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Islamic Lifestyle
Dubai's Emirates becomes world’s most profitable airline

Dubai-based airline Emirates has recorded the biggest profit in its 40-year history to become the world’s most profitable carrier. 

Its profit before tax for the year ending March 31, 2025, rose 20% to reach $ 5.8 billion (21.2 billion Emirati dirhams). 

Revenues surged 6% over the previous year to $34.9 billion (127.9 billion), while cash assets grew 16% year-on-year to reach its highest ever figure of $13.5 billion. 

The airline carried 53.7 million passengers in 2024-25, with its seat capacity up by 4%, as it served 148 cities in 80 countries and territories as of March 31.

Its partnerships grew to 33 codeshare and 118 interline agreements, connecting to 1,750 cities beyond its network.  

Emirates Group, the state-owned aviation conglomerate which includes Emirates airline and airport services provider dnata, achieved its highest ever profit in 2024-25, becoming the most profitable aviation group globally.

Its net profit for the year ending March 31, 2025, rose 18% year-on year to reach $6.2 billion. Profit after tax, including the 9% corporate tax enacted in 2023, reached $5.6 billion.

Revenues surged 6% over last year to $39.6 billion, while cash assets were up 13% to reach $14.6 billion (53.4 billion Emirati dirhams). 

dnata recorded profit before tax of $430 million for the financial year 2024-25, with revenues reaching $5.8 billion. 

“Dubai’s aviation sector has become an influential force on the global stage,” said Emirates Group chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. 

“We don’t cut corners, and we don’t take shortcuts that put our future at risk for short term gains. By building our business models around these principles and Dubai’s unique strengths, the Emirates Group has thrived and stayed resilient through geo-political and socio-economic challenges over the years.”

The group invested $3.8 billion in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, companies, and technologies to support its growth plans. Its workforce grew 9% to employ 121,223 individuals. 

Emirates’ order book had 314 aircraft pending delivery as of March 31, including 61 A350s, 205 Boeing 777x, 35 787s, and 13 777Fs. The first Airbus A350 aircraft joined the fleet this year, increasing to four by end of the first quarter. Total fleet at the end of March stood at 260 units. 

“We enter the year ahead with excitement and optimism. While some markets are jittery about trade and travel restrictions, volatility is not new in our industry. We simply adapt and navigate around these challenges,” said Sheikh Ahmed. 

“Emirates will strengthen our network connectivity with the expected delivery of 16 A350s and 4 Boeing 777 freighters in 2025-26.”
 

Islamic Lifestyle
Russia eyes Muslim travelers as global tourism map shifts

As Western sanctions tighten and geopolitical rifts deepen, Russia has found itself recalibrating its economic alliances and trade flows. Tourism, long a symbolic and economic bridge, has not been spared.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Airlines Reporting Corporation data, international arrivals at U.S. airports and summer flight bookings from Europe have dropped by -1.5% and -2%, respectively, compared to last year. That decline allows other nations to position themselves as alternative destinations.

One of the most ambitious among them is Russia, which is actively cultivating new markets. At the forefront of this pivot is the Muslim travel segment. From expanding halal-certified accommodations to reframing its cultural heritage through an Islamic lens, Russia is positioning itself as a compelling destination for travelers from the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim-majority countries in Asia. Early numbers and new policy frameworks suggest this isn't a short-term play but part of a strategic long-term realignment.

Gulf arrivals surge as Russia replaces Western markets

According to a March 2025 report by Skift, the United States saw a 10.3% drop in arrivals from 20 major international source markets. Russia, however, is witnessing the opposite. In 2023, arrivals from Saudi Arabia surged elevenfold, Kuwait sixfold, and Qatar and the UAE fourfold. According to Russia's Federal State Statistics Service, visitor numbers from Iran rose by one-third.

