halal tours uk

020 8004 6786

[email protected]

+447506 408585

Specialists in Hajj, Umrah and Al Aqsa Packages

Est. Since 2013

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Three Mosque Tours

UMRAH TOURS

Jordan & AL AQSA

AL AQSA TOURS

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Welcome to ibadah tours.

Specialists in Hajj, Umrah, Masjid Al Aqsa & worldwide tours

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ عَنْ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ لَا تُشَدُّ الرِّحَالُ إِلَّا إِلَى ثَلَاثَةِ مَسَاجِدَ الْمَسْجِدِ الْحَرَامِ وَمَسْجِدِ الرَّسُولِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ وَمَسْجِدِ الْأَقْصَى

Sahih Bukhari 1132

Everyone has different approaches and priorities when it comes to travel planning. As we appreciate that our clients are travelling for the most unforgettable beneficial experiences, Ibadah Tours aims to save you money whilst providing the efficiency you need to ensure your journey is seamless. We offer the most competitive rates around and take on the hard work of searching and booking, so you can concentrate on your Ibadah. Our team members have various areas of expertise in order to cover all of our clients’ travel needs. Whether you’re planning an upcoming trip for Hajj, Umrah Al Aqsa or a worldwide tour , we make the booking process easy and enjoyable.

Call us today and start traveling!

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THE EXPRESS PACKAGE

2 WEEK NON SHIFTING

from only £TBA

Frequently Asked Questions

Testimonials.

"It was an amazing tour thanks to Allah SWT first and foremost. Thanks Ali and Ibadah tours for being patient and making it journey to be remembered. In-shah-Allah we will be going with Ibadah Tours Ltd on other journeys."

Sifu Zubbair Khan

Here's what our customers have to say about us and what our Tours are ALL about...

WHY BOOK WITH IBADAH?

Easy search & bookings.

Booking with us is the most convenient way to create a personalized Umrah package or Halal holiday that you can be sure will suit you, without the big price tag. All you have to do is ring us , and our travel advisers will take care of the rest. Alternatively, you can book online.

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to:  www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate

IBADAH TOURS IS A TRADING NAME FOR MK HOLIDAYS LTD

65b Palmerston Road, London E17 6PR

Our Affiliates

• Superior Double
• Petit Double
• Junior Suite
• Family Rooms
• Accessibility
• Summer in London
• Autumn in London
• Notting Hill & Portobello Road Market
• Kensington Palace & Gardens
• Map, Parking & Public Transport
• Attractions and Sightseeing
• Events and Festivals
• Exhibitions & Museums
• Theatre and Dance
• Ramadan in London
• Gift Vouchers
• Lone Traveller
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences

Halal Tourism Britain

5* memorable experiences.

Halal Tourism Britain is an award-winning company, with an overwhelming 5* TripAdvisor Reviews and is led by Britain’s first professionally qualified Muslim tour guide, AbdulMaalik Tailor. Their focus is on providing memorable experiences of Halal tours in Britain. Guided tours are based upon years of research adding value for you to take in. Imagine the Muslim heritage present at some of the top UK tourist spots, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, to name just a few. Imagine discovering hidden Muslim gems that go far as 1,300 years in Britain along with new inspiring Muslim role models! Tour packages range from guided half day tours to a full programme over six days. This is inclusive of museums, galleries, Mosque tours, world famous tourist sights and shopping! If you are looking to have comfort and ease with halal food, prayer times and prayer locations you have come to the right place.

If you wish to see London by foot, river cruise, sightseeing tour bus by day or night, iconic black taxi cab and even if you wish to hire our very own Muslim History sightseeing tour bus to view the fabulous famous landmarks of London and discover even those all-important Muslim tales they have it ready for you! Travel operators may also book the Muslim History Sightseeing Tour bus. Choose between a closed or open top bus with live commentary from a professionally qualified London tour guide.

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• Halal Restaurants Near Me
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• Ramadan 2024

Productive Muslim Retreat

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Discover Halal Travel

Halal places, destinations, food….

• Halal Food Blog
• 2024 Recommendations

How to Perform Salat Eid al-Adha

"Taste of Korea" with MAMEE Food Service and Wong Fu Fu - Limited Time Menu

How To Perform Hajj: Essential Steps for Pilgrims

HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards 2024

Spotlighting Halal Dining Excellence: Winners of the Inaugural HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards 2024 Announced in Singapore

6 Spot dan Sarana Olahraga Terbaik Untuk Beraktivitas dan Menjaga Kebugaran di Jakarta

8 Great Tips For A Productive Hajj

Best Halal Burger Restaurants in North America - Top Picks

Blok M: 6 Kafe dan Spot Nongkrong Asik di Jakarta Selatan

Top 5 Restaurant Chains Offering Halal Cuisine in the USA

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Bringing the "Woke Hei" to Sengkang: WOKE Ramen's New Compass One Outlet

Best places to travel in 2024, downloadable halal travel guides, information guides, your guide on best places to travel in 2024.

The Mastercard-HalalTrip Muslim Millennial Travel Report reveals the burgeoning importance of the next generation of Muslim travelers to the tourism sector across the world.

Your Ultimate Guide to Ramadan 2024

HalalTrip's official Eid & Ramadan page! Here you will find information, images and tips that will help you right from the start of Ramadan to the Eid-ul-Fitr.

Your Guide to Hajj & Umrah 2024

Our Hajj & Umrah page will help you find useful information and tips that will help you understand one of the most important pillars of Islam – Hajj & Umrah.

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Halal friendly holidays, activities & hotels.

• Travel Packages
• Mastercard Exclusive

Taiwan's Treasures: Unveiling the Beauty of Taipei

Taiwan discovery: cultural riches and scenic wonders, mystic bosnia: 11-day journey through time & nature.

Oasia Hotel Novena, Singapore by Far East Hospitality

Han Hsien International Hotel

K hotel taipei chang-an, all-in-one islamic/halal travel mobile app.

This fully integrated all-in-one app not only helps Muslims with their everyday faith bases requirements, but also assists in planning the ideal Muslim-friendly trip.

Halal Trip Community

Happy Travellers and What They Are Saying

The app provides a versatile, quick and easy to use function on the iPhone. With a few touches in-flight prayer timing calculation and reminders are available. A must have for any Muslim traveller. Crescent Rating continues to provide innovative tools and we look forward to more in the near future.

An innovative tool with easy access through the iPhone. Travel time calculation based on departure / arrival city along with respective dua’a recital is a great companion to every Muslim traveller. My best wishes to Crescentrating.

I've always struggled with the issue of when to pray while flying. Over the years I’ve had multiple conversations with friends, who were just as lost and confused. Jazakum Allahu khairan for providing this incredible solution to a serious and prevalent problem … and for putting it in the palm of my hand.

Mashaa allah, everything from your Company is best.

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Planning a Maldives escape? Don’t miss out on our exclusive offers.

Exceptional halal holidays for the modern, Muslim explorer

Customised halal holidays & travel experiences.

We help halal-conscious travellers plan and book soul-enriching halal holidays. From honeymoons to family trips, all of our packages offer authentic and meaningful travel experiences. Customised to each of your needs, our trips are designed with your interests and preferences in mind.

Book your once-in-a-lifetime Maldives getaway now

Take control by searching for exclusive offers and reserving directly. We’ve got you covered every step of the way, from a warm airport welcome to hassle-free resort transfers and round-the-clock support.

No surprises, just memorable experiences.

Our Muslim-friendly holiday destinations

At Rooh Travel, we design Muslim-friendly holidays to countries we know extremely well. That’s why we only offer a small collection of destinations. Your package will be curated by one of our Halal Travel Designers, who have travelled extensively to one of our destinations.

Explore our vetted halal hotels

Our selection of incredible halal hotels have been vetted by our team to ensure they meet our standards. Their excellent locations ensure you have a fantastic and convenient halal holiday. From world-renowned city hotels in Bangkok to eco-luxury halal resorts in the Maldives, find your ideal halal hotel here.

Maldives Halal Resorts

Malaysia Halal Hotels

Thailand Halal Hotels

Mauritius Halal Hotels

How we design your halal holiday, 1. share your travel preferences.

