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Bordered by Canada on the north and Mexico on the south, the country is bound by the Atlantic Ocean on the east, the Pacific Ocean on the west, while the Gulf of Mexico touches its southeast coast.

The U.S. comprises 48 contiguous states, with the state of Alaska and the island state of Hawaii in the mid-Pacific forming the 49th and 50th states respectively. The geography of the country ranges from the Arctic in Alaska to subtropical features in Hawaii and Florida.

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A vast country with so much to see, you'll have to visit the USA more than once to experience all it has to offer.    From its celebrated coastline to its broad heartland and granite Sierra peaks, California offers a lifetime of vacations in one Golden State. In a place this big and diverse, there is truly something for everyone—and plenty left over to keep you coming back. Sunny beaches and surfers in the waves, jaw-dropping parklands and vistas worthy of any bucket list—California has incomparable star quality. Enjoy a kid’s wish list of iconic theme parks and whether seen from a five-star hotel balcony or through tent flaps, California is truly golden.

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With a large migrant population, you'll find halal dining options and mosques in many cities across the USA, from New York to Los Angeles. Of course, knowing where they are is also quite useful. Check out our friends at Have Halal Will Travel for their awesome guides on travelling to the USA. 

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Once you’ve seen Central Park under a fresh coat of snow, you’ll understand why so many visitors have fond memories of winter in NYC. Among the season’s main draws are open-air ice-skating rinks and holiday festivities. It’s also a good time to try indoor attractions like the venerable institutions on Museum Mile or live music and comedy shows.   From road trips and outdoor thrills to rejuvenating resorts and unique local cuisine, Arizona teems with exciting travel adventures. Experience the exhilarating scenery, including the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon National Park and the Sonoran Desert. Averaging more than 325 days of sunshine a year, you can always plan on perfect weather.

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The Rise of Halal Tourism: What You Need to Know

Experience a groundbreaking shift in the travel industry with the unstoppable rise of Halal Tourism. In recent years, halal tourism has emerged as a significant trend in the global tourism industry. It refers to a form of travel that caters to Muslim travelers’ specific needs and requirements, such as access to Halal food, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated accommodations.

The demand for Halal tourism has been steadily growing in recent years, driven by the rise of the Muslim middle class and increasing global awareness of Halal tourism products and services. According to the 2018 State of the Global Islamic Economy Report, the Muslim travel market is projected to be worth over $220 billion by 2020, indicating the vast potential for Halal tourism.

For Muslim travelers, Halal tourism allows them to explore the world without compromising their faith and values. It allows them to experience different cultures, traditions, and cuisines while adhering to Islamic principles. Halal tourism also offers Muslim travelers comfort and familiarity when traveling to destinations that may not have a significant Muslim population or are unfamiliar with Islamic practices.

As the global Muslim population continues to grow, and more Muslim travelers are seeking Halal-friendly destinations, the tourism industry needs to understand the significance of Halal tourism and its potential impact on the industry. The tourism industry must adapt to cater to Muslim travelers’ unique needs and preferences to tap into the growing market and unlock new opportunities.

Halal tourism is a type of tourism that caters to the specific needs and requirements of Muslim travelers. It involves offering facilities and services that align with Islamic beliefs and practices, such as access to Halal food, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated accommodations.

One of the defining characteristics of Halal tourism is the emphasis on providing a comfortable and familiar environment for Muslim travelers. This may include offering Halal food options, ensuring access to prayer facilities, and providing information about local customs and practices. Halal tourism destinations also prioritize cultural sensitivity and respect towards Islamic values and traditions.

Halal tourism has been gaining popularity in recent years, with more and more destinations recognizing the importance of catering to the Muslim travel market. According to the Global Muslim Travel Index 2019, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Turkey were the top three Halal-friendly destinations. The most popular types of Halal tourism are family-friendly travel and Halal-friendly beach holidays.

Furthermore, the report revealed that Muslim travelers spent an estimated $194 billion on tourism in 2018, indicating the potential for significant economic benefits for Halal tourism destinations. The report also projected that the Muslim travel market would continue to grow, with a projected 156 million Muslim travelers by 2023.

Several key factors have contributed to the rise of Halal tourism in recent years.

Firstly, the global Muslim population is increasing, with an estimated 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. As a result, the Muslim travel market is expanding, with more and more Muslim travelers seeking destinations that cater to their needs and preferences.

Secondly, there has been a significant rise in the middle class in many Muslim countries, leading to increased disposable income and greater travel demand. These travelers often seek more upscale and Halal-friendly travel options, including access to Halal food, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated accommodations.

Thirdly, there has been a notable increase in awareness and availability of Halal tourism products and services. Travel companies and destinations recognize the importance of catering to the Muslim travel market and offer more Halal-friendly options. For example, hotels and restaurants offer Halal food and prayer facilities, and airlines provide Halal meals on flights.

In addition, social media and online platforms have significantly increased awareness of Halal tourism. Muslim travelers can easily research and compare Halal-friendly destinations and travel options, allowing them to make informed decisions about their travel plans.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect

Halal tourism is a type of tourism that caters to the specific needs and requirements of Muslim travelers. The following are some of the critical features of Halal tourism:

• Halal food and beverages: Halal food and beverages are crucial to Halal tourism. Muslim travelers require access to food that adheres to Islamic dietary guidelines, such as the absence of pork and alcohol. Halal tourism destinations must offer food options and information about the ingredients and preparation methods.
• Prayer facilities and services: Access to prayer facilities and services is another essential feature of Halal tourism. Muslim travelers require access to clean and private prayer spaces, including mosques or prayer rooms within hotels and other accommodations. Halal tourism destinations must ensure these facilities are available and provide information about prayer times and directions.
• Gender-segregated accommodations and facilities: Many Muslim travelers prefer gender-segregated accommodations and facilities, such as separate swimming pools, spas, and gyms. Halal tourism destinations must provide options for gender-segregated facilities and ensure they are accessible to all travelers.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect: Halal tourism destinations must demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect towards Islamic values and traditions. This may include providing information about local customs and practices, avoiding activities that may be offensive or inappropriate, and offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for Muslim travelers.

