Top Halal-Friendly Travel Destinations To Explore

The rapidly growing Halal tourism has now grown into a multi-billion dollar sector, which is specifically designed for Muslim families who are following the Islamic principles. These destinations offer a gastronomic environment in line with Islamic rules and prayer facilities so travelers can continue their routine with ease. Across the world, numerous destinations offer a safe environment for muslims, allowing them to travel without making any compromises of their beliefs. Therefore, review the articles to help you find the most fascinating halal-friendly destinations, and create an overall travel blueprint in accordance with Islamic rules. 

What Attributes Contribute to a Destination being Halal-friendly? 

Halal-friendly destinations are places where Muslim travelers can uphold their beliefs in a secure environment and navigate their daily lives easily. To facilitate prayer opportunities and foster a culture of respect and acceptance, along with the necessity of having access to halal food within their surroundings, and that supermarket products are clearly labeled. Dedicated prayer spaces should be available in public spaces such as malls and airports, and travelers should have convenient access to mosques or designated prayer areas. Additionally, locals should have a mutual understanding of Islamic principles, and destinations should offer family-friendly activities, an alcohol-free environment, and other appropriate amenities that encourage humility. 

Itemized List of Top Halal-Friendly locations to Explore

Across the world, numerous locations offer a proper hotspot for muslims, which serve as Halal-friendly locations and cater to all dietary and cultural standards. Therefore, here are some of the locations you can consider visiting while following the Islamic principles:

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE) 

In the UAE, Dubai, in particular, is the most visited Halal-friendly destination, offering a luxury retreat that respects Islamic principles. Overall, cities like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Fujairah, and others cater to the needs of Muslims while offering a unique Islamic culture that combines with modernity. The country is well-established with halal-friendly locations and sites, where visitors can enjoy without any compromises, including some of the top travel options:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Jumeirah Mosque
• Al Bidya Mosque
• Al Noor Mosque
• Al Farooq Omar
• Bin Khattab Mosque

2. Japan

Japan is seeing significant growth in Halal restaurants, especially in major cities, and in supermarkets that carry Halal products. Although the options for prayers might be limited, except for some of the major cities like Tokyo, Cami Mosques, and the mobile mosque introduced by the Yasu Project. Japan has its own Halal certification body, the Japan Halal Certification Promotion Organization, which promotes Islamic culture in the country. While you visit Japan, you can consider enjoying the following options:

• Tokyo Camii Mosque
• Turkish Cultural Center
• Kobe Muslim Mosque
• Nagoya Mosque
• Darul Arqam Mosque
• Babul Islam Mosque

3. Turkey 

Turkey is another country that is deeply linked with Islam, and is certified as a proper Halal tourism destination. The country is packed with Halal-friendly hotels and resorts, as well as several cultural attractions, including mosques, ancient cities, and other sites. Furthermore, Turkey's food scene is renowned worldwide and has been a major draw for tourists. While you stay in Turkey, you can consider visiting these locations:

• The Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia
• Turkish & Islamic Art Museum
• The Topkapi Palace
• Bursa & its old mosques and Ottoman-style buildings
• The Old Remains of Ephesus
• Skylines

4. Malaysia

Malaysia is a premier destination with a high-end reputation in Halal tourism, especially in Asia. The majority of the population in Malaysia is Muslim, and thus the country offers a well-established infrastructure for Halal tourism. With options for travel ranging from prime locations, hotels, restaurants, prayer facilities, and Islamic cultural attractions, Malaysia offers a wealth of Halal travel experiences. If traveling in Malaysia, you can consider visiting the following travel destinations for a better experience:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Langkawi Island
• Penang
• Melaka 
• Cameron Highlands
• Kota kinabalu

5. Thailand 

Thailand is another emerging destination on the list of top halal-friendly destinations, offering dedicated facilities that meet Islamic principles. Whether the praying facilities or accommodation options are friendly for Muslims across the key hotspots in Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. This commitment to and mutual understanding of Halal laws can also be seen across its markets and shopping centres, where Halal-friendly items are displayed. The combination of mesmerizing backdrops, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality makes it a proper location. In Thailand, you can visit the following Halal-friendly locations: 

• Bangkok
• Krabi 
• Phuket
• Chiang Mai

6. Taiwan

Taiwan is a new destination added to Halal tourism and has become a reputable destination in recent years. The country has ranked among the top three non-organizational destinations of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).  Taiwan has several major transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and national scenic areas that offer features especially for Muslims, including dedicated prayer rooms that fulfill their dietary and worship requirements. Taiwan boasts around 200 Halal-certified or Muslim-friendly restaurants, hotels, and businesses, ensuring that visitors will face no inconveniences at any time. Below are some locations that are the top Halal-friendly locations in Taiwan:

