Reflective Journal

5.3.2 Concept of Travel and Tourism from Islamic Perspective

Introduction

The concept of responsible tourism from Islamic perspective.Halal tourism is reshaping the global tourism industry by increasing the number of Muslim tourist from 121 to 156 million in 2016. This data is recorded by the Global Muslim Travel Index (GTMI) which was produced by Master Card and Crescent Rating, a “halal friendly”travel consultancy.In my opinion this is a very positive impact to the tourism industry where by we can gained profits not just from the non Muslim traveller but also from the Muslim traveller because is the norm for the Muslims to not travel as it was a difficulty for them to travel to another country that fits their needs such as halal food and beverages .

In this era, with the burgeoning middle class and increasing disposable income,many countries tend to attract these traveller whether they are Muslim or non Muslim. Malaysia ,Turkey ,the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia are among the famous leading in Muslim’s top destination for traveling.While Singapore,Thailand and United Kingdom are among the top non-Islamic or OIC (Organization of the Islamic Conference) destinations.

Adapting to The Needs of Muslim Travelers

By looking at the potential of this sector, it’s important for the hospitality industry to adapt to change the halal requirement to meet the needs of Muslim tourist.According to Crescent Ratings, hotels and restaurant should offers halal food as well as the availability of prayer facilities, Muslim friendly washroom and Ramadan related offers.Other than that, peer-to-peer technology and platforms are also emerging such as Bookhalalhomes.com has become the world’s leading portal for halal accommodation rentals. It is different from Airbnb where guaranteeing halal-certified services such as halal food and designated prayer room.

Next, is the smartphone apps are also being developed. The tourism Authority of Thailand has launched an app that helps Muslim travelers find halal products and services.It also provides information about prayers times, halal food options and sightseeing tours.Another called HalalTrip, offers information related to more than 65 destination worldwide. The apps also sell suitable tour packages, whether it’s experiencing Great White Sharks in South Africa, culture and history in Spain or shopping in Dubai.These apps will be a big help for the Muslim traveller.

Halal tourism e-commerce is still in its infancy compared to more established western OTAs though. However, its a growing markets that needs to be served.This is because of the Halal tourism is a new concept among the Muslim traveller and still need to be promote through all the platform.

Impact of Innovation Demand

With spending by Muslim travelers on course to reach US＄220 billion by 2020 and Islam being the fastest-growing religion in the world, Muslim tourist are definitely some of the most important customers in the travel market that will be able to increase the income in tourism industry

Pull factors such as family-friendly and Muslim-friendly services are important, as is halal awareness.Where safety concerns and basic halal requirement are met, Muslims tourism will continue to grow