Halal tourism can bring a range of benefits to destinations, local communities, and travelers themselves. The following are some of the critical benefits of Halal tourism:

• Economic benefits for destinations: Halal tourism can provide significant economic benefits to destinations by attracting a growing market of Muslim travelers. Muslim travelers spend more money on travel than other travelers, focusing on luxury and Halal-friendly accommodations, Halal food and beverages, and access to prayer facilities and services. By catering to the needs and preferences of Muslim travelers, Halal tourism destinations can unlock new sources of revenue and create jobs and opportunities for local businesses.
• Social benefits for local communities: Halal tourism can also bring social benefits to local communities by promoting cultural exchange and understanding. Muslim travelers often seek authentic cultural experiences and may be interested in learning about local customs, traditions, and practices. This can increase engagement with local communities and cultural exchange and promote intercultural understanding and tolerance.
• Increased intercultural understanding and tolerance: Halal tourism can also contribute to increased intercultural understanding and tolerance by promoting cross-cultural interactions and exchange. By creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for Muslim travelers, Halal tourism destinations can foster greater understanding and respect for Islamic values and traditions, promoting a more inclusive and tolerant society.

While Halal tourism presents significant opportunities, it also faces several challenges related to infrastructure and services. The following are some of the critical challenges and opportunities facing Halal tourism:

• Challenges related to infrastructure and services: One of the primary challenges facing Halal tourism is the lack of Halal-friendly infrastructure and services in many destinations. This includes Halal food and beverages, access to prayer facilities and services, and gender-segregated accommodations and facilities. Additionally, cultural and language barriers may make it difficult for Muslim travelers to navigate unfamiliar destinations.
• Opportunities for innovation and growth: Despite these challenges, Halal tourism presents significant opportunities for innovation and growth. The growing demand for Halal tourism has led to the emergence of new Halal-friendly products and services, including Halal-certified accommodations, travel agencies, and tour operators. This has created opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to enter the Halal tourism market and develop new products and services to cater to the needs of Muslim travelers.
• The role of technology in Halal tourism: Technology also plays a critical role in Halal tourism, providing solutions to many of the challenges facing Muslim travelers. Mobile applications, for example, can help Muslim travelers find Halal food options, prayer facilities, and Halal-friendly accommodations. Social media can also significantly promote Halal tourism and connect Muslim travelers with like-minded individuals and communities.

To successfully cater to Halal travelers, destinations must understand Muslim travelers’ specific needs and preferences and develop tailored products and services. The following are some best practices for Halal-friendly destinations:

• Halal food and beverages: Halal food and beverages are a fundamental requirement for Muslim travelers. Destinations should ensure ample options for Halal food and beverages, including Halal-certified restaurants and food markets. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of what constitutes Halal food and beverages, as specific guidelines must be followed.
• Prayer facilities and services: Muslim travelers need access to prayer facilities and services, including prayer rooms and mosques. These facilities should be clean and accessible, and there should be a clear understanding of prayer times and the direction of Mecca.
• Gender-segregated accommodations and facilities: Many Muslim travelers prefer such accommodations and facilities as swimming pools and gyms. Destinations should ensure ample options for gender-segregated facilities and that they are marked.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect: Destinations should be sensitive to Muslim travelers’ cultural and religious norms, including dress codes and social customs. This includes training staff on cultural sensitivity and providing educational materials to visitors.

To implement these best practices effectively, destinations must collaborate and partner with local businesses and organizations. This includes working with Halal-certified suppliers and tour operators and engaging with local Muslim communities to ensure that their needs and preferences are met.

Halal tourism is a rapidly growing market that has gained significant attention recently. This article discusses the rise of Halal tourism, its key features, benefits, challenges, and opportunities. We have also explored how destinations can cater to Halal travelers by implementing best practices such as providing Halal food and beverages, prayer facilities and services, gender-segregated accommodations and facilities, and cultural sensitivity and respect. Collaboration and partnerships with local businesses and organizations, as well as Halal tourism certification, can help destinations to effectively cater to Muslim travelers and tap into this growing market.

Looking to the future, Halal tourism presents significant potential for growth and economic development for destinations that embrace this market. As the Muslim population continues to grow and the middle class in Muslim countries rises, the demand for Halal tourism will likely increase. Therefore, it is crucial for stakeholders in the tourism industry, including destinations, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, to embrace Halal tourism and adapt their products and services to meet the needs and preferences of Muslim travelers.

In conclusion, Halal tourism is a dynamic and growing market with significant potential for destinations and businesses willing to embrace it. By implementing best practices, collaborating with local businesses and organizations, and obtaining Halal tourism certification, destinations can effectively cater to the needs of Muslim travelers and tap into this lucrative market.

We call on all stakeholders in the tourism industry to recognize the importance of Halal tourism and take action to embrace this growing market. Join the global movement and embrace the Rise of Halal Tourism for an unforgettable journey that respects your faith and offers remarkable exploration.

About Hafiz M. Ahmed

Hafiz Maqsood Ahmed is the Editor-in-Chief of The Halal Times, with over 30 years of experience in journalism. Specializing in the Islamic economy, his insightful analyses shape discourse in the global Halal economy.