These aren't isolated spikes—they signal structural changes. Russia and Oman recently finalized a visa-free travel agreement, with direct flights between Muscat and Moscow now operational. The UAE already benefits from a 90-day visa exemption, and similar arrangements are in progress with Jordan and Bahrain. By early 2025, at least 150 weekly flights connected Moscow with key Gulf hubs: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Russia rolls out halal standards to welcome Muslim tourists

Accommodating this influx requires more than open skies. In 2023, the Russian government introduced a national halal certification standard, "Halal Products and Services," designed to align the country's hospitality, food, and wellness sectors with international Islamic norms.

The groundwork was laid even earlier. Moscow's Aerostar Hotel, for instance, began adapting to Muslim guests well before the federal standard. "Around 70% of our guests are from overseas, and 13% of those come from Muslim countries, especially Iran," said Lyubov Shiyan, the hotel's marketing director.

The hotel introduced 20 halal-friendly rooms featuring prayer mats, qibla direction indicators, Qurans, and halal-certified amenities in response. Separate kitchens prepare meals under strict halal protocols, while staff provide discreet, culturally aware service.

The trend is gaining traction in other regions. After a six-month audit, the Erbelia Hotel at Rosa Khutor earned Muslim-Friendly certification in Sochi. Their approach includes halal menus and prayer rooms, modest staff uniforms, appropriate room decor, and training in Islamic hospitality principles.

Still, the supply of certified hotels is small: two in Tatarstan, one in Sochi, and several others in the application pipeline. Yet state-backed incentives and increasing demand suggest rapid expansion is on the horizon.

Tatarstan emerges as a spiritual and cultural anchor

While Moscow and Sochi respond with hospitality upgrades, the Republic of Tatarstan anchors Russia's cultural and faith-based tourism push. A region with deep Islamic roots, Tatarstan has seen a 15% annual increase in visitors from OIC nations, according to the Federal State Statistics Service.

Sites like the ancient city of Bolgar—where Islam was adopted by the Volga Bulgars in 922—and the White Mosque, a striking modern structure often likened to the Taj Mahal, draw Muslim tourists from across the globe. The "Izge Bolgar Zhyeni" pilgrimage, held every May, brings thousands of domestic and international visitors.

These cultural offerings are increasingly paired with high-level engagement. In 2023, the Russia-Islamic World: KazanForum hosted leaders from 57 OIC nations. The event featured guided religious site visits and an exhibit showcasing ten authenticated relics of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), adding diplomatic and spiritual gravitas.

Tatarstan expands halal health and wellness options

The region also leads a lesser-known but fast-emerging niche: halal medical tourism. Certified sanatoriums and wellness centers now offer treatments that respect Islamic dietary and ethical standards, aimed at attracting high-income travelers from the Gulf and broader OIC markets.

According to IRNA's reporting, this effort is part of a coordinated national strategy to integrate halal principles into healthcare and wellness tourism. This initiative blends faith with long-term economic planning.

Moscow launches Muslim-friendly travel guide and services

While Tatarstan offers spiritual depth, Moscow is embracing a more cosmopolitan, service-oriented pivot. In 2023, the Moscow City Tourism Committee launched a comprehensive Muslim-Friendly Guide in collaboration with RUSQuality and the Halal Standardization Center under the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation.

The guide includes halal restaurants, mosques, certified hotels, and shopping areas and is distributed in both print and digital formats. Centered around landmarks like the rebuilt Moscow Cathedral Mosque—one of the largest in Europe, with a capacity of 10,000 worshippers—Moscow is rebranding itself as a welcoming hub for halal-conscious travelers.
Festivals, Qur'an recitation contests, Ramadan tents, and Islamic exhibitions now feature prominently in the city's tourism calendar. In 2023 alone, more than 42,000 UAE visitors came to Moscow—an eightfold increase from the previous year and 95 times higher than in 2017. Officials expect continued growth into 2025.

Halal hospitality faces scaling challenges beyond big cities

Despite the momentum, hurdles remain. Certified hotels are still rare outside major urban centers, and training hospitality staff in halal best practices is an ongoing challenge. Dmitry Arutyunov, CEO of Art-Tour, points out that payment systems are another friction point—many visitors from the Gulf must rely on cash or anonymized prepaid cards due to banking restrictions.

