Brian Jeffrey
Understanding the immense opportunity presented by Muslim travelers from the Middle East, Hanoi is taking significant steps to effectively engage this distinctive market.
Halal tourism, or tourism catering to Muslim needs, is specifically tailored for Muslim travelers. This demographic has unique lifestyles, customs, and dietary restrictions that stem from cultural and religious practices. Muslims typically avoid certain meats, including pork and carnivorous animals, as well as alcohol and specific amphibians.
In recent years, with a rise in cultural interactions, the number of Muslim visitors to Vietnam, particularly to Hanoi, has been steadily increasing. Notable visitors include a group of 200 Iranian tourists who recently chartered a complete flight to the capital, showcasing the significant potential of the Halal tourism sector.
As highlighted by Trinh Thi Thu Ha, Rector of the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism, Halal tourism is becoming a notable global phenomenon. With a Muslim population exceeding 1.9 billion, this sector is expected to generate nearly 350 billion USD for the travel industry by 2030 – a market rich with potential that must be actively pursued.
Halal involves more than just offering meals devoid of pork or alcohol; it extends to accommodations, prayer facilities, hospitality practices, and an overall respect for religious beliefs. However, Hanoi currently has a limited number of restaurants and hotels that comply with Halal guidelines, presenting obstacles for the tourism sector in accommodating this demographic. In Southeast Asia, countries such as Thailand and Singapore have successfully built a Halal tourism framework with appropriate eateries, hotels, shopping locations, and entertainment options despite lacking large Muslim populations.
Hanoi is well-positioned to become a central hub for Halal tourism, which could significantly boost its tourism industry. Creating a supportive ecosystem for Halal visitors is a vital step forward. According to Dang Huong Giang, Director of the Hanoi Department of Tourism, engaging with the Halal market is not merely a response to a global trend; it is also a sustainable growth strategy aimed at expanding Hanoi’s presence within the Muslim community.
To support this market, Ramlan Bin Osman, Director of the National Halal Certification Centre (HALCERT), recommended that hotels and restaurants create specific Halal dining sections and entertainment spaces that accommodate men and women separately. Tourist attractions should also adhere to Muslim-friendly standards. Recognizing that Muslims have specified times for daily prayers, it is essential for airports and hotels to incorporate dedicated prayer facilities.
Giang underlined the Department of Tourism’s commitment to enhancing awareness among tourism operators regarding Muslim traveler needs. The department will collaborate with airports and accommodation providers to develop Halal-friendly spaces and appropriate dining options. Hanoi aims to work closely with embassies and international organizations to foster cultural exchanges with Muslim nations and train personnel equipped to serve this market. The ambition is to establish a holistic Halal tourism infrastructure by 2030, prioritizing the development of Muslim-friendly zones in the city’s core.
Various travel agencies are also ramping up their efforts to attract Halal tourists. Truong Quoc Hung, Chairman of the Hanoi UNESCO Travel Club, noted that the club has partnered with the Halal Training Centre to enhance understanding and provide training for individuals working with this market. They are also focused on creating a comprehensive range of Halal-standard tourism services, encompassing ground operations, dining, lodging, sightseeing, marketing, and communications.
