What is Muslim Travel or Halal-Friendly Holiday Destinations?

Halal is an Arabic word and means permissible in accordance with Islamic teachings. For example, for Muslims, alcohol, pork, nudity and gambling are not allowed.
It is a fact that halal travel destinations are a rapidly growing market segment that cannot be ignored in today’s travel and tourism industry. It is estimated that the Muslim travel market is worth around USD 190 billion. (Reference: Crescent Rating)
There are usually a few requirements that are needed – although these may vary as people have different preferences. Here is the list of three essential needs of Muslim travellers when in search of halal-friendly travel destinations:

1. Prayer Facilities
One of the most important requirements for halal travel destinations is easy and convenient access to prayer facilities.
These prayer facilities can be in the form of prayer rooms in locations such as hotels, shopping malls, airports and even tourist attractions such as museums or art galleries. Muslim holidaymakers will appreciate it if there is a mosque within a short distance from their hotels and tourist attractions.
Some Muslim travellers are okay with performing their prayers in their hotel or Airbnb lodgings, but many may look forward to the opportunity to experience mosques in different countries.

2. Halal Food
Food – the most important need for everyone whilst on holiday!
In this case, Muslim travellers will be looking for halal food. A survey done by Crescent Rating found that halal food is the most important requirement for Muslims when researching halal travel destinations.
If you’re travelling to a non-Muslim country and wish to sample the local delicacies, it can be challenging to find halal versions. So, being able to source certified restaurants and hotels that serve halal food make for full, contented and happy bellies, and a happy holiday experience.

3. No Islamaphobia
Unfortunately, in this time and age, it is undeniable that Muslim travellers should verify if a certain travel destination is safe to visit.
Everyone wants to enjoy their holiday without worry, so Muslims would be looking for halal-friendly travel; safe Muslim countries that lack islamophobia. An example of this is certain countries that have imposed a no-hijab ban, meaning they do not allow the wearing of a hijab in their country. Hijab is the head covering that is worn in public by some Muslim women as part of Islamic teachings; so this would pose a concern for female Muslim travellers.