diversification of consumer preferences but also underscores the burgeoning influence of the halal market on a global scale. As the halal lifestyle continues to permeate various facets of life, its impact extends beyond gastronomic considerations, shaping a comprehensive approach to consumption that resonates with Muslims worldwide.
In the post-COVID era, with the gradual resumption of global tourism, there is a projected surge in the expansion of Muslim-friendly establishments such as resorts, hotels, and restaurants. According to the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023, by 2028, the estimated halal tourism market size was projected to grow to US$225 billion. Simultaneously, the consumer size was represented by the arrival of 110 million Muslim travelers in 2022, projected to reach 230 million by 2028.
The Muslim-friendly tourism industry is often termed halal tourism. To know more, please read our article on “What is Halal Tourism?” The following visual representation of the ecosystem of the halal tourism industry places "Halal Tourism" at the center, symbolizing the industry's core. Ten arrows radiate outward from this central point, each pointing towards a specific component, illustrating the interconnected nature of the ecosystem.
This diagram visually communicates the comprehensive and integrated nature of the halal tourism ecosystem, with each component playing a crucial role in providing a holistic and tailored experience for Muslim travelers.
Market opportunities are realized when there is a convergence of factors such as demand, market size, and growth. The halal industry encompasses various sectors closely interconnected with halal tourism, such as halal food and beverage, modest fashion, halal media and recreation, halal pharmaceuticals, and halal cosmetics.
Halal entrepreneurs are dynamic business leaders who engage in various sectors within the burgeoning halal economy. This economy, driven by the faith-based needs of Muslim consumers, spans numerous industries, not just limited to food and beverage. These entrepreneurs ensure that all aspect of their business, from the initial concept to the final product or service, adheres to Islamic principles. They are involved in various sectors, including but not limited to finance, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, fashion, travel, and more, providing a holistic halal lifestyle.
The success of these entrepreneurs is rooted in their deep understanding of the halal concept. They are concerned with meeting religious obligations and focusing on ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible practices. In countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, where the halal industry is a priority, these entrepreneurs play a crucial role. They contribute significantly to the growth of this sector, bringing their unique blend of Islamic knowledge, business acumen, and a commitment to quality and integrity to the forefront of the global halal market.
The entrepreneurs can establish or partner with travel agencies that craft unique and comprehensive Muslim-friendly travel experiences. This includes offering halal holiday packages, customized Umrah and Hajj packages, family-friendly Muslim travel options, and other services aligned with Islamic values, catering to Muslim consumers' specific needs and preferences.
Entrepreneurs in the halal F&B sector can create and promote authentic halal dining experiences. This involves establishing halal restaurants, engaging in halal food delivery services, contributing to the emerging trend of halal culinary tourism, and ensuring the availability of diverse and high-quality halal-certified food options for Muslim travelers.
They can enter the hospitality industry by establishing or managing Muslim-friendly accommodations, such as hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and villas. This includes providing services that adhere to Islamic principles, ensuring gender-segregated facilities, prayer facilities, water-friendly washrooms, and halal amenities for a comfortable and compliant stay. CrescentRated hotels and resorts assure such compliance and Muslim-friendly services with a comprehensive Muslim-friendly hotel rating system.
Entrepreneurs can tap into the growing market for halal media and recreational activities. This involves creating content such as Islamic-themed shows and movies, organizing cultural events and sports activities, and providing gender-segregated facilities like gyms and spas that align with the preferences of Muslim travelers.
Entrepreneurs in this space can focus on providing Muslim-friendly transportation and in-flight halal services. This includes offering halal-certified meal options, in-flight prayer times, and other services during travel, Muslim-friendly tour guides, and catering to the unique needs of Muslim travelers at airports, contributing to a seamless and compliant journey.
Entrepreneurs can develop innovative digital solutions to enhance the overall halal travel experience. Muslim tourists can benefit from customized and cutting-edge services using cutting-edge technology, such as the development of halal travel apps, VR and AR experiences, the application of artificial intelligence, and many more.
Clothing and clothes appropriate for snorkeling, hiking, and working out are all examples of how entrepreneurs can contribute to the expanding market for modest fashion. Additionally, the entrepreneurs can tap the market by offering modest sportswear like burkinis and hijab-friendly attire and meeting the diverse fashion needs of Muslim travelers in all travel destinations.
Entrepreneurs can explore opportunities in the development of Sharia-compliant health insurance and travel insurance products. This involves collaborating with takaful insurance providers and establishing halal medical services to cater to Muslim travelers' specific health and safety requirements.
Entrepreneurs can establish institutions that offer training programs and awareness initiatives focused on halal and Muslim-friendly practices. This includes providing certification and quality assurance training for businesses, training Muslim-friendly tour guides, and ensuring a skilled workforce that understands the unique requirements of the halal tourism industry.
Entrepreneurs can engage with government bodies and certification authorities to contribute to developing and implementing halal tourism regulations. This involves actively participating in the certification process, adhering to industry standards, providing consultancy and coaching services to businesses seeking halal certification, and ensuring compliance with government policies to foster a supportive and regulated halal tourism environment.
In conclusion, the landscape of Muslim-friendly tourism is an expansive terrain of opportunities awaiting the vision and ingenuity of entrepreneurs. As the halal tourism market continues to flourish, driven by the growing global Muslim population and the universal appeal of halal values, entrepreneurs have a unique chance to shape and contribute to this burgeoning industry. The possibilities are vast and varied, from crafting tailored travel experiences to innovating in the digital realm and ensuring end-to-end halal integrity. This sector not only aligns with the principles of Islamic values but also opens avenues for ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible business practices.
The appeal for entrepreneurs to participate in the fields of halal tourism goes beyond purely financial benefits, as it allows them the chance to play a pivotal role in meeting the specific needs of Muslim consumers around the world, all while aiding the development and growth of an industry known for its revolutionary and forward-thinking appeal. Entrepreneurs can explore, innovate, and make a sustainable impact in a field that includes cultural appreciation and economic development thanks to the rise of Muslim-friendly tourism worldwide.
For a broader insight into the Halal Travel Market, please check out the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 on this link here!