The first step is to fill out our quick travel form. Think about what makes your travel style unique. The more detailed your responses are the more customised your halal holiday package will be.

We pride ourselves in choosing quality over quantity. That’s why we aim to get to know you before we start the planning process.

2. Connect with a Halal Travel Designer

Based on your destination, you will be paired with one of our Halal Travel Designers. One person will work with you from start to finish to bring your dream trip to life.

We will use the information you’ve provided us to handcraft your package. Each of our packages are unique, so no two holidays are the same.

3. Receive your holiday package and travel worry-free

Receive your finalised halal holiday package and discover inside a detailed day-to-day breakdown. All travel logistics taken care of and are arranged by us.

When we can, we will offer you complimentary hotel upgrades and tour activities through our local travel partners.

Muslim holiday packages

Explore our Muslim holiday packages and tours as inspiration for our customised trips. All our holidays include halal food and prayer facilities in a halal-friendly environment. 

Maldives Halal Honeymoon

Maafushi Island Holiday

Maldives Island Hopping Tour

Why plan your halal holidays with rooh, save more than 30 hours of planning​ time.

On average, people can spend up to 30 hours to plan a trip! At Rooh, we’re experts in travel planning and we love to spend time designing the perfect package for you. Let us deal with the logistics, finding the right hotels, experiences and transport options. 

As a result, you get a stress-free holiday so you can make the most of your precious time off.

Travel with a peace of mind

With the current global situation, we aim to be as flexible as possible to give you peace of mind when booking with us. As each destination and travel experience is different, you will know ahead of time your refund and cancellation options. 

As certain hotels have varying policies, we only book accommodation with fully flexible policies and refundable rates.

Don't waste money doing it yourself

Our packages are filled with spectacular experiences designed just for you. Our personalised halal holidays will always save you money in the long run. This is because we work directly with our local halal travel network of partners and hotels in each country. 

That means we’re offered the best industry rates that you won’t find on other booking sites.

Our holidays are 100% customised

Your Rooh travel experience isn’t off the shelf. We like to do things differently. We listen to you and take on board your needs and interests, likes and dislikes, and what you’re hoping to achieve from your holiday. 

This way, your Halal Travel Designer will be able to create a holiday that’s as unique as you are.

We give back

At Rooh, we strive to make the right choices to protect our planet and create a positive impact. From hiring local tour guides in our destinations to working with eco-friendly hotels, we’re continuously working to do our part. Discover our responsible travel policy to see how we’re contributing towards a more positive travel experience.

Join thousands of halal travellers that receive exclusive holiday deals, only shared with our subscribers.

Halal holidays inspiration

Be inspired by our halal travel blog. Discover the best Muslim tourist destinations, countries with halal food, ideal hotels for you holiday, and more! Our blog’s aim is to provide you valuable insight, based on our experience, to help you make an informed decision before booking your halal trip.

Halal Food in Koh Samui: Your Essential Guide

Based on firsthand experience, discover everything you need to know about halal food in Koh Samui, Thailand.

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Explore our in-depth guide on Maldives adults-only resorts with and without all-inclusive and classified by age limits.

18 Best Thailand Hotels with a Private Pool (For All Budgets)

From Bangkok to Koh Samui, explore our exhaustive list of the best Thailand hotels with a private pool. Indugle!

Design your halal trip your way

Get in touch to start planning your adventure, privacy overview.

• Bahasa Melayu

Experiencing the World in Halal Excellence

UK Global Travel and Tours excels in offering bespoke, luxurious services tailored to the halal market. Our expertise spans halal tourism consulting, ensuring all travel experiences align with Halal standards, and business consulting to help clients thrive in the global halal industry. We participate in leading halal expos and events to showcase top-tier halal products and services, facilitating connections within the global halal market. Additionally, our GlobalBiz Spark service digitalizes client products, services, and profiles, enhancing online presence and market reach. We guarantee privacy, comfort, and VIP treatment in all services, making each experience uniquely personal and supremely comfortable, catered to meet the highest standards of our discerning clientele.

Halal Tourism Consulting: Navigate the world with ease and confidence with our expert halal tourism consulting. We ensure that your travel experience is not only compliant with Halal standards but also rich in cultural exploration and luxury. From private tours to exclusive accommodations, we tailor every detail to provide an enriching and comfortable travel experience.

Halal Business Consulting: Propel your business forward in the global halal market with our strategic business consulting services. We help enterprises at every scale capitalize on the expanding opportunities in the halal industry, ensuring that your products and services meet the Halal requirements and are positioned effectively in the market.

Global Halal Expo and Events: Participate in world-class halal expos and events that we organize or manage, providing a platform for networking, business growth, and community engagement. Our events are designed to spark innovation and connect stakeholders from across the halal ecosystem.

GlobalBiz Spark: In the digital age, visibility is key to growth. Our GlobalBiz Spark service is dedicated to digitalizing your products, services, and profiles, ensuring that your business gains significant online traction and reaches a broader audience. We use cutting-edge digital strategies to enhance your online presence and drive business growth.

Our Core Services

Why choose us.

VIP Experience: Every service and solution we offer is imbued with a sense of exclusivity and high standards. We understand the unique needs of our clients and always go the extra mile to ensure their comfort and satisfaction.

Private and Customized: We appreciate that our clients value privacy and personalization. As such, our services are designed to offer a deeply personal and thoroughly customized experience that reflects your individual preferences and requirements.

Comfort and Luxury: Our commitment to comfort and luxury is unmatched. Whether it is travel, accommodation, or business services, we ensure a seamless and opulent experience that caters to the most discerning tastes .

Digitally Enhanced: Leveraging the latest in digital technology, we make sure that all our services from travel bookings to business promotions are facilitated through advanced digital platforms, offering ease and efficiency.

"As a frequent business traveler to Islamic markets, I've struggled to find services that adhere to my lifestyle. That was until I discovered UK Global Travel and Tours. Their Halal tourism consulting has changed the way I travel. Every trip is meticulously planned, ensuring that my accommodations and itineraries are Halal-compliant. Their VIP service made my last visit to Dubai exceptionally comfortable and seamless. They truly understand the nuances of Halal travel!" - Malaysia

"UK Global Travel and Tours is a standout service. Their team organized a private tour of Andalusia for my family, ensuring every aspect was Halal, which is paramount for us. From meals to private guides, everything was perfectly arranged. Their digital tools made communication and payments incredibly easy. It was by far one of the most relaxing and culturally enriching trips we've ever had." - United Kingdom

"I recently engaged UK Global Travel and Tours for a private business trip across Europe, and I was amazed by the personalized service and attention to detail. Their understanding of Halal standards provided great comfort. Additionally, their digitalization service, GlobalBiz Spark, significantly enhanced my business’s visibility online, connecting me with European markets like never before. It’s rare to find a service that combines luxury with such effective business solutions." - Brunei

"Participating in a major global Halal expo was a milestone for our company, made possible by UK Global Travel and Tours. They facilitated our participation, ensuring our products reached an international audience. Their VIP treatment extended beyond just travel arrangements; they provided comprehensive business consulting that helped us understand market dynamics better. Their service didn’t just meet our expectations—it exceeded them, particularly in how they tailored their solutions to our specific needs."- Pakistan

Accommodation

Luxury coach, tour manager services, multilingual tour guide, restaurant booking, attraction entrance tickets, mice planners, b2b inbound operator, group tour style, full day tours, guided holidays, short city breaks, multi day tours, leisure groups, corporate groups, educational groups, special interest groups.

More than 700 partners

Across More Than 50 Countries

Over 1000 Customized Tour Groups Every year

Over 500 Exclusive Customized Travel Packages Are Available

Business enquiry, our full team of expert go-getters are the true secret behind our success and your clients’ memorable trips.

[email protected] [email protected]

+44 7586 920819 (United Kingdom)

+60123541791 (Malaysia)

01215585947

[email protected]

Halal Holidays

Muslim holidays:.

Halal tourism is on the rise in today’s travel industry. It has shown considerable growth in the previous few years. Today, Muslim tourism across the world amounts US$156 billion and it will grow to US$220 by 2020. Hotels and restaurants are introducing changes that suit their Muslim clients. This is encouraging news for all practicing Muslims. They can plan their halal holidays at the enticing destinations in the world.

