A quarter of the world’s population consists of Muslims. Hence, it is no surprise that Muslims make up a strong force when it comes to globetrotting. This has given rise to destinations that are actively working to cater to the Muslim culture and religious needs. This includes Halal food options and the prayer facility. Destinations frequented by Muslim travelers are becoming increasingly active in making these visitors comfortable. The concept of Halal Travel is gaining momentum all around the world. In this concept travelers of the Islamic faith look to explore breathtaking scenery while keeping their religious values intact.
In this guide, after careful research, we have selected the most Halal-friendly destinations taking into account various factors. These include the availability of halal food options and prayer facilities. And in some cases separate pools and spas for Muslims. Whether it’s beach gateways or cities rich in history, some places have gone the extra mile to accommodate Muslim tourists.
Top 7 Halal Destinations
Maldives
This is the most preferred place for just married Muslim couples. Maldives is a country where Muslims live in a majority. Most of the needs for Halal travelers are just a stone’s throw away in this country. This country consists of almost 1200 little, tropical islands that are converted into resorts. These islands are surrounded by azure blue water and white sandy beaches beaming with marine life.
There are dedicated halal resorts in this place for conscious travelers. These resorts offer the utmost privacy to Muslim couples. You may also find halal food abundantly here. Those living on the city side have no dearth of options to pray. Lastly, everyone is treated equally here, no matter where he belongs.
Morocco
Marrakech is the largest city in Morocco which is rich in Islamic heritage and culture. It is a walled city that offers an unparalleled experience to travelers due to its unmatched charm, vibrant souks, delicious halal cuisine, and centuries-old mosques.
This North African country is frequented by European travelers as well as it is in proximity to Europe, just off the coast of Spain. Therefore, halal-conscious travelers can find world-class accommodations and a mix of European cuisine that too in a halal manner.
Turkey
While visiting this country with its rich past, travelers get a dose of Eastern traditions as well as Western modernity. As a Muslim-majority country, it welcomes Halal tourists with both arms. Tourists no matter where they eat from there will have no worries that it would not be halal. Moreover, this country has gone the extra mile to build resorts at coastal destinations that specifically target conservative Muslim travelers. These resorts are alcohol-free and offer superior privacy like women-only beaches. History is embedded in this country’s DNA. Muslim travelers get to see mosques that were built in the 11th century and Museums that contain rich objects from early Islamic times.
Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah
There are no sound options above the holy cities of Islam if a Muslim is looking to spiritually enrich himself all while getting a glimpse of early Islamic history firsthand. There is no such worry of any Muslim sensitivities as being the birthplace of Islam everything is Islamic here. Moreover, visitors to these two cities get to pray in the holiest places in Islam. What more of a privilege can this be for Muslims?
Makkah and Madinah hold special place in every Muslim’s heart as being Umrah and Hajj destinations. While Hajj can be performed only on specific dates, Muslim can visit these cities to perform Umrah throughout the year. Among all the 12 months, going for Umrah in December in preferred by millions of Muslims around the world.
Oman
If a halal traveler wants to relax on the seaside while being surrounded by mountains from all sides, then Oman is the perfect place to go. This country is nestled between the sea and the mountains and has invested heavily in hospitality. The capital city Muscat has a lot to offer and if that’s not enough visitors can take a few hour’s ride to Salalah which is a fully tranquil hillside retreat.
Malaysia
As one of the popular halal-friendly sites, this is a famous choice for all Muslims in Southeast Asia. Firstly, there is no lack of Halal food options in this country. From Malay-style tandoori chicken to the fusion of several cuisines arising from its Indian, Chinese, and Malay populations. Halal food is available in every corner of this country. Secondly, as there is a significant Muslim population that adheres to modest Islamic dress, there is no discrimination towards the Islamic dress code. At every small distance, you may find a mosque here.
The specialty of Malaysia is the luxury vibe it offers at a fraction of the cost that travelers will incur in Western countries. The charm is not limited to the bustling city. It is also perfect for newlyweds as some Islands like Langkawi offer incredible scenery, rare wildlife, thrill activities, and decent hotel stays, with privacy for couples.
Indonesia
This country consisting of hundreds of Islands cannot be ignored when talking about the most preferred Halal destinations. The capital of Jakarta is a bustling metropolis that has some of the oldest and largest mosques to explore. The city offers regional and local Indonesian cuisine all in a halal way. It is a food lover and shopper’s paradise.
Bali is another place that forms the backbone of the tourist influx to Indonesia. It is a predominantly Hindu island, however, it receives Muslim travelers in abundance due to its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Islam does not obstruct Muslims from exploring places of Worship of other religions. Hence, Halal travelers visiting this island explore ancient Hindu temples with much fascination and curiosity. Due to its unavoidable beauty, it attracts Muslim travelers in large numbers. Hence the resorts and other facilities there cater well to Muslim travelers keeping all their concerns in mind.
Conclusion
Islam is the fastest-growing religion and Muslim countries have the largest birthrate among all other countries of the world. Moreover, a large percentage Muslim population is below 30. These are an active and energetic cohort of globe trotters. All of the seven destinations mentioned here are Muslim-majority countries. Therefore, they naturally take the sensitivities of Muslims into account.
To fulfil your Halal travel needs, get in touch with Muslims Holy Travel, a leading tour operator in the UK. We offer bespoke travel plans for the destinations mentioned above along with all-inclusive Umrah packages.