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• Business Management

How Halal Tourism is Reshaping the Global Tourism Industry

May 29, 2018 •

3 min reading

Spending by Muslim travelers is expected to rise to US$220 billion by 2020, with the number of Muslim tourists growing to 156 million from 121 million in 2016. That’s according to the Global Muslim Travel Index (GTMI) 2017, which was produced by Mastercard and CrescentRating, a ‘halal-friendly’ travel consultancy.

‘Halal’ tourism is clearly a growing market segment, with Muslim tourists seeking destinations which meet their needs, in terms of diet, dress or rituals. Translated from Arabic, ‘halal’ means permissible in accordance with Islamic teaching. Alcohol, pork, nudity and gambling are off limits.

With a burgeoning middle class and increasing disposable income, many countries – whether Muslim or not – are looking to attract these travelers. Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Turkey are among the leading Muslim destinations. Singapore, Thailand and the United Kingdom are among the top non-Islamic or OIC (Organization of the Islamic Conference) destinations.

Despite being a predominantly Buddhist country, albeit with a sizeable Muslim population in the south, Thailand has proved to be a popular destination for Muslims, mainly from Indonesia looking for affordable vacations and Thai food. As for the UK, Muslim spending is expected to rise to US$4.1 billion by 2020 even though there has been a spike in Islamophobic assaults following recent terror attacks in London and Manchester.

Adapting to the needs of Muslim travelers

Given the potential of this sector, it’s important for the hospitality industry to adapt to changing halal requirements to meet the needs of Muslim tourists. According to CrescentRating, hotels and restaurants should offer halal food at the very least. A destination is then seen as increasingly attractive for Muslim travelers – as assessed in the GTMI ranking – based on the availability of prayer facilities, Muslim-friendly washrooms and Ramadan-related offerings. While many airports are now offering halal food and prayer rooms, some still lack wash or ablution facilities.

Shaping the future with technology

In addition to more traditional online travel agencies or OTAs such as booking.com or TripAdvisor, Muslim-friendly platforms are springing up. Take for instance Halalbooking.com , a London-based market place for halal tourist accommodation that is expecting to achieve revenues of at least one billion pounds by the end of 2021.

Peer-to-peer platforms are also emerging. Bookhalalhomes.com has become the world’s leading portal for halal accommodation rentals. It differentiates itself from Airbnb by guaranteeing halal-certified services such as halal food and designated prayer rooms.

Smartphone apps are also being developed. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched an app that helps Muslim travelers find halal products and services. It provides information about prayer times, food options and sightseeing tours. Another app, HalalTrip , offers information related to more than 65 destinations worldwide. It generates revenue by selling suitable tour packages, whether it’s experiencing Great White Sharks in South Africa, culture and history in Spain, or shopping in Dubai.

Compared to more established western OTAs though, halal tourism e-commerce is still in its infancy. As we’ve outlined, however, it’s a growing market that needs to be served. Technology will continue to shape the growth of the sector by allowing hoteliers, restaurateurs and others to demonstrate that they are sensitive to halal requirements.

How innovation affects demand

With spending by Muslim travelers on course to reach US$220 billion by 2020, and Islam the fastest-growing religion in the world, Muslim tourists are definitely some of the most important customers in the travel market.

Pull factors such as family-friendly and Muslim-friendly services are important, as is halal awareness. Where safety concerns and basic halal requirements are met, Muslim tourism will continue to grow.

As for technology, halal tech firms appear to have established a first-mover advantage. But it’s only a matter of time before major western OTAs enter and seek to dominate this promising market.

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Halal tourism: Promoting high-quality service

In considering developments in the tourism industry especially in the past 20 years, including the diversity of tourism services and special interest tourism, we find that tourists are looking for new destinations and using new services aligned with their religious beliefs and values. Halal tourism is one such example; and health, physical fitness and mental health are some of its central concerns—tangible effects enriching the soul and spirit as well as comfort of travelers.

Halal tourism is also worthy of attention because a substantial part of tourism markets and destinations is located in the Islamic world. Moreover, 11% of international tourists are Muslims, which has led non-Muslim countries to offer Halal tourism services in order to better position themselves to gain a share of the $200 billion market of Muslim tourists.

Technical standards relevant for Halal tourism recognized by the European Union, the African Union and more than 32 countries throughout the world cover a wide range of areas: accommodations: restaurants; transportation including air, ground, rail, and sea; travel services; cosmetics; foods and drink; lifestyle; marketing and advertising; banking and financing; art and culture; business; insurance; education; stores; hospitals and dentistry; medicine; clothing and textiles; hairdressers and beauty shops; slaughterhouses; recreation sites; handicrafts.

Each aspect of the tourism industry can license its accredited and/or tested products and services and so contribute to interaction among people from different countries as well as from different religious, social and cultural backgrounds.

The study of Halal tourism represents an exciting a new field for understanding and meeting modern human needs. 

About the author

Dr. Mohammad Sharif Malekzadeh is the founder of the International Institute for Research and Development of Special Interest Tourism, Iran.

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Journal of Islamic Marketing

ISSN : 1759-0833

Article publication date: 16 March 2023

Issue publication date: 4 January 2024

The current research work investigates the concept of halal tourism through research articles published during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the understanding of what halal tourism means, while traveling following the Islamic law. This study also contributes to the discussion on its definition and the shared understanding, as it is extremely important toward the sustainable development of this niche tourism section.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review of total 47 number of existing literature, extracted from two major databases, namely, Scopus and Web of Science, was conducted. For data collection, the time frame from January 2020 to January 2023 was chosen, which represents the pandemic times during which those articles were published.