Another issue is cost. According to Skift, the average Gulf tourist spends around $1,500 per visit, not including airfare. That makes the segment highly profitable—but also highly demanding, particularly when it comes to luxury service standards, customizations, and privacy.

Russia's tourism strategy enters a new era

Russia's outreach to the Muslim travel market is not just about recouping losses from the West. It reflects a broader recalibration of the country's diplomatic, economic, and cultural relationships. The growing presence of Gulf investors, medical tourists, and faith-based travelers signals where Moscow sees future alliances forming.

With a rising global Muslim middle class, greater travel mobility, and heightened expectations for culturally tailored experiences, nations that adapt early stand to gain the most.

Despite its late start, Russia is moving with purpose. From Tatarstan's minarets to Sochi's mountain trails, the infrastructure is emerging—and so is the narrative.

Islamic Lifestyle
Islamic lifestyle roundup: Transavia France to launch flights to Madinah

Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem during the month of April

 

Editor's Note: With the Hajj season upon us, Saudi Arabia is expected to dominate headlines - from additional inbound flights to electronic entry permits for expatriate workers, the kingdom is ensuring for a seamless pilgrim experience.  

 

Trade Developments


Saudi Arabia

Umrah and Ziyarah Forum in Madinah Concludes with agreements

The second edition of the Umrah and Ziyarah Forum, held from April 14 to 16, concluded with strong local and international participation.

 

During the forum, 4,251 collaboration agreements were signed, a 25% increase from the previous edition, highlighting its role in enhancing services for pilgrims.

 

The forum featured 150 exhibitors from 100 countries, representing various stakeholders, and included dialogue sessions and workshops addressing challenges and opportunities in the Umrah and visitor experience. (Saudi Press Agency)

 

Saudi Arabia

Electronic Makkah entry permits now available for expats

The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia has announced the commencement of electronic applications for entry permits to Makkah for expatriate workers ahead of the upcoming Haj season.

 

Expatriates can now apply through the Ministry of Interior's digital platforms, including Absher and the Muqeem portal, without the need to visit passport offices.

 

The service is integrated with the Tasreeh platform for issuing Haj permits, streamlining the process. (The Siasat Daily)

 

 

Company News


France / Saudi Arabia

Transavia France to launch Madinah flights

The Saudi Air Connectivity Program has partnered with the Al Madinah Region Development Authority to launch Transavia France's operations in Saudi Arabia.

 

Transavia, a French low-cost airline owned by Air France, will begin flights from Paris-Orly, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse to Madinah starting in October. (Zawya)

 

Regulatory


Nigeria

Sokoto reintroduces Hisbah Corps to promote Islamic culture

The Sokoto State government has re-established the Hisbah Corps to promote Islamic culture, moral discipline, and values in the state.

 

The Hisbah Corps is tasked with fostering a cleaner and safer society, tackling immorality and sinful acts, and promoting modesty.

 

The government has provided operational vehicles, motorcycles, and office accommodations for the Hisbah Corps, and will make monthly allocations to support their activities. (365 Daily)

Islamic Lifestyle
Saudi Arabia sets target of 2.5m Umrah travelers for 2025

Saudi Arabia's Air Connectivity Program plans to set aside more than 700,000 airline seats for Umrah pilgrims through the first quarter of 2025 and 2.5 million seats by the end of next year. According to Arab News, this announcement was made by Majid Khan, chief executive of the program, while speaking at the Umrah and Ziyarah Forum in Madinah.

Khan said the program plans to expand to Europe, the Gulf, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and Indonesia, with a Stuttgart–Jeddah service scheduled to start later this year. With Eurowings already flying from Berlin and Cologne to Jeddah, this would be the third direct Umrah flight from Germany.

Transavia plans to launch new Paris–Jeddah and Lyon–Jeddah routes with a daily London Gatwick–Madinah flight in August, adding roughly 180,000 seats.