Sabeel Travels offers several worldwide Muslim Holidays Packages to enjoy your holidays. Our packages ensure a complete Muslim-friendly environment. They guarantee halal food, beverages, prayer facilities, water-friendly toilets, and ablution facilities. We have a wide range of Muslim holiday packages comparatively at low prices with other agencies.

Purpose-built Halal Hotels & Restaurants:

We are in trade with an extensive list of international halal hotels and restaurants during Muslim Holidays and also in working days. Most of them are purpose-built facilities to welcome Muslim tourists. The others provide a Muslim-friendly environment offering most of the halal amenities. You can enjoy your halal holidays without compromising your Islamic beliefs and traditions. To ensure gender privacy in particular, our partner hotels offer women-only facilities. You have lifts, gyms, and walking and sports yards. There are separate pools and spa facilities for men and women. The tourists observe no-photo policy to curb the risks of unwanted images.

Halal-friendly Services and Amenities:

If you feel at home, you enjoy more of your halal holidays. Sabeel Travels brings you the best comfort and hominess during holiday trips. Our tour packages ensure halal needs; food, leisure, no-alcohol. The hotel rooms show Qibla direction, payers’ timings and Quran copy. You also have family-friendly TV and Alcohol-free beverages in the fridge.

Healthcare and security are the prime concerns of every traveler. Sabeel Travels is mindful of these significant needs of its clients. We provide you safe commuting from airports to your Halal hotels and resorts. In case of health emergencies, our tour packages include the best healthcare facilities. We refer you to clinics and hospitals where doctors attend patients according to their gender.

Halal Food and Beverages:

Halal food is the paramount demand of every practicing Muslim. Our partner hotels ensure it offers an extensive range of food and beverages. The food contains only the halal meet according to Islamic Shariah. The meals are free from alcohol or pork products and the substances forbidden by Islam. You can safely relish upon a variety of foods and beverages.

Special Budget Tour Packages:

Sabeel Travels Ltd regards its clients as its worthy asset. We promise you the best possible luxurious relaxation within your budget. We offer you affordable fares to popular travel destinations. Our services include hotel bookings, pick and drop from airport and resorts. Our prime goal is to maximize the pleasure of your fun trip. During Muslim Holidays people think packages rates increased, but we provide relatively cheap packages during Muslim Holidays. We also have other packages like Umrah Packages , Jordan Tour ,  Aqsa Tour and Istanbul Tour  for our respectful customer from the UK with the affordable prices.

• Destinations
• Full day Stopover Tour Istanbul
• Islamic Turkey Discovery Tour
• Istanbul And Antalya Tour
• Ramadan in Jerusalem

Muslim Heritage Tour of Turkey

Visiting the tombs of the sahaba in istanbul.

• 1453 Bodrum Resort & Spa
• Adenya Beach Resort
• Adin Beach Hotel
• Akropol Resort & Spa Alanya
• Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana
• Alanda Hotel Marbella
• Alya Piynar Villa Hotel
• Angel's Peninsula Resort and Spa Hotel
• Atlas Beach Hotel
• Alya Villa Boutique Hotel
• Azra Resort Hotel
• Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
• Bera Alanya Beach Resort & Spa Hotel
• Blu Ciragan Bodrum Resort & Spa
• Burc Club Hotel Izmir
• Club Familia Hotel & Resort
• Club Hotel Karaburun
• Concorde Hotel Fujairah
• Grand Akca Resort Hotel
• Grand Cinar Hotel
• Green Anatolia Club & Hotel
• Hotel Beyt Izmir
• Hotel Mavi Deniz
• Hunkar Palace Hotel
• Inanc Hotel Bodrum
• Katamaran Resort
• Katranci Park Hotel
• Lagoon Hotel & Resort
• Le Vizir Center Park & Resort
• Lova Hotel & Spa
• Marjan Island Resort & Spa
• Modern Saraylar Alanya
• Officers Club & Hotel
• Ottoman Family Hotel & Spa
• Pine Club Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Porto Marina Resort and Spa Hotel
• Rizom Holiday Village Beach Resort
• Rose Mina Hotel
• Selge Beach Resort and Spa
• Silver Palace Hotel
• Sky Tower Otel Akçakoca

Sultan Beach Bodrum Hotel

• Svarga Resort Lombok Hotel
• Tac'un Nisa Resort
• The Regency Kuwait
• Tugra Suit Hotel Alanya
• View Bodrum Hotel
• View Hotel Patara
• Verd Hotel Kerpe
• View Kemer Hotel
• Wome Deluxe Hotel
• Aerostar Hotel
• Al Ghurair Rayhaan Hotel by Rotana
• Al Jawhara Gardens Hotel
• Al Jawhara Hotel Apartments
• Al Rawda Arjaan Hotel by Rotana
• Byotell Flora Suites
• Byotell Hotel Istanbul
• City Live Hotel
• City Seasons Suites Dubai
• Copthorne Hotel Dubai

Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel

• Eastern Mangroves Suites by Jannah
• Golden Horn Sirkeci Hotel
• Golden Sands Hotel Apartments
• Golden Way Hotel Giyimkent
• Hotel Kappa Mestre
• Hilton Sharjah
• La Suite West Hotel
• Lausos Palace Hotel
• Ramada Deira Dubai Hotel
• Rose Rayhaan Hotel by Rotana
• Rast Hotel Istanbul
• Tamani Hotel Marina
• Lausos Hotel
• Marmaray Hotel
• Ryad Mogador Menara and Spa
• Taslihan Boutique Hotel
• The Bosphorus House Istanbul
• Turquhouse Boutique Hotel
• The Bermondsey Square Hotel
• The Central Palace Hotel
• Aylin Villas
• Villa A-Hill
• Villa Agave
• Villa Amaya
• Villa Art Deco
• Villa Asena
• Villa Bacula
• Villa Bellavista
• Villa Bobcat
• Villa Carobna koliba
• Villa Castrum Novigrad
• Villa Celona
• Villa Citrus
• Villa Espina
• Villa Hacienda
• Villa Hulya
• Villa Hutan Datai
• Villa Idassa
• Villa Jannah
• Villa Kringa
• Villa Lanterna
• Villa Lapad
• Villa Lara Rovinj
• Villa Layla
• Villa Lellux
• Villa Manatee
• Villa Mondo
• Villa Orange Garden
• Villa Panther
• Villa Parens
• Villa Red Land
• Villa Romenya
• Villa Saffron
• Villa Sheherezade
• Villa Stancia Cocci
• Villa Sultanah
• Villa Tamani
• Villa Tumaini
• Villa Turquoise
• Villa Vacari
• Villa Verde
• Villa Zaara
• Villa Zaglav
• Villa Zahira
• Villa Zaytun
• Anvatar Thermal Hotel
• Basak Thermal Hotel
• Basaranlar Thermal Hotel
• Cam Hotel Thermal Resort & Spa
• Dundar Thermal Villa Hotel
• Grand Ozgul Thermal Holiday Village
• Hitit Ayas Thermal & Spa Holiday Village
• Hotel Aleksander
• Ikbal Thermal Hotel & Spa
• Korel Thermal Resort & Spa Hotel
• Obam Thermal Resort & Spa
• Orucoglu Thermal Resort & Spa
• Retaj Thermal Hotel & Spa
• Sanitas Thermal
• Swiss International Hotel
• Yalova Thermal Hotel
• News and articles
• Privacy Policy

Top Halal destinations around the world

Cesme Izmir

Gumusluk, Bodrum

Halal Resorts Around The World

Wome Deluxe Hotel     

Svarga Resort Lombok Hotel    

Selge Beach Resort and Spa     

Rizom Holiday Village Beach Resort    

Modern Saraylar Alanya     

Marjan Island Resort & Spa     

Lova Hotel & Spa    

Le Vizir Center Park & Resort    

Inanc Hotel Bodrum   

Club Familia Hotel & Resort    

Bera Alanya Beach Resort & Spa Hotel     

Atlas Beach Hotel    

Halal tour packages.