Although being a growing segment, halal tourism is still at a nascent stage in business research. It is potentially an attractive and niche segment of tourism. Current research work highlights the major contents related to halal tourism, dominant theories used in literature, publishing authors, journals and research gaps for further research. In this line, future research directions are also proposed toward the end of this paper.

Originality/value

This study highlights the conceptual development and discusses the opportunities and implementation of halal tourism in post-pandemic world. Current research work presents interesting contextual data and presents insightful knowledge in a new context. This paper offers a systematic analysis and provides both an academic as well as the managerial implications.

Ekka, P.M. (2024), "Halal tourism beyond 2020: concepts, opportunities and future research directions", Journal of Islamic Marketing , Vol. 15 No. 1, pp. 42-58. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIMA-09-2022-0260

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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.

19 Excellent Maldives Adults-Only Resorts You Need to Know

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.

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Halal Tourism Market

An Analysis of the Halal Tourism Market by International and Domestic Tour Types from 2024 to 2034

Offering Muslim Tourists Feasible Halal Friendly Lodging and Food Options is Pushing Tourists towards Halal Tourism

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Halal Tourism Market Snapshot from 2024 to 2034

The halal tourism market had an estimated market share worth US$ 266.3 billion in 2023, and it is predicted to reach a global market valuation of US$ 417.6 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2024 to 2034.

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Demand Analysis of Halal Tourism

Companies can advance in the halal tourism market by using these tactics:

• Using digital platforms for easy booking, tailored recommendations, and virtual tours to improve halal travel experiences.
• Allocating cash and enacting policies to build halal-friendly infrastructure and boost tourism.
• Encouraging collaborative initiatives and events that promote mutual understanding and appreciation across various populations.
• Finding and advertising new halal-friendly destinations to meet changing tourist needs and increase market share.

Halal Tourism Market Historical Analysis 2018 to 2023 vs. Forecast Outlook 2024 to 2034

The global demand for the halal tourism market was estimated to reach a valuation of US$ 229.4 billion in 2018, according to a report from Future Market Insights. From 2018 to 2023, the halal tourism market witnessed significant growth, registering a CAGR of 3.8%.

The use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology is a recent development in the halal tourism market. Muslim visitors may make decisions before making reservations by taking use of these immersive experiences, which include previews of locations, lodging options, and activities. The market for halal tourism is expected to grow in the future due to these factors:

• Muslim tourists are becoming more and more interested in halal-friendly activities.
• Offering options for luxurious halal travel experiences.
• Better digital platforms and transportation that make it simpler to access halal facilities.
• The desire for halal tourist experiences is being driven by a growing understanding and appreciation of varied cultural preferences.

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Key Factors Driving the Halal Tourism Market

Sustainable Growth is bolstered by the Rising Eco Conscious and Halal Friendly Tourists

One distinct driver of the halal tourism sector is the increased demand for sustainable and ethical travel experiences among environmentally conscious Muslim travelers. These people look for locations and offerings that complement their moral principles, such as eco-friendly activities and lodging with halal certification.

The convergence of ecotourism and halal creates a niche market that spurs innovation in sustainable hospitality and promotes vacation locations that balance environmental stewardship with Islamic values in order to meet the changing needs of Muslim tourists throughout the globe.

Factors that can impede the Market Growth

Growth in Halal Tourism is hampered by Global Uniformity, Cultural Sensitivity, and Competition

The halal tourism sector encounters challenges such as providing similar halal certification standards across the world, since differences in criteria and execution can cause misunderstanding among tourists and companies.

Certain holiday destinations may provide difficulties due to political unrest and cultural sensitivities, which might affect the availability of halal amenities and the quality of the entire trip. The potential of the business cannot be completely realized due to competition from non-halal tourist industries and the need for more knowledge and education regarding halal travel possibilities.

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Comparative View of Adjacent Markets

In this section, analysis will be drawn among three relevant markets. These are the halal tourism market, ecotourism market and medical tourism market.

Growing demand for ethical and sustainable travel experiences, rising disposable incomes among tourists, and technological advancements making information and reservation services more easily accessible are common drivers of these markets. Their overall growth and development is also aided by industry and government measures to support these industries.

Halal Tourism Market:

Ecotourism Market:

Medical Tourism Market:

Category wise Insights

This section focuses on providing detailed analysis of two particular market segments for halal tourism, the dominant tour type and the significant age group. The two main segments discussed below are the international tour and 36 to 45 age group people.

International Tours Commanding a Substantial Revenue Share

In 2024, the international tour segment is likely to gain a market share of 60%. Muslim tourists look for halal-certified accommodations and a variety of cultural activities, which are frequently easier to get overseas. Traveling abroad offers the chance to learn about and explore Islamic communities and historical locations all around the world.

Muslim travelers may have a wider variety of halal-friendly experiences and gain a deeper knowledge of other cultures by traveling to other countries and experiencing other foods, traditions, and lifestyles.

Halal Tourism is mostly preferred by People of Age Group 36 to 45 Years

In 2024, the 36 to 45 years old segment is anticipated to acquire 45% market share. There are several reasons why people in the 36 to 45 age range frequently choose halal tourism. Traveling with their family may be their first priority, and they may look for locations that have halal-certified lodging and family-friendly food alternatives.

This group of people may prioritize authenticity and cultural immersion, enjoying travel sites that honor and accommodate Islamic values. People in this age group could have more stable jobs and discretionary cash, which enables them to afford halal travel experiences.

Region wise Analysis

This section will go into detail on the halal tourism markets in a few key countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Japan and France. This part will focus on the key factors that are driving up demand in these countries for halal tourism.