Twelve airlines joined Saudi Arabia's Air Connectivity program earlier this year. Twenty new routes have brought a combined 1.5 million seats. Recent entrants include ITA, British Airways, Eurowings, Transavia, and Wizz Air.

The Umrah and Ziyarah Forum runs until 16 April at the King Salman International Convention Center. The event is organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Pilgrim Experience Program.

More than 150 exhibitors from over 100 countries are taking part. The forum offers 50 workshops and sessions on accommodation, artificial intelligence, social‑media outreach, and Madinah's heritage. An accompanying exhibition showcases government projects to upgrade infrastructure, transport, and hospitality in the holy cities.

Islamic Lifestyle
Halal tourism faces a growing opportunity

The interconnected nature of the world today points to the fact that we have moved from an era of distinct national economies to interlinked ecosystems. 


The recent U.S. tariff wars and tightened immigration measures have brought this concept into sharp focus. The downturn in American inbound tourism, caused by the tariffs have prompted travelers, especially from the rapidly expanding Muslim travel segment, to look elsewhere for destinations that better align with their cultural, economic, and faith-related needs.

For decades, inbound tourism to the United States seemed relatively shielded from geopolitical strain. Yet the decline triggered by policy-driven tensions, such as trade disputes and perceived exclusionary rhetoric, has been particularly steep, underscoring how swiftly global perceptions can alter travel flows.

U.S. tourism in turbulence: The impact of tariffs and tensions
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the United States welcomed 72.3 million international visitors in 2024, making it the world’s third-most-visited country that year. It also led in tourism revenue, earning approximately $194 billion. Canada and Mexico combined made up over half of all foreign arrivals (20.24 million from Canada and 16.98 million from Mexico), with the United Kingdom placing third at 4.03 million visitors (5.6% of total arrivals). Brazil, India, and China all posted healthy upticks last year, including a notable 24.3% increase from India and a 21.4% boost from China.

Those numbers, however, have begun to slip. A recent Skift report cites U.S. International Trade Administration data revealing a 10.3% decline in arrivals from 20 major source countries in March 2025 compared to last year. Western Europe saw a 17.2% slump overall, with Germany down 28.2% and the U.K. by 14.3%. Asia was off by 3.4%, while Eastern Europe increased by 1.5%.

Faltering numbers: What the numbers reveal
Mabrian, a global travel intelligence firm, analyzed millions of flight searches between January and March 2025 from ten primary outbound markets—the U.K., Germany, France, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, India, Japan, South Korea, and China. Their data reflected a 0.4% year-over-year drop in overall European interest in the U.S., with Germany and Italy slipping nearly one percentage point versus 2024.

Similarly, a Switzerland-based consortium, Serandipians, surveyed 250 member agencies outside the U.S. and found that 35% reported declining travel requests, while only 10% noted an uptick. Tourism Economics, a key forecasting firm, estimates a 9.4% drop in U.S. overseas arrivals for 2025—almost double its February projection of a 5% decline. The group also warns of a possible 20% fall in arrivals from Canada, a drop the U.S. Travel Association says could mean 2 million fewer visits, $2.1 billion in lost spending, and 14,000 job losses.

Halal tourism on the rise
While U.S. inbound tourism softens, destinations that cater to Muslim travelers have emerged as notable beneficiaries. An Al Jazeera report forecasts that halal tourism will reach $410.9 billion by 2032, up from $256.5 billion in 2023. Meanwhile, the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024 projects the Muslim population to climb from 2.12 billion in 2024 to 2.47 billion in 2034.

As younger, digitally savvy Muslim travelers seek destinations accommodating religious and cultural needs, these figures hint at a thriving market in need of responsive hosts.