Ski Tour in Dizin Resort Iran

New Year in Baku

Jordan Essentials Tour

Jordan – The Holy Land Tour

Jordan – Short Pilgrimage Package

Jordan – Relaxing Getaway to The Holy Land

Jordan – Holy Sites Pilgrimage Package

Jordan - The Holy Land Tour Extended

Jordan - The Holy Land Short Stay

Jordan - Extended Pilgrimage Package

Halal villas.

Villa Zaytun    

Villa Zahira     

Villa Zaglav     

Villa Zaara     

Villa Verde    

Villa Vacari   

Villa Turquoise    

Villa Tumaini   

Villa Tamani   

Villa Sultanah    

Villa Stancia Cocci    

Villa Sheherezade     

Halal city hotels.

Ramada Hotel Abu Dhabi Corniche    

National Hotel Jerusalem

Marina Bay Suites by Jannah    

Lagoon Hotel & Resort     

La Suite West Hotel    

Eastern Mangroves Suites by Jannah     

Dhow Palace Hotel    

Corso 281    

Bodrum Bal Beach Hotel

Alanda Hotel Marbella    

Halal thermal resorts.

Sanitas Thermal    

Retaj Thermal Hotel & Spa

Orucoglu Thermal Resort & Spa     

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ENGLAND Halal-friendly holidays

England halal-friendly holidays general information.

Halal-friendly holidays in England

Take yourself to England - known for its tea, royals, national pride and much more. As one of the most visited countries in the world, it has a lot to offer Muslim tourists. With large Muslim populations in the major cities, you will always find yourself on familiar ground. Like a true global village, you will find that the locals share many different cultures and languages, so you will always feel at home. Although England continues to hold on to traditional values, it has moved with the times and become a country that celebrates cultural differences.

England is full of captivating castles and historic sites as well as scenic landscapes, quaint towns and ancient streets to meander through. It is also home to a bustling art scene, family-fun adventures and culinary experiences with both authentic English cuisine and world-class international establishments. With inspiration on every corner, it is no wonder that English literature contains some of the most fascinating works that have ever been written.

Halal-friendly hotels in England

With the Muslim population well-established in England, more hotels are offering halal-friendly packages. Whether it's alcohol-free rooms, halal food options, prayer facilities or women-only areas, you'll always find a hotel that caters for your halal break. Luxury hotels such as the Shangri-La The Shard in London now provide halal food options upon request with a beautiful top-floor view of the Thames skyline, others offer halal food and prayer facilities welcoming you on your Muslim getaway.

The rise of the glamping experience is also worth a mention. The blend of glamour and camping in treehouses, yurts and cabins offers a chance to sleep under the stars and become one with nature, all with the luxury of comfort. You might even find facilities like fully-secluded private hot tubs, perfect for the Muslim family holiday.

Places to visit in England

England is a patchwork of serene countryside combined with the bustling atmosphere of the major cities. Chase the golden hour as there is always a scenic view all around to enjoy. Here are a few places well worth visiting:

Bath - The streets of Bath and its terraces surrounded by blooming gardens, host one of the most spectacular historic sites - the Roman Baths with their spring waters and picturesque views are unmissable. You will enjoy visiting the well-preserved remains and finding out more about the Roman way of life and bath traditions.

Cornwall - Cornwall is home to some of England’s most beautiful coastline, with sandy bays, dunes and cliffs. Watergate Bay , with stunning coastal views, and St Michaels , a tidal island with a rich history, are just two of Cornwall's most beautiful treasures. Another is the Eden Project – a tropical garden in two biomes that is second to none.

Cotswolds - Full of colourful cottages and a welcoming atmosphere, the Cotswolds is a land of fairytales, with quaint paths and blooming flowers and gardens. If you enjoy exploring pretty villages and beautiful countryside, there is plenty to do whatever the season. Perfect for a weekend getaway!

London - Each of the areas in London is unique, and expresses the diversity of the city, with its bustling street markets, restaurants and sunset river views. There is an unrivalled choice of halal food, from every corner of the globe, and even halal boat river cruises are available, making London perfect for the Muslim tourist.

Manchester - Manchester is one of England's best cities for tourists and is known for its museums, shopping, street art and overall welcoming atmosphere.

Yorkshire - Known as ‘God’s Own Country’, Yorkshire is home to national parks and villages, green valleys and waterfalls - the perfect place for your dose of fresh air. Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay are two of the seaside towns in Yorkshire, known for their fish and chips and beautiful views.

Mosques in England

Islam is the second biggest religion in England, with most of the country’s Muslim population living in cities and larger towns. This means that you will never find yourself too far from a place of worship and inspiration. Many cities have impressive mosques, which are well worth visiting. One of the country’s newest mosques is the Cambridge eco-mosque , billed as Europe’s first. It combines Islamic and English architectural traditions.

Halal-friendly experiences in England

There are many unique experiences for the Muslim traveller in England during any season, including bungee jumping, indoor ski slopes, skydiving, quad biking, ice skating and roller skating. One particular appealing activity is the prophetic sport of archery . Historically, archery was an important skill in the era of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for warfare and sport and the prophet actually encouraged people to learn the skill. Today, the revival of archery can be seen across England - become one with the traditions of the past and have fun reaping the physical benefits of archery, as well as the Islamic rewards on your Muslim travels.

Other sports celebrated across England include football and cricket, where guided stadium tours are available in the many famous stadiums of England. Tickets for matches can also be bought online for the sport-fanatics out there.

England also has a rich collection of arts to offer. Cities like Manchester, London and Bristol are known for their mural art and street graffiti, and are home to galleries expressing the colourful flare and creativity. Museums such as London’s National Gallery hosts historic works by famous artists of the past and its Tate Modern is renowned worldwide for contemporary arts. The creativity will be sure to bring you inspiration.

Halal food and restaurants in England

Home to one of the best food scenes, England has found itself evolving, adapting to other cultures and foods. International cuisine has become deeply ingrained within English culture, and Kebab, Chinese or Curry have even become a weekly ritual for many English people. For the Muslim traveller, there are many halal options, ranging from Turkish or Lebanese to Indian, with halal Korean, Thai, Caribbean and much more available within major cities. Many fast-food and chain restaurants, especially those in big cities, do use halal meat - it’s always worth checking.

For those looking for a more authentic English dinner, you are not out of luck. If you want to try the traditional English dish of fish and chips , you need to double-check that it is fried in vegetable oil - traditionally, the south of the country fries in vegetable oil and the north in beef dripping. The traditional Sunday roast might once have been inaccessible to the Muslim traveller due to a lack of halal dining, however, these days plenty of restaurants offer halal meat options - chicken is usually the most readily available halal meat in England. And lastly, the most English experience we know is the humble scone with afternoon tea . English people arguably consume more tea than anybody else, and afternoon tea is one of the traditions that have lasted the test of time.

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Eid al Adha 2024

7 days to go.

Estimated: Sunday, June 16, 2024

When is Eid Al Adha 2024?

Eid ul Adha 2024 or Bakra Eid 2024 is expected to be celebrated on  Sunday, 16th of June, 2024 . This is the tentative date as the actual date is contingent on the sighting of the moon of Dhul Hijjah, 1445, the 12th and last month of the  Islamic Calendar .

What is Eid al Adha?

Eid ul Adha  is a festival celebrated among Muslims all over the world in remembrance of the sacrifice that  Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.)  made out of his strong faith in Allah.

Ibrahim (AS) showed a willingness to sacrifice his son  Prophet Ismail (A.S.)  but his son was replaced with a lamb by Allah. Allah was so pleased with Ibrahim’s (A.S.) submission to Him that He made this demonstration of sacrifice and faith a permanent part of a Muslim’s life. This event is mentioned in Quran -  Surah As-Saffat (37:102) .

Hence, every year on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims all over the world celebrate  Eid ul Azha . On this day, Muslims slaughter a lamb, sheep, goat or camel to honor the sacrifice of Ibrahim (AS).

Both  Eid ul Fitr  and  Eid Al-Adha  have great significance in Islam as the same is evident from the following Hadith of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.):

“Allah has given you better than those feasts (festivals of non-believers): the ‘Eid-ul-Adha’ and ‘Eid-ul-Fitr.’”