Inclusion of Halal Options into Mainstream American Cuisine in the United States to Accelerate Demand

The United States halal tourism ecosystem is anticipated to gain a CAGR of 4.4% through 2034. Factors that are bolstering the growth are:

• The inclusion of halal choices into mainstream American cuisine in the United States offers Muslim tourists a variety of gastronomic experiences.
• Travelers with halal demands are catered to by specialized travel services, which makes travel easier.

Luxurious Halal Experiences to Accelerate Demand in the United Kingdom

The halal tourism market in the United Kingdom is expected to expand with a 4.1% CAGR through 2034. The factors pushing the growth are:

• The fusion of ancient Islamic heritage sites with contemporary facilities in places like Morocco and Turkey, which provide Muslim tourists with a combination of modern comfort and cultural authenticity, is a major driving force.
• The rise of luxurious halal tourism experiences is indicative of the increasing need for high-end services catered to the tastes of affluent Muslim travelers.

Rich Islamic Legacy of China to Widen Growth of Halal Tourism

The halal tourism ecosystem in China is anticipated to develop with a 5.5% CAGR from 2024 to 2034. The drivers behind this growth are:

• The country's rich Islamic legacy is a driving force behind halal tourism business, with ancient landmarks like the Great Mosque of Xi'an drawing Muslim travelers looking for cultural experiences.
• With improvements in infrastructure and hospitality making the nation more appealing to Muslim tourists, China's rise to prominence as a global economic powerhouse presents prospects for the growth of halal tourism.

Blend of Tradition and Innovation in Japan to encourage Tourist Patronage

The halal tourism industry in Japan is anticipated to reach a 5.3% CAGR from 2024 to 2034. The drivers propelling growth forward are:

• Muslim tourists may enjoy an exciting combination of experiences in Japan owing to its unique blend of traditional culture and modern comforts, from touring old temples to taking in innovative attractions.
• Japan's dedication to innovation is evident in its halal tourism initiatives, which include digital platforms tailored to the unique requirements of Muslim tourists and robot-assisted hotel services.

Gourmet Halal Food Options to Enhance Market Growth in France

The halal tourism ecosystem in France is likely to evolve with a 3.9% CAGR during the forecast period. The factors bolstering the growth are:

• France's halal tourism industry is driven in part by its recognized reputation for haute cuisine.
• The country's halal tourism industry has grown as a result of the exceptional gastronomy that has sparked the emergence of premium halal dining establishments.
• This caters to Muslim tourists looking for fine-dining establishments.

Market Competition

Leading companies in the global halal tourism market are meeting the increasing need for travel experiences that are accommodating to Muslims. They provide prayer facilities, halal-certified lodging, halal dining alternatives, and services that are sensitive to cultural differences. These businesses provide cultural authenticity and inclusion first priority while offering specialized services that follow Islamic law.

To improve accessibility and convenience, they also use digital platforms and marketing techniques to connect with Muslim tourists throughout the globe. They hope to get a sizable portion of this expanding market while advancing diversity and cross-cultural engagement in the travel and tourism sector through innovation and smart alliances. The key players in this market include:

• Halaltours.org
• Carisa Travel Group
• Rooh Travel Limited
• HalalBooking Ltd.
• Halal Safaris
• Halal Trip India
• Hello Travel
• Islamic Travel
• Tripfez Travel

Significant advancements in the halal tourism market are being made by key market participants, and their offerings include:

• Carisa Travel provides transfer services that enable you to travel around Scandinavia as you like. They provide the newest models of all vehicle types, sedan cars, minivans, and buses, with trained drivers to guarantee the comfort of the passengers.
• Their buses are furnished with free Wi-Fi and range in number from 16 to 66 seats. They provide well planned itineraries that guarantee halal-friendly lodging, places to worship, and delectable halal food, enabling customers to travel comfortably while keeping their Islamic principles.

Key Coverage in Halal Tourism Market Report

• Halal Tourism Market By Share, Size and Growth 2030
• Halal Tourism Market Rising Trends and Research Outlook
• Halal Tourism Turkey
• Halal Tourism Websites
• Trend, Opportunities, Challenges and Impact of Halal Tourism

Report Scope

Key segments profiled in the halal tourism market, by tour type:.

• International

By Consumer Orientation:

By tourist type:.

• Independent Traveler
• Package Traveler

By Age Group:

• 26 to 35 Years
• 36 to 45 Years
• 46 to 55 Years
• North America
• Latin America
• Western Europe
• Eastern Europe
• South Asia and Pacific
• The Middle East & Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the anticipated growth rate of the halal tourism market from 2024 to 2034.

The halal tourism market is expected to garner a 4.2% CAGR from 2024 to 2034.

What will be the global market outlook for halal tourism through 2024?

By 2024, the global halal tourism market is likely to gain US$ 276.7 billion.

What is the expected global market valuation for halal tourism by 2034?

By 2034, the halal tourism market valuation is likely to reach a sum of US$ 417.6 billion.

How will the demand for halal tourism develop in the United States?

The halal tourism industry in the United States is likely to garner a 4.4% CAGR during the forecast period.

Which tour type is anticipated to be highly preferred for halal tourism?

International tours are anticipated to be highly preferred and hence gain a 60% market share in 2024.

Which age group will be more attracted towards halal tourism?

Tourists aged 36 to 45 years are more attracted to halal tourism, constituting 45% of the total clientele in 2024.

Table of Content

List of tables, list of charts.

