MAY-JUNE . 2023 | @ Halal
Focus
21
THE DEVELOPMENT OF ISLAMIC TOURISM
Touching on Islamic tourism development , he said the sector was thriving , and its potential was highly encouraging , thanks to the services provided by major airlines from Gulf countries such as Saudi Airlines , Qatar Airways , Etihad , Kuwait Airlines , etc .
“ Famous destinations like Dubai , Saudi Arabia , and China offer excellent Muslimfriendly infrastructure and halal food options , encouraging Islamic tourism development due to the demand from these travellers .
“ After the impact of the recent pandemic , these travellers have been longing for travel , increasing international tourists . For instance , in Saudi Arabia , there were 50 million visitors in 2019 , and by 2022 , they have already recorded 80 per cent of their target of 100 million tourists by 2023 .
“ Gulf-based airlines like Qatar Airways , Oman Air , and others have increased their fleet and flights to new destinations , contributing to tourist travel to Muslim countries . With advanced infrastructure and facilities , Arab countries are well-equipped to cater to these travellers . The Visit Saudi campaign aims to promote tourism in Saudi Arabia on a large scale .
“ In our region , travel between Asian countries has also increased , increasing demand for hotels and flights . Hotels are already experiencing high occupancy . However , unfortunately , when such opportunities arise , some stakeholders take advantage by raising prices . This is a challenge that the government needs to address . Stakeholders must balance demand and prices to avoid negative effects on tourism .” Khalid said .
FACTORS CONSIDERED BY TRAVELLERS
Khalid mentioned that in terms of preparations , travellers would consider three main factors : transportation , accommodation , and food . He noted that there had been a noticeable increase in bookings and tourist arrivals , indicating a gradual return to business for many tourism operators .
“ Many previously closed hotels have reopened , and international hotels are expanding their presence in Malaysia .”
Regarding food , Khalid highlighted that countries that did not initially provide halal food options have now started catering to the needs of Muslim travellers , such as Japan .
He recalled his visit to Japan in 2012 after the country had experienced a tsunami , where he and his team explored ways to support the tourism sector there . Khalid recommended increasing the availability of halal meals , which has resulted in a significant boost in Muslim tourist arrivals to Japan , reaching a growth rate of 30 per cent .
During that period , Japan had implemented a double visa policy . Khalid , President of the ASEAN Tourism Association ( ASEANTA ), proposed that Japan streamline their visa procedures by adopting a similar approach to Malaysia .
It would involve introducing visa-on-arrival and visa-free entry options . As a starting point , Japan began granting visa-free entry to Malaysians holding Malaysian passports .
“ Before travelling , travellers should know the destination ’ s visa requirements ,” he emphasised .
WAYS TO MOVE FORWARD FOR TOURISM PLAYERS
“ Industry players have long been advised that they cannot continue operating in the same manner as they do now . They must be prepared to increase their capital turnover as this sector requires significant investment ,” shared Khalid .
“ Therefore , the infusion of additional capital is necessary . They should consider forming partnerships among players if they cannot do so individually . For example , 10 travel agencies could merge to create a larger company capable of competing with established giant companies .”
Khalid highlighted that businesses now could utilise technology and market their offerings online , unrestricted by physical locations . He emphasised the necessity of increasing capital to enhance the industry ’ s capability to effectively manage tourism businesses with the latest and most advanced technology .
“ Additionally , it is essential for industry players to establish networks with stakeholders worldwide , enabling them to offer
I encourage participants attending the exhibition or conference to gather information about the latest Hajj and Umrah tourism developments , including policies and more . Lastly , I pray Allah makes our journey to AITEX 2023 smooth and successful .”
competitive packages in terms of price and services .”
When asked about his hope for the upcoming AITEX 2023 , Khalid said : “ I hope that AITEX 2023 receives a warm reception from industry players in Malaysia and abroad . We also hope that the government will provide strong support for this event .
“ I encourage participants attending the exhibition or conference to gather information about the latest Hajj and Umrah tourism developments , including policies and more . Lastly , I pray Allah makes our journey to AITEX 2023 smooth and successful .”
For more information about AITEX 2023 and the World Islamic Tourism Awards , please visit www . mata . travel . –