(An-Nasai: 1556)

Fasting on Eid al-Adha and Eid ul-Fitr is strictly forbidden as the same is obvious from the following Hadith of our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.):

"No fasting is permissible on the two days of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha.”

(Sahih Bukhari: 1995)

First 10 days of Dhul Hijjah  

Dhul Hijjah  is one of the four sacred months of the Islamic Calendar and the  first 10 days of this month  are the days that are selected by Allah as the best days of the year.

(Surah At Taubah 9:36)

(Sahih Bukhari: 3197)

(Surah Al-Fajr 89:1-2)

1- There are many Hadiths and Quranic Ayahs which show great emphasis on  doing good deeds  during these blessed days. Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) said:

“No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhul Hijjah).’”

(Sahih Bukhari: 969)

2-  Rituals of Hajj  are started during  the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah  (from 8th to 13th).

3-  Fasting on the day of Arafah  (9th Dhul Hijjah) is a confirmed Sunnah of our beloved prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) but only for those who are not performing Hajj.  Fasting on this day  is rewarded with the forgiveness of Allah for the sins of the previous and following year.  (Ibn Majah: 1731)

4-  Eid al Adha  is celebrated during these 10 days (10th Dhul Hijjah) and animals are sacrificed on these days (10th to 13th).

5-  Days of Tashriq  start on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (9th to 13th) and these are days of eating and drinking. During the days of Tashriq, it is necessary for every Muslim (male or female, whether praying in the congregation or alone) to say the Takbir (Takbirs of Tashriq) immediately after each obligatory (fard) prayer from the Fajr Prayer on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah to the Asr Prayer on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Thus, these Takbirs last 5 days with 23 prayers in total.

Learn more about  'Virtues of the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah'

Celebration of eid al adha.

Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al Adha for two to four days (depending on the country). However, there are some Sunnah that every Muslim should follow while celebrating this great festival.

Sunnahs of Eid al Adha and Eid Prayer

1- Wake up early in the morning

2- Clean your teeth  with Miswak or a brush

3- Take a bath

4-  You should  wear your best clothes  on this day

5- Apply perfume

6- Refrain from eating before the Eid prayer

7- Recite the Takbir  of Tashriq in a loud voice while going for Eid prayer:

اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ ، اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ، اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ ، وَاللهُ أَكْبَرُ، اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ، وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْدُ

Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, Allahu akbar laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, wa Allaahu akbar, Allaah akbar, wa Lillaah il-hamd

(Allah is Most Great, Allaah is most Great, Allah is most Great there is no god but Allaah, Allaah is Most great, Allaah is most great, and to Allaah be praise)

  (Irwa Al Ghalil: 3 / 125)

8- Listen to Sermon (Khutba)  after offering Eid prayer.  (An-Nasai: 1517)   

9- Use different ways  while  going to the mosque and returning  after offering Eid Prayer.  (Sahih Bukhari: 986)

The scholars differed concerning the ruling on Eid prayers. However, all Muslims should attend the prayers of both Eids as most scholars, on the basis of strong evidence, is of opinion that it is Wajib (obligation). Apart from prayer, the Eid sermon (after Eid Prayer) has also been made an integral part of this gathering and the prayer.

1-  The time for Eid Prayer begins from the time the sun is three meters above the horizon until the sun reaches its meridian. However, it is better to offer the prayer in the early hours after sunrise.  (Abu Dawud: 1135)  

2-  Eid Prayer is performed without any ‘Iqmah’ or ‘Athan’.  [Sahih Muslim: 885 (b)]

3-  Eid prayer consists of two Rak'at (Two Unit Prayer) during which Tabkeer (Allah-u-Akbar) is announced seven times.  (Abu Dawud: 1149)  

4- The rest  of the Eid prayer is the same as other prayers offered daily.

5-  After completing the prayer, it is Sunnah (some scholars say that it is Wajib) to listen to the Sermon (Khutbah) after Eid Prayer. So one should stay for Imam’s sermon to end after completing the Eid Prayer.

 After listening to the sermon, Muslims congratulate each other with greetings such as ‘Eid Mubarak’, ‘Happy Eid, and عيد مبارك, etc. However, the most common  Eid Greeting  Muslims like to wish their friends and fellow Muslims with ‘Eid Mubarak’.

Sacrifice of Animal 

The sacrifice of an animal or Qurbani on the day of Eid al Adha is a confirmed Sunnah of not only Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) but also of our beloved Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.). However, some scholars are of the opinion that it is ‘Wajib’ (obligatory).

Sacrificing cattle in the way of Allah is a great act of worship. It brings the person offering the sacrifice close to Allah. 

Abu Hurairah (R.A.)  reported that Prophet (S.A.W.) said:

“Whoever can afford it [sacrifice], but does not offer a sacrifice, let him not come near our prayer place.”

(Ibn Majah: 3123)

The Hadith clearly mentions the importance of sacrificing in the way of Allah. It also includes a warning for those Muslims who have the means to offer a sacrifice on Eid ul Adha but don’t do so due to some worldly reason or lame excuse.

Rules of Sacrifice 

Anyone who intends to slaughter an animal on Eid ul Adha has to follow certain rules which are given below:

1- Sacrifice  of an animal for Eid al Adha  can only be done during the specified dates  i-e After Eid Prayer (10th of Dhul Hijjah) and before sunset of 13th Dhul Hijjah. Whoever does not follow these dates must know that their sacrifice will not be valid if it is not offered between the 10th - 13th of Dhul Hijjah. ( Sahih Bukhari: 5545  and  Sahih Muslim: 1141 ) 

2-  The  animal  to be sacrificed has to be one of the cattle  approved by the Shariah , which are; Camels, Cattle, Sheep, and Goat. ( Surah Hajj 22:34  and  Surah Al-Anaam 6:143 )

3-  A  sheep or goat is used as a single offering  and is sufficient for one household whereas  a   camel or a cow can be shared by seven people .  [Sahih Muslim: 1318(a) and 1961(a)]

4- The animal  to be sacrificed  has to be an adult  and should have reached the age stipulated in Shariah.

• Goat, either male or female, of at least one year of age.
• Sheep, either male or female, of at least six months of age.
• Cow, ox, and buffalo of at least two years of age. 
• Camel, male or female, of at least five years of age.

5- The animal must be a healthy one  and should be free from obvious defects.  (Saheeh Al-Jami: 886)

6-  The person offering should only have one  intention  i-e sacrificing in the name of Allah. The animal to be sacrificed must be in the person's full possession (it is not stolen or taken by force or in joint procession or held in pledge).

7-  The person who intends to offer sacrifice  should not remove any hair, nail or skin  from the sunset on the last day of Dhul Qadah until the sacrifice is done on the day of Eid.  (Ibn Majah: 3150)

8-  The person should  slaughter the animal with his own hands  in order to fulfill the Sunnah. However, if one is not able to do so then he can appoint someone else to do the same on his behalf but one should witness his slaughter/sacrifice.  (Sahih Bukhari: 5554)

9-  The person should mention the name of Allah and recite Takbeer  (Bismillah, Allahu Akbar)  at the time of slaughtering the animal.  (Sahih Bukhari: 5558)

10-  Many scholars are of the opinion that the  meat of the sacrificed animal  should be  divided into three parts . One-third for the person (and his family) who is offering the sacrifice, one third should be distributed among the relatives/neighbors as a gift and one third should be given in charity to poor people. 

11-  All parts of the sacrificed animal can be used for personal benefit but  none can be sold or given as payment  (even to the butcher as his wage) otherwise, the sacrifice will become invalid.  (Sahih Al-Jami: 6118)

Enjoy this festival by thanking Allah for His blessings and for providing you the opportunity to fulfill this great Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S). But don’t forget your under-privileged fellow Muslim brother and sisters who don’t have the means to celebrate this blessed festival.

Also, remember us and all Muslim Ummah in your Duas on this special occasion of Eid.

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‘Scottish Swifties party hard’: Taylor Swift kicks off the UK leg of her Eras Tour in Edinburgh

The independent spoke to fans who had journeyed from as far as texas and toronto for taylor’s first uk eras tour show, article bookmarked.

