Why South Africa is emerging as a top destination for halaal tourism

THE rise of halaal tourism is capturing attention in the travel industry, as more destinations cater to Muslim travellers with halaal-friendly services.

- ZAMANDOSI CELE

From halaal dining options to prayer facilities, this growing trend is reshaping global travel.

According to South African Tourism (SAT), this vibrant segment has emerged as a crucial pillar of the global travel and tourism sector, driven by a marked increase in Muslim travellers seeking destinations that align with their religious and cultural requirements.

"As the demand for Muslim-friendly services rises, the industry faces opportunities in providing seamless travel experiences for this growing segment," the SAT said. The numbers speak volumes as in 2022, an estimated 110 million Muslims journeyed internationally, making up 12% of all global international arrivals. Notably, this figure represents an impressive 68% recovery from pre-pandemic travel levels.

The Global Muslim Travel Index 2023 highlights that the Muslim travel market is poised for remarkable growth. Projections indicate that the number of Muslim traveller arrivals could soar to 230 million by 2028, with expenditures soaring to US$225 billion.