Recommendations

Travel and Tourism

Medical Tourism Market

Published : November 2023

Food and Beverage

Halal Food Market

Published : September 2023

Ecotourism Market

Published : April 2023

Tourism Market

Published : November 2022

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A Muslim-friendly guide to Moscow, Russia

In Travel Guide by Dina Dzhunskalieva May 2, 2020

A Muslim-friendly guide to Moscow

Moscow, the capital of Russia and home to an estimated 12 million people, may not be the obvious Muslim-friendly destination. However, the Muslim community in Russia grows year by year – various estimates place the current Muslim population in Russia at between 14 million and 20 million people. With this growth in the local Muslim population, the Russian capital is becoming increasingly Muslim-friendly. The proof? A rising number of Muslim-friendly cafes and restaurants, prayer facilities and festive Muslim events. 

Of course, no visit to Moscow is complete without a visit to the Kremlin, Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. But how Muslim-friendly is Russia’s capital?

Here’s your Muslim-friendly guide to visiting this incredible city by local moskvichka , Dina Dzhunskalieva. 

Muslim-friendly experiences in Moscow

1. pray in one of the biggest mosques in europe.

The streets surrounding Moscow Cathedral Mosque fill with worshippers during Eid, despite the mosque’s 10 000 person capacity. Photo: AFP

The origins of Moscow Cathedral Mosque can be traced to 1904, but it was demolished and completely reconstructed in 2015. During the period of the Soviet Union, Moscow Cathedral Mosque was the only one in the city that remained open for Muslims to worship in. In September 2015 President Putin himself presided over the mosque’s inauguration ceremony, together with President Erdogan (Turkey) and President Mahmoud Abbas (Palestinian Authority). The impressive architecture features 72m-high minarets and a central dome decorated with no less than 12 kg of gold leaf, which looks especially beautiful on a sunny day, shining in all of its glory.  The new mosque can hold an estimated 10 000 worshippers, which is much needed in Moscow. During major celebrations such as Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha, it’s estimated that 100 000 Muslims gather outside the central mosque alone, filling the streets with worshippers offerring their Eid prayers.

Top Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to visit the small museum at the mosque, which has a number of historical artefacts from the Muslim world!

2. Try delicious authentic cuisine from Central Asia and the Caucasus at halal eateries

Moscow is a hub for ethnicities from all over Russia and post-Soviet republics. Every ethnicity has its national cuisine and with seven of Russia’s 22 republics being Muslim-majority populations, there is a sumptuous variety of halal local food on offer.

There are more and more halal cafes and restaurants opening in Moscow, and here are my personal top 3 recommendations that any foodie should not miss: 

• “Chaihona Aiva”

An Uzbek restaurant with a great range of the main Central Asian dishes: plov, manty, samsa and more. Reasonable prices make this place even more attractive for tourists, as for locals. 

Beautiful interiors compliment the hearty Uzbek cuisine at Chaihona Aiva. Photo: Chaihona Aiva/TripAdvisor

Great spot if you want to try Caucasus cuisine without going to the Caucasus region itself. Home style chudu (crispy puff pastry with various fillings), Dagestani hinkal (dough-like dish served with garlic sauce and meat) and many more to enjoy. 

Crispy chudu parcels from Zhi Est. Photo: Zhi Est/TripAdvisor

Chinese cuisine, mainly represented by lamian – Lanzhou-style noodles. Tastes very close to Turkic laghman and very cheap, although the portions are huge. Also try the steamed bun and selection of various teas. 

Lanzhou-style noodles and lagman. Photo: Lanzhou/TripAdvisor

2. Experience Ramadan in a tent

Ramadan tents have been a feature of Ramadan in Moscow since at least 2003. Photo: Caucasian Knot

The Ramadan tent in Moscow offers iftar dinners and festive Ramadan activities for locals and Muslims who live in the city. On average, it hosts more than 500 guests every night. The budget organization of Iftars and entertainment programme come from Muslims themselves, first of all from the republics and communities which hold thematic evenings during Ramadan.

3. Listen to the most beautiful Quran recitation

The Moscow international Quran competition has taken place annually since 2000. Photo: VoiceofglobalUmmah.blogspot

Every year in Moscow, competitors from around the world gather to take part in an annual international Qur’an recitation competition. This year is the 20th Moscow Quran Reciting Competition, which was scheduled for 19th of April but has been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This competition sees representatives from a number of Muslim states including Iran, Turkey, Malaysia and Qatar as well as the Muslim-majority republics of Tatarstan, Dagestan and other regions.

Day 2 - Moscow

10.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide at the hotel lobby. Moscow city tour City tour including all major sights of Russian capital such as Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, Bolshoi Theater, Kremlin Embankment, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Sparrow Hills and Moscow State University, Tverskaya Street, New Maiden Convent, the Diplomatic Village, Victory Park with the view on the Moscow International Business Center «Moscow City», the Triumphal Arch, Kutuzovsky Prospect, Arbat street and many other interesting places which are really worth to seeing. 13.00 – Excursion to Moscow Kremlin (territory + Cathedral) You have a guided tour of this historical fortress, where you visit the famous Square of Four Cathedrals and go inside one of its gorgeous cathedrals decorated with magnificent frescoes. 14.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 17.00 – Back to the hotel. Free time. 19.00 – Dinner at the hotel (Halal food). Services: guide from 10.00 to 17.00, transport from 10:00 to 17.00, Kremlin tickets, water 0,5 l PP, lunch, dinner.

Day 3 – Moscow / Saint-Petersburg

09.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide at the hotel lobby. 10.00 – Visit of Cosmonautics museum 12.30 – Walking tour of VDNH park 14.00 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 15.30 – Transfer to the railway station. 17.30 – Departure to Saint Petersburg. 21.00 – Arrival to Saint Petersburg. Meeting with English speaking guide. Transfer to hotel. Accommodation at the hotel (extra). Services: Moscow – guide from 10.00 to 17.30, transport from 10.00 to 17.00, museum tickets, water 0,5 l PP, lunch, r/w ticket (2d class), St.Petersburg – guide for meeting, transfer from r/w station to hotel.