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It’s the biggest show on Earth : over a billion dollars in revenue, millions of fans, and even more friendship bracelets. On a sun-dappled Friday evening in Edinburgh, Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour landed in the UK.

All around the city, local businesses got into the spirit of Swiftmania. Hotel lobbies were decorated with balloons, streamers, and cardboard cutouts of the US singer. On every corner, hit singles such as the wistful synth-pop of “All You Had to Do Was Stay” and the defiant bop “Shake It Off” were blasted from pub speakers.

Over a year since the opening concert in Arizona, Swift, 34, finally touched down in the UK, for the first of three nights at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh where hundreds of fans had camped the night before as they vied for a spot in front of the stage. Along the route, vendors flogged pink cowboy hats, feather boas, and heart-shaped sunglasses.

Outside the venue, however, Swifties were already donning their best outfits that often referenced one of the pop star’s various “eras”. There were shades of bright scarlet and deep crimson paying homage to Swift’s 2012 record, Red , while others dressed in dark glittering indigo and lavender in a nod to 2022’s Midnights . Soft pastel tones and sequins represented her hit album Lover , while her twin records Folklore and Evermore inspired swathes of white lace and earthy colours in the crowd.

Speaking to The Independent ahead of the show, Hannah, 33, said she had travelled from Texas to see Swift, citing cheaper tickets and her “very wonderful boyfriend”.

It was the first time she would be seeing the singer live. “It’s incredible,” Hannah said. “Everyone is so kind, it feels like family. It’s the most welcoming atmosphere you could imagine.”

Tom, 28, from Edinburgh, fell in love with Swift’s music a few years ago, after hearing the dreamy, Eighties-influenced “Style”. He stood outside the stadium wearing a hot pink cowboy hat, grinning as fans filtered past. “This is my first show,” he said. “I came on my own, I literally bought a ticket last minute today. I can’t believe I’m here.”

The frenzy over Swift’s show has drawn comparisons to Beatlemania, with attention this time directed not at a Fab Four but at the lone figure who strode out onto the stage in her shimmering sequined bodysuit. Beaming, Swift launched into a dazzling opening salvo comprising songs from her 2019 record Lover .

“We’ve checked this about 20 times,” she said, addressing her adoring audience, “and this is the biggest stadium in Scottish history.” 73,000 fans screamed their approval. “Edinburgh, you’ve made us feel so welcome.”

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The atmosphere was nothing short of electric. This far into the tour, most fans were well acquainted with not just the material, but all of Swift’s moves: every wink, every wave, every hair flick. They sang along to the bridge of “Cruel Summer” without missing a beat and roared “f*** the patriarchy” on the 10-minute version of “All Too Well”.

As she clambered down from her to-scale treehouse, Swift congratulated a couple who got engaged during her performance of “Cardigan”.

“I don’t usually get to see those,” she said. “Thank you for getting engaged at my show!”

She kept an eye out for fans who might have become overwhelmed or dehydrated. “I’m just gonna keep doing this until [security] know where I’m looking at,” she said, aiming her guitar to a spot in the crowd during the acoustic segment of her tour.

Moments later, her hand froze during a rendition of “Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve”, and Swift quite literally had to “Shake It Off”.

“This is so embarrassing,” she told fans as she appeared to wrestle with cramp. “I must have done this a million times and my hand has never formed a claw before.”

Even before Swift kicked off her Eras tour in Glendale, Arizona, in March last year, the pop star’s mammoth stadium show – spanning her full catalogue and comprising nearly two decades’ worth of hits – had already generated headlines around the world. It even sparked a minor diplomatic row in southeast Asia.

Last month, it was predicted that this UK leg could generate close to a £1bn boost for the economy , as politicians scrambled to confirm their allegiance. London mayor Sadiq Khan declared himself a “proud Swiftie” to The Independent , as he expressed his excitement over welcoming the pop titan to the capital in August.

Swift’s prolificity over the past five years has ensured that she continues to dominate headlines like no other artist. Since the surprise release of twin albums Folklore and Evermore – conceived after she was forced to cancel her Lover tour due to onset of the pandemic – she has barely paused for breath. She triumphed at the 2021 Grammy Awards, making history as the first woman to win Album of the Year three times.

Next, she released two of her album re-recordings , Red and Fearless , with each billed as “Taylor’s Version” as part of her ongoing bid to reclaim the rights to her masters – following a public row with controversial music mogul Scooter Braun. Then came Midnights , the 2022 album produced with frequent collaborator Jack Antonoff, securing yet another history-making achievement – the first artist in history to win four Grammys for Album of the Year.

Which brought us to her 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department , announced as Swift collected yet another Grammy at the ceremony in Los Angeles, and released on 19 April. Widely believed to be about her brief dalliance with The 1975 frontman Matty Healy, as well as her split from her boyfriend of six years, British actor Joe Alwyn, it polarised critics ( The Independent ’s Helen Brown awarded it five stars) . Yet naysayers didn’t impede Swift’s shattering of myriad chart and streaming records.

“I think it takes a few weeks to grow on you,” fan Isla said, defending the record from negative reviews during the concert. “I actually think it’s one of her best albums.”

After the show, when the final burst of fireworks had drifted into smoke, Swifties lingered in the stadium, flushed, beaming and awestruck, or else made the dash for the first tram outside, shivering in their dresses.

“I grew up listening to her in elementary school, so this is a special moment,” Sarah, 35, said, revealing she’d come from Toronto, Canada. “Her music has been a part of my whole childhood, my youth, and now my adulthood. She means everything to me.”

Sarah also praised the Scottish fans, saying they “liked to party a little harder” than Canadian Swifties. “They’ve got incredible energy, everyone’s just so much fun,” she said.

Joseph, 24, who was dressed in head-to-toe pink sequins, had come from Aberdeen on his own. “I’ve been waiting for years to see her live, and she was even better than I thought she’d be,” he said.

Swift’s music from her Folklore and Evermore eras meant the most to him, he said, as his grandmother died during the pandemic and those songs reminded him of her.

Katrina attended the concert with her 10-year-old daughter, Tamsin, who got to see Swift for the first time. “I really wanted to hear her do ‘Cardigan’ live, because that’s my favourite,” she said. “I think she’s the best singer in the world.”

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• Southeast Asian destinations take top ranks in Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index 2024

Southeast Asia has once again emerged as the world’s leading Muslim tourist destination in the latest edition of the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), with Indonesia and Malaysia tied for the top spot among 145 destinations in the 2024 study. Meanwhile, Singapore has consistently led among Non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC 1 ) destinations for the ninth consecutive year, underscoring its unwavering dedication to cater to Muslim travelers by widespread availability of Halal food, prayer facilities, suitable airport amenities, and Muslim-friendly accommodation.

According to the report, the Muslim travel market is set for a significant uptick this year, with global international arrivals potentially reaching up to 168 million, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by as much as 5 percent. This growth in volume highlights the rising prominence of the segment, driven by demographic and economic expansion, cultural and Halal tourism development, and technological advancements that enable more personalized travel experiences for Muslim travelers, such as apps that locate Halal food outlets, Qibla directions, and prayer timings. The impact of artificial intelligence is also helping further customize travel experiences to simplify travel logistics while adhering to faith traditions.

Retaining their joint top position as the leading OIC 2 destinations for Muslim travelers for the 2 nd consecutive year, Indonesia and Malaysia also scored favorably on ease of entry and quality of tourism infrastructure for both Muslim and non-Muslim travelers.

Thailand maintained its position in the top five non-OIC destinations, owing to efforts towards promoting Halal tourism like increasing Halal food availability, integration of Muslim-friendly amenities at tourist spots, and enhanced accommodation and dining options for Muslim travelers.

Meanwhile, the Philippines recorded an increase in its score on communications compared to 2023. Among non-OIC destinations, the Philippines has steadily increased its appeal to Muslim tourists by strategically developing their Halal Tourism portfolio, enhancing halal accreditation of hotels and restaurants, and conducting Halal awareness orientations. This effort builds on their achievement of winning the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year award in last year’s Halal in Travel Global Summit, based on GMTI 2023 results.