• Taipei 101
• Taipei Grand Mosque
• National Palace Museum
• Jiufen Old Street
• Alishan National Scenic Area

7. Egypt

Egypt is home to some of the most prominent and grand landmarks in the world, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Nile River, the Aswan Dam, Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. The major population here is Islamic, so no traveler will struggle to find Halal-friendly options, making it well established as a Halal tourism destination, with numerous hotels and resorts catering to Muslim guests. Some Halal-friendly locations in Egypt are listed below to provide greater convenience for passengers. 

• Sharm El-Sheikh 
• Hurghada
• Cairo & Giza
• Luxor

8. Morocco

Morocco is a premier, inherently halal-friendly destination, another Islamic state, ensuring widespread availability of Halal food, quick and convenient access to mosques, and a respectful, culturally rich atmosphere. Particularly in cities such as Marrakech and Fez, you can explore fascinating mosques, bustling souks, and other historical medinas that showcase their longstanding ties to Islamic architecture and traditions. What delights visitors the most are Moroccan dishes, such as Tagine, Couscous, and Pastilla. Hence, you can visit the following destinations when you are staying in Morocco:

• Marrakech
• Fes
• Chefchaouen
• Agadir
• The Sahara Desert

9. Tunisia

Tunisia intertwines the European influence with the Arab Heritage, especially due to its French colonial past. This magical combination creates a setting that is peculiar in its own, offering a perfect cultural experience for Muslim travelers. Tunisia is packed with fascinating locations, such as mosques, madrasas, and palaces, that allow you to dive deep into understanding Islam. Along with that, Tunisia is a naturally blessed country, home to some of the most eye-pleasing Mediterranean beaches, ancient ruins, charming towns, and more. At last, what will impress you the most is the hospitality of the Tunisian people and the country's commitment to preserving its Islamic heritage. While being in Tunisia, you can explore the following locations, which are some perfect Halal-friendly locations:

• Hammamet
• Kairouan
• Tunis & Sidi Bou Said
• Sousse & Monastir
• Djerba
• Mahdia

10. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is traditionally not a Halal tourism destination, but a rise has been seen in recent years, around the major cities like London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and Liverpool, which are home to several muslim communities. The country thrives in the Halal food scene, and some high-end establishments offer Halal options upon request by visitors. Furthermore, the United Kingdom has introduced several Halal-friendly tourism products, including a Halal high tea on a Thames riverboat and a tour focused on the country's Islamic history.  While exploring the United Kingdom, you may consider exploring the following locations in the country: 

• London 
• Birmingham
• Manchester
• Leicester

11. Singapore 

Singapore is another Asian country on this list that aims to provide Halal tourism facilities, including ample Halal food options, various mosques for prayer, and culturally supportive Muslim-friendly areas like Kampong Gelam, ranking it amongst the top destinations for Muslim travelers. It ensures that Halal products are served to passengers, meeting their Islamic dietary requirements. Therefore, Singapore is a perfect high-end tourist destination for Muslims, offering them excellent Halal-friendly services. The following are the places you can consider visiting in Singapore:

• Sultan Mosque
• Masjid Bencoolen
• Kampong Glam
• Masjid Abdu Gaffoor

12. Jordan

Jordan is a great destination for Muslim tourists, with over 95% of its population Muslim, and it truly delivers a Halal tourism experience. Almost every particular location in Jordan is Halal-friendly, offering Halal food options, mosques, and peaceful places for prayers. The country is considered safe and among the most welcoming destinations for Muslim Travelers. Even when it comes to accommodations, they are alcohol free with separate spaces for prayers. Some of the best Halal-friendly locations in Jordan are listed below:

• King Abdullah I Mosque
• Abu Darwish Mosque
• Amman Citadel
• Petra
• King Hussaein Mosque
• Jerash
• Grand Hussein Mosque

Conclusion

Muslim tourists often seek Halal certifications when creating a travel blueprint, as thorough planning is required for a Halal-friendly tour. This includes restaurants and eateries that offer Halal-friendly food and do not serve alcohol. Beyond eateries, the places must have dedicated prayer areas and mosques to complete prayers. With all these aspects combined, the article discussed the top halal-friendly locations that offer Islamic-friendly services worldwide. Hence, whether you are planning a solo trip or with your family, you can refer to the article, pick your preferred destinations, and create a separate bucket list to explore without compromising on Islamic laws and Halal regulations.