Day 4 – Saint-Petersburg

10.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide. Saint Petersburg city tour with visiting of Peter and Paul Fortress

Visiting of Cathedral Mosque of St. Petersburg 14.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Free time in the city centre. Back to the hotel by metro. Dinner at the hotel (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Services: guide from 10.00 to 18.00, transport from 10.00 to 14.30, metro ticket water 0,5 l PP, lunch

Day 5 – Saint-Petersburg

09.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide. Excursion to Peterhof 13.00 – Lunch at the local (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 15.00-17.00 – St.Petersburg rivers and canals boat trip 17.00 – Back to the hotel. 19.00 – Dinner at the hotel (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Services: guide from 09:00 to 18:00, transport from 09:00 to 18:00, entrance to park, boat ticket, water 0,5 l PP, lunch.

Day 6 – Saint-Petersburg / Moscow

Transfer from hotel to r/w station 09:00 – Train departure From St.Petersburg. 12.58 – Arrival to Moscow. 13.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 14.30 – Transfer to the airport. Services: St.Petersburg – English guide, transport for transfer from hotel to a/p, r/w ticket (2d class) Moscow – English guide from 13.00 to 16.30, transport from 13.00 to 16.30, water 0,5 l PP, lunch.

Excursions are already included in this tour. You can make any changes: add, reduce, change the order, request any others that may be more interesting to you.

For this tour you can order a guide who speaks another language.

We provide professional guides who speak Chinese, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Greek, Chinese, Arabic (Farsi/Persian), Japanese, Turkish, Slovenian, Polish, Thai, Mandarin, Korean, Hungarian, Serbian, others.

All our guides are licensed and have extensive experience and will be your main assistant in communication.

Below there are basic model classes that we provide, including passenger cars no older than 6 years and some buses models with WI-FI, 2018-2019.

Standard cars (Skoda Octavia, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Jetta , Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hunda Elantra)

Comfort cars (Toyota Camry, Ford Mondeo, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Teana, Hyundai i40, Opel Insignia).

Business cars (Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5, Audi A6).

Executive cars (Mercedes-Benz S-class, BMW 7, Audi A8).

Minivans (Mercedes-Benz Viano, Hundai Starex, Mercedes Vito).

Minibuses (Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit).

Buses (Iveco, Neoplan, Setra, Higer, Young, others).

The price of this tour may vary depending on the date of your arrival, as well as on the exchange rate of the local currency rubles against the US dollar and Euro.

For this tour you need to arrange entrance visa to Russia in advance. We are a licensed tour operator provide you with a letter of visa support. It will allow you to apply to the Consulate of Russia in your country and obtain an entry visa to Russia.

A number of countries of the world have the right to visa-free entry into Russia.

For this tour you can order additionally any services. Book a table in advance at the popular restaurant.

We will offer a selection of quality restaurants with different cuisines: Russian, European, Asian, Chinese, Mexican, Arabic, Halal, Indian, Gourme, others.

Order ticket for an evening performance for ballet, opera, folklore show, variety show, symphonic music concert

Any concierge service available upon your request.

• The tour is possible in any day
• Days of excursions may vary
• If change the exchange rate of the local currency (rubles) prices may be recalculate

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U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

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Moscow courts UAE to bump up inbound tourism

• Moscow targetting UAE tourism
• International visitors 10% of total
• Gulf tourists spend more

Moscow aims to double the number of annual visitors from the UAE this year, to expand its international tourist base amid headwinds such as the war with Ukraine. 

Bulat Nurmukhanov, head of the International Cooperation Division at Moscow City Tourism Committee (MCTC), told AGBI that while the Russian capital’s domestic tourism has broadly recovered since the pandemic, international tourism has yet to do so. 

Moscow received 24.3 million visitors in 2023, he said, of which 2.3 million were international and the rest were from elsewhere in Russia. In 2019, Moscow recorded 25 million visitors, of which four million were from overseas.  

• In Dubai, it looks like the Russians are staying
• Moscow still a key destination for Middle East tourists
• UAE-Russia trade grows as Putin arrives in Gulf

“Despite the challenges Moscow faces today, it has almost recovered its pre-Covid visitor flow of 2019 – our best year for the industry, helped by the effect of hosting the Fifa World Cup in 2018,” Nurmukhanov said.  

“But most of these are domestic tourists. We hope that by working with new markets such as the UAE, we can restructure the international tourism base and attract more visitors from the Emirates and wider GCC.”

Moscow has yet to calculate the number of visitors from the UAE last year, but it is a small proportion of the overseas total, according to Nurmukhanov. However, it is an important source market because of its higher-than-average spend per visit. 

“They’re helping load Moscow’s five-star hotels”, he said. These are not as popular among domestic tourists and other nationalities as three and four-star hotels. 

Last summer, MCTC revealed that tourists from the Middle East accounted for more than 30 percent of Moscow’s total tourist flow from outside the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2022. 

“Middle Eastern countries are among the most promising markets for inbound tourism,” the committee noted. 

In the UAE, the number of Russian tourists and investors leapt in the year after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, as Russian businesses sought a safe haven free of sanctions imposed on them by the West. 

Bilateral trade between the two countries has also risen sharply , by 63 percent between January and September 2023 to $9 billion, according to Russia’s government. 

Nurmukhanov said: “We’re already receiving a decent amount of tourists from the UAE and want to make sure that now, we adapt our infrastructure and design new hospitality products, entertainment and offerings that will be in their interest.” 