GMTI, now in its ninth year, analyzes data across 145 destinations using the ACES framework, built around metrics on Access, Communication, Environment, and Services. Over time, the criteria have evolved to keep pace with the changing needs of Muslim travelers. This year, new metrics on availability of facilities and services for travelers with disabilities were added to the model.

“It is encouraging to see that the travel sectors in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore not only maintained their rankings in this year's GMTI, but also improved their individual scores. This reflects a broader trend of increased consideration for Muslim travelers, with average scores across the Index rising by 10 percent,” said Fazal Bahardeen, Founder & CEO, CrescentRating. Mr. Bahardeen also added: “It is also positive to see the Philippines continue to improve its score, which demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Department of Tourism to bolstering Muslim-friendly tourism and advancing the destination's appeal. As Muslim travel continues to gain momentum, the GMTI 2024 report provides invaluable insights for stakeholders across the travel and tourism sector to leverage the growing Muslim travel market.”

Safdar Khan, division president, Southeast Asia, Mastercard, said: “According to the latest report from the Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) ,  travelers from and to Southeast Asia are becoming increasingly focused on getting the best value from their trips to ensure the most unforgettable experiences, a shift echoed in the rapidly growing global Halal tourism industry. At the same time, technology is helping this demographic to travel in ways that meet their unique needs, from AI-powered hyper-personalized experiences to Mastercard’s own enablement of easy and secure cross-border payments. Together this heralds a new level of convenience for Muslim travelers and unlocks a new era of growth and profitability for travel operators. Mastercard’s long-running collaboration with CrescentRating is both a testament to the strength of the partnership and the ongoing importance of understanding and serving Muslim travelers.”

Download the GMTI 2024 report here: https://www.crescentrating.com/halal-muslim-travel-market-reports.html

1 Non-OIC countries are those that are not members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. These countries may have significant Muslim populations or cater to Muslim travelers but are not officially part of the OIC.

2 The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is an international organization consisting of 57 member states, which are primarily Muslim-majority countries. The OIC aims to safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony.

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CrescentRating’s products and services include rating & accreditation, research & consultancy, training, & certification (CR Academy), industry reports, Halal-In-Travel conferences, HalalChefWorld program, destination marketing and content provisioning. HalalTrip is a sister brand of CrescentRating.

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• Churches Unite Ahead of Upcoming Franklin Graham UK Tour

By Kali Zakariasen   •   June 7, 2024

Mark O’Rorke remembers it like it was yesterday. He was in the stands for Billy Graham’s 1984 Crusade at the Villa Park stadium in Birmingham, England.

“His voice was so tremendous, powerful. When he started speaking, I got shivers,” O’Rorke said.

“I can still remember his invitation to ‘get out of your seats and come down’, and boy, did they come down.”

Three of then-18-year-old O’Rorke’s friends went forward at Graham’s invitation that night.

“It was a special time,” he said.

Nearly 40 years later, he has a passion to see more people meet Jesus at the upcoming Franklin Graham God Loves You Tour events in Birmingham and then 300 miles to the north in Glasgow, Scotland.

That’s why he’s volunteering at the Birmingham event, which will take place on June 15 in Resorts World Arena—a short drive from Villa Park.

“It’s interesting that 40 years later, we are seeing Billy Graham’s son come,” he said.

Over 50 people from his church—and many friends and family members who don’t know Christ—are filling up a bus to head to the event.

“We live in a very somber and depressive world right now, and I think people are looking for faith,” O’Rorke said. “As believers, we have hope. I pray that people would come seeking that hope.”

More than 400 churches across the country are supporting the upcoming tour in prayer, some hosting Christian Life and Witness Classes (CLWC)—trainings that equip Christians to more confidently share their faith.

So far, churches have come together for 70 training seminars and worship nights ahead of the tour—uniting to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

“I want for everyone who is going to go through the those doors [on June 15] to sense joy, peace, and happiness, and when the invitation is given, that [local believers] get to see them go forward to accept Christ,” said Joe Kim, City Tour Director for the event.

“We are very much looking forward to what God is going to do.”

>>Please pray for the God Loves You Tour on June 15 in Birmingham and in Glasgow, Scotland the following weekend.

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I want to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in countries around the world through these evangelistic, multi-city tours.

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Gladness on sunday.

Taylor Swift adds three opening acts to her summer Eras Tour concerts in London

Taylor Swift is adding three opening acts to her Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium in June and August, the singer announced Monday on Instagram.

"I just found out Fortnight is #1 on the UK airplay chart!!!!" Swift said on her Instagram story. "Thought this might be a fun time to announce the first group of opening acts I'll be adding to the London shows, going on before Paramore. I chose artists whose music I love listening to, and I can't wait for them to add an extra jolt of excitement to our shows."

The three acts are METTE , Griff and Benson Boone .

"I need a moment," Griff said on her Instagram story. Her debut album, "VERTIGO," is out July 19.

Swift will perform 51 shows in Europe through August. She has already completed three of 18 cities: Paris , Stockholm and Lisbon . Her next stop is Madrid.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

She'll play in Wembley for eight shows in London: June 21-23 and Aug. 15, 16, 17, 19 and 20.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the  free, weekly newsletter This Swift Beat.  

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X as @BryanWestTV .

Taylor Swift latest: Star forced to take guitar break due to 'weird cramp'; fans spotted getting 'engaged'

The singer's global tour - the highest-grossing of all time - has performed her first UK Eras show in Edinburgh. You can all the latest updates, fan reaction and the concert as it happened below...

Friday 7 June 2024 23:29, UK

• Taylor Swift

• 'Wildest way to welcome a lass': Roar of fans 'deafening' as Swift opens UK leg of Eras tour
• Taylor forced to take a guitar break due to 'weird cramp'
• Superstar spots engagement in the crowd  
• 'I would kill for her' - Fan slept in the street to be allowed in
• Katie Spencer review : Swift's proved herself as a prolific songwriter and the ultimate show-woman
• Calendar of Swift's UK tour dates
• Live reporting by  Jess Sharp  and (earlier) Bhvishya Patel

Well that's all from us tonight, thank you for following along. 

If you are heading back from Murrayfield Stadium, get home safe, and if you're already in bed, have a good sleep.

Rest those vocal cords Swifties - Tay Tay will be back tomorrow. 

Sadly, the show has come to an end. 

Taylor Swift fans will definitely be hoarse tomorrow after constantly singing, cheering and shouting for more than three hours. 

Before we close our live coverage, here's a look at some of the best pictures from tonight's concert...

By Katie Spencer , arts and entertainment correspondent at Murrayfield Stadium 

Taylor Swift has smashed a triumphant set in front of enormous crowds in Edinburgh on her record-breaking Eras tour, telling fans it was "the wildest way to welcome a lass". 

As she welcomed the crowd, she announced it was officially the highest attended stadium show in Scottish history.

"Oh hi," she casually told the more than 70,000 people who came to see her perform.

The 34-year-old star initially took to the stage in a diamante encrusted corseted leotard and bejewelled cowboy boots.

She later admitted: "This tour has been the most fun I've had in my entire life….my one regret now is that I really should have come to perform in Scotland more.

"I can't stop staring at you, I'm captivated by this audience."

Blasting through her biggest hits in a set of 40+ songs, on stage for more than three hours, she promised to take fans on a "grand adventure" they'd never forget. She certainly did that.

"After tonight, you're going to think about us and the memories we made," she promised.

The evening was "unforgettable", she told the crowd, while her last song of the night, Karma, was dedicated to the crowd.

"Edinburgh you have given us everything you could possibly give us tonight."

It was a pinch yourself evening for Swifties fortunate enough to get a ticket. Lyrics memorised, costumes perfected.

The show a musical marathon which demonstrated not only why Swift is arguably one of the greatest songwriters of modern pop music but also one of the world's most accomplished performers.

The show itself, paced perfectly to hold the audience's interest with slick dance routines and theatrical, at times fantastical, staging.

The screams of support for her most famous hits were deafening. Countless fans leaving Murrayfield hoarse after she told the story of her eight Eras whilst delivering the ultimate singalong.

This was a long day for many, a hardened few sat outside since dawn to be among the first in-line to secure a front row spot.

"Anything's worth it for Taylor," Julia had told me at 7am outside the stadium. Her friend admitting she'd "sell my kidneys, probably both lungs" to get close to the star.

Why does she elicit such a reaction? Despite her billionaire status, Swift has somehow remained an artist whose voice remains real, authentic and honest.

Her songwriting - a shared diary of sorts - resonating all the more for her openness about her flaws, bad break-ups, sharing with fans not only the joy of falling in love, but the heartbreak.

The crowd at Murrayfield were word-perfect for her hits like You Belong With Me, the stadium echoing with noise during We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together

If performing songs from her Tortured Poets Department Era - her latest album written about her ill-fated London loves - took on more poignancy for Swift this being the UK leg of her tour, she gave no indication on stage.

An all but faultless performance but for the acoustic section of her show, where the star was forced to briefly stop playing the guitar, saying: "My hand has frozen in a weird cramp... this is so embarrassing... its like performing with a claw. No one relates."

While it's understandable that many balk at the stupidly expensive price of some VIP packages, few could question Taylor's commitment to offering her fans the ultimate experience. The confetti canons and fireworks, a needless distraction really from what she does best - singing out.

A one-woman economy boosting machine, Swift's 15 UK shows are projected by some to boost the UK economy by almost £1bn with fans shelling out, not only on tickets, but accommodation, travel, and pre-show parties.

I spoke to people who travelled here from Spain, The Netherlands, America, India and even Australia.

Fans who'd spent months planning their costumes, painstakingly threading bracelets, embroidering jackets, which is undoubtedly half the fun.

While this level of pop obsession is nothing new, that one artist can still achieve this in an age where we are swamped with musical choice speaks volumes as to the power of Swift's music.

Forget about politicians touring the country, Taylor Swift's whereabouts will be what's dominating the national conversation for vast swathes of the country over the next month.

While some may scoff at the tweeness of swapping friendship bracelets, dressing-up and glitter - there is a delightfulness to being a part of the Swift crowd which is a warm and welcoming world.

Swift's proving herself to be, not only a prolific songwriter, but the ultimate showwoman.

That's it Swifties, the first UK Eras tour show has come to an end.

Taylor Swift closed Murrayfield Stadium with a huge confetti cannon display as she performed Karma for her adoring fans. 

The superstar has been performing for more than three hours and the crowd has spent that time cheering, clapping and singing their hearts out. 

She will be back at the stadium for another show tomorrow night, and the night after, being moving on to Anfield Stadium in Liverpool. 

Rewinding slightly to the start of the show, here's the moment Taylor Swift spoke to her fans in Edinburgh during her opening act. 

The superstar welcomed them to the Eras tour, telling them the last time she was in Scotland was more than a decade ago. 

"Tonight's concert is the most highly attended show in Scottish history," she said. 

"This is the wildest way to welcome a lass to your city." 

Murrayfield Stadium was lit up by fans during Taylor Swift's performance of Daylight from her Lover album. 

Thousands of fans held up their glowing bracelets and phones during the song. 

Here's a clip...

The show is almost coming to an end and Swift is going out in her Midnights era. 

She kicks off with a rendition of Lavender Haze, emerging on the stage in a faux fur purple coat and black knee-high boots. 

Taylor has moved to her acoustic section now - a moment fans have been waiting for. 

This is the time the superstar performs two surprise tracks, which change at every show. 

Many had thought she might pick Castles Crumbling from Speak Now as a reference to Edinburgh Castle.

But as she begins the set, with Would've Should've Could've from Midnights, she is forced to briefly stop playing her guitar. 

"My hand has frozen in a weird cramp…this is so embarrassing….its like performing with a claw," she tells the crowd.

"No one relates." 

 By Jenness Mitchell , Scotland reporter

A baker has created a Swift-themed cake to celebrate the star's arrival and is hoping it makes it to her. 

Cathryn Klawikowska, 34, took eight hours to bake the nine-layer red velvet treat.

Edyta Matysiak took three days to make the figurine.

Ms Klawikowska, head designer at 3D Cakes near Murrayfield, hopes it will end up backstage at the stadium.

She added: "I'm hoping to get this to Taylor though."

Swift turns now to her latest album - the Tortured Poets Department. 

She kicks off the era with But Daddy I Love Him and comes out wearing a gorgeous white gown covered in lyrics. 

"I love you, it's ruining my life" can be seen across it - lyrics from her biggest hit of the album Fortnight. 

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Watch: Criterium du Dauphine crash involving more than 50 riders on treacherous downhill section

Stage five is neutralised because of a lack of ambulances available to support French road race

Stage five of the Criterium du Dauphine in France had to be neutralised following two huge crashes on a treacherous downhill section with just over 21km remaining.

Race leader Remco Evenepoel (Soudal-Quick Step), Primož Roglič (Bora-Hansgrohe) and Juan Ayuso (UAE Team Emirates) was among the riders to suffer injuries after around 50 riders went down on the slick, wet run-in to the finish in Saint-Priest.

Some riders escaped relatively lightly. Roglic was quickly back on his feet, Evenepoel was slower to get up, and there will be some concern at QuickStep given he appeared to hit his head and the same shoulder he fractured two months ago at Itzulia Basque Country. It remains to be seen whether the Belgian continues in the yellow jersey on Friday, though team principal Patrick Lefevere suggested he would.

“I got an update from our team doctor, and it looks like it will remain bumps and bruises. From our team, only Antoine Huby needs some stitches, but that is not super urgent,” Lefevere said in an interview with Sporza. “But it is not fun. You can also imagine that Remco would immediately be scared and reach for his shoulder after a crash like that, after what he experienced in the Basque Country. But it looks like it will be okay.”

The Visma-Lease a Bike pairing of Dylan van Baarle and Steven Kruijswijk were both forced to abandon due to injuries sustained. It is the latest misfortune to befall the Dutch team, who won all three grand tours last year but have had a wretched couple of months with injuries to stars Wout van Aert and Jonas Vingegaard.

After much consultation, organisers announced that because of the lack of ambulances remaining, the peloton would ride the final kilometres into Saint-Priest together, but there would be no stage winner and no time awarded for the general classification.

“In accordance with the jury of commissaires of the UCI it’s been decided that due to the fact there are no ambulances can take care of the security of the riders because they are all busy going to different hospitals, the race will be neutralised,” read a statement. “The race will be neutralised and the peloton will ride all the way to the finish line under the escort of the Garde Republicaine. The times will not be taken into account, there will not be a winner for today’s stage.”

Meanwhile, British champion Pfeiffer Georgi and two-time race winner Lizzie Deignan finished third and fourth respectively on Stage 1 of the newly-rebranded Tour of Britain Women.

Georgi (Team DSM-Firmenich-PostNl) and Deignan, who is riding for the Great Britain national team this week as her Lidl-Trek team have not entered the race, were part of an elite nine-rider breakaway which escaped heading into the final in Llandudno, at the end of a lumpy stage from Welshpool. Deignan’s teammate Anna Henderson also made it into the group.

In the end, world champion Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx-Protime) won on the Welsh seafront ahead of Letizia Paternoster (Liv-AlUla-Jayco) in a photo finish to grab the race lead. But the British trio are well placed overall, with the escapees heading into Friday’s second stage with a lead of 3min50sec over the rest of the field.

This year’s race, the first following the appointment of the former Team Sky and Ineos Grenadiers deputy team principal Rod Ellingworth as Tour of Britain race director, was reduced to four stages to give it a better chance of going ahead following the collapse of long-time promoter SweetSpot at the end of last year.

British Cycling decided to take on the running of both the men’s and women’s events, and while there have been moments this year when it looked as if both might be in trouble, the governing body has managed to get them up and running.

The recent injection of around £20m into British Cycling’s coffers from Lloyds Bank, who have taken on title sponsorship of both races, has been described as “game-changing” by the governing body’s chief executive Jon Dutton.

Dutton says the hope is to grow the women’s event back up to six days next year, when all the big World Tour teams should once again be involved. The uncertainty this year meant that many of them opted to compete elsewhere.

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