The strategy includes enhancing relationships between Moscow and UAE hotels, travel agents and tour operators; improving restaurants’ halal offerings; translating menus and other literature to Arabic, and promoting popular activities such as bear hunting, helicopter trips and horse riding.  

Some Moscow hotels even help GCC tourists to purchase warm clothing for their trip, Nurmukhanov said. Gulf visitors can obtain visas on arrival in Russia, and in November a rapid e-visa service was extended to other countries.  

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Watch CBS News

American tourist facing possible 12-year prison sentence after ammo found in luggage in Turks and Caicos

By Kris Van Cleave

Updated on: April 25, 2024 / 7:28 PM EDT / CBS News

Valerie Watson returned to Oklahoma City's Will Rogers World Airport in tears on Tuesday morning in a drastic departure from how she imagined her long weekend trip to Turks and Caicos would end.

Watson is home, but her husband, Ryan Watson, was jailed on the island and is facing a potential mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years behind bars after airport security allegedly found four rounds of hunting ammo in his carry-on bag earlier this month. 

"We were trying to pack board shorts and flip flops," Valerie Watson told CBS News. "Packing ammunition was not at all our intent."

Valerie Watson, who learned Sunday she would not be charged and would be allowed to return home, said the trip "went from what was supposed to be a dream vacation to a nightmare."

Ryan Watson was released on bail after two nights , but must remain on the island and check in with police twice a week.

The Watsons are not the only ones going through this ordeal.

Bryan Hagerich is awaiting trial after ammo was found in the Pennsylvania man's checked bag in February.

"I subsequently spent eight nights in their local jail. Some of the darkest, hardest times of my life, quite frankly," Hagerich said. "These last 70 days have been kind of a roller coaster, just the pain and suffering of having your family at home and I'm here."

Possessing a gun or ammunition is prohibited in Turks and Caicos, but tourists were previously often able to just pay a fine. In February, however, a court order mandated that even tourists in the process of leaving the country are subject to prison time.

Since November 2022, eight firearms and ammunition prosecutions in total have been brought involving tourists from the United States, three of which are currently before the court with each of the defendants on bail.

Last year, a judge found Michael Grim from Indiana had "exceptional circumstances" when he pleaded guilty to accidentally having ammunition in his checked bag. He served almost six months in prison. 

"No clean running water. You're kind of exposed to the environment 24/7," he told CBS News. "Mosquitoes and tropical illnesses are a real concern. There's some hostile actors in the prison."

The judge was hoping to send a message to other Americans. 

"[His] sentencing was completely predicated on the fact that I was an American," Grim said. 

The U.S. embassy last September posted a travel alert online, warning people to "check your luggage for stray ammunition," noting it would "not be able to secure your release from custody."

In a statement, a State Department spokesperson told CBS News, "We are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos.  When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States." 

Last year, TSA found a record 6,737 guns at airport security checkpoints, and most of them were loaded.  

"I can't even begin to think that this very innocent, regrettable mistake would prevent me from being able to watch my son graduate or teach him to shave or take my daughter to dances," Ryan Watson said. "It's just unfathomable. I do not — I can't process it."

The Turks and Caicos government responded to CBS News in a lengthy statement confirming the law and reiterating that, even if extenuating circumstances are found to be present, the judge is required to mandate prison time.   

Kris Van Cleave is CBS News' senior transportation and national correspondent based in Phoenix.

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Alaska Airlines was named America's favorite airline for the 2nd year in a row — months after a hole blew in the side of one of its planes

• A major consumer survey found that Alaska Airlines is the most popular airline in the US for the second year running.
• The airline topped the American Customer Satisfaction Index, despite its infamous panel blowout in January.
• Overall, US air travel customers were happier than last year with their experiences.

Alaska Airlines is the most popular airline in the US for the second year running, according to a major consumer survey.

The airline comfortably topped the annual American Customer Satisfaction Index with a score of 82, a one-point improvement compared to 2023.

American Airlines was second with 79 points, while low-cost carrier Allegiant Air beat better-known legacy names like United and Delta to take third place. Allegiant registered a four-point rise in overall customer satisfaction, making it one of the fastest climbers this year.

United Airlines was the only carrier to lose ground, sliding three points to a score of 75.

The index, which has been running since 1994, tracks customer satisfaction across five travel industries — airlines, car rentals, lodging, online travel agencies, and ridesharing platforms.

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To determine the rankings, 16,352 customers were asked to rate their experiences with companies based on nineteen different factors, such as ease of making a reservation, check-in process, cleanliness of cabin and lavatory, courtesy and helpfulness of flight crew, and timeliness of arrival. By collating this information, the American Customer Satisfaction Index says it provides a "definitive measure of passenger satisfaction."

Alaska Airline's top ranking comes despite the airline's nightmare safety incident in January 2024, during which a decommissioned door plug flew off during one of its flights at an altitude of 16,000 feet.

The plane, a Boeing 737 Max 9 made a safe landing back at Portland International Airport 35 minutes after takeoff, with all 177 people on board surviving.

14 passengers on the flight have since filed a class-action lawsuit against Boeing and Alaska Airlines, asking for monetary damages to cover injuries sustained during the incident and claims that some oxygen masks malfunctioned.

US airlines are getting better

Overall, the data found that customers were increasingly happy with airline travel, with ratings for all nineteen areas of customer satisfaction across airlines either improving or staying level with responses from 2023.

The polled customers were particularly happy with app services, the ease of making reservations, and airlines' websites, pointing to the importance of developing customer-friendly technology offerings.

As they become happier with travel experiences, customers are also travelling more. This February, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported a 21.5% rise in global air passengers compared to the previous year.

Watch: Why Hooters Air, Pan Am, and the Concorde all disappeared from the skies

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