Already, OIC nations such as Malaysia, Turkey, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates, have intensified efforts to position themselves as top picks for faith-aware tourists, offering everything from halal menus to family-friendly beaches. In Qatar, recent initiatives include medical tourism and large-scale sporting events tailored to Muslim guests. Meanwhile, lesser-known tourist destinations, like Oman and Saudi Arabia, are attracting interest with scenic landscapes and futuristic multi-billion-dollar tourism infrastructures, respectively. 


Beyond the OIC: Non-muslim destinations embrace inclusivity

Equally telling is the push by non-OIC countries, which see the financial upsides of appealing to Muslim travelers. For example, Thailand implemented a halal industry action plan in July last year to leverage the growing halal sector and revive its tourism-dependent economy post-pandemic. That same November, the Hong Kong Tourism Board announced an initiative to enhance Muslim-friendly tourism, encouraging restaurants, hotels, and attractions to review their offerings and pursue halal certification.

Taiwan has ranked highly with the Crescent Rating since 2019, while the Philippines, labeled an emerging Muslim-friendly destination, retained that distinction for a second straight year in 2024. Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco acknowledged the importance of halal tourism for the country's global competitiveness, emphasizing the need to accommodate Muslim travelers.

Elsewhere, Zanzibar hosted a Halal Tourism Exhibition last year, hoping to attract investors and support existing local enterprises that already adhere to halal practices. 

Japan also saw momentum grow ahead of the rescheduled 2020 Olympics, prompting Tokyo and Osaka to expand Muslim-friendly facilities. Over in South Africa, halal-friendly safari excursions, optimized for dining and prayer breaks, are being marketed to tap into the Muslim traveler market. Lastly, in Europe, Germany and the U.K. are leveraging sizable Muslim communities, ensuring reliable access to halal dining, prayer areas, and cultural events.


As the United States grapples with the aftereffects of its tariff conflicts and more restrictive immigration protocols, other destinations are pulling travelers in with a reputation for cultural sensitivity and hospitality. “Muslim leisure travelers share the same motivations as other tourists—they want to immerse themselves in local culture,” explained Crescent Rating CEO, Fazal Bahardeen in comments to Al Jazeera. “The difference lies in their desire to do so while meeting their fundamental faith-based requirements. This isn’t merely religious tourism.”

With these visitors’ numbers on the rise—and with non-OIC nations increasingly fine-tuning their halal certification standards—those able to adopt inclusive strategies will likely see short- and long-term gains. In the process, the global map of desirable travel hubs is evolving: once-loyal visitors to the U.S. are reassessing where they can spend their money in an environment they deem more inviting. As the Muslim travel segment broadens in size and spending power, it may become the linchpin in determining which destinations rise and fall in this newly competitive tourism landscape.
 

Islamic Lifestyle
Umrah and Ziyarah Forum returns under royal patronage

The Umrah and Ziyarah Forum (UZF) will return for its second edition from April 14 - 16, 2025 (16 - 18 Shawwal 1446H), at the King Salman International Convention Center in Madinah, Saudi Arabia.

Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of the Madinah Region, and presented by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, UZF 2025 will bring together over 150 exhibitors and 25,000 visitors from more than 70 countries.


The three-day gathering will spotlight technology, healthcare, airlines, mobility, and transport, alongside new themes aimed at elevating the Umrah experience. The forum will include a conference, an exhibition, and workshops, showcasing advancements in hospitality, sustainable practices, and innovative pilgrimage services that adhere to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. 


The 2025 edition marks the first time UZF is organized by Tahaluf, a joint venture between Informa, a UK-based business intelligence, and exhibitions group, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and the Events Investment Fund. 


Faariss Khalil, exhibition director at Tahaluf, said that UZF 2025 is more than a forum, rather it is a movement dedicated to elevating the Umrah and Ziyarah journey through collaboration, investment, and innovation. 


Attendees can expect focused conference sessions on advancing air travel, transforming pilgrimage services through technology, enhancing visitor care, and expanding tourism opportunities. A number of workshops will address topics such as building resilient operational systems, universal design for pilgrimage housing, and sustainable approaches to year-round tourism.

The event will feature speakers from the travel, technology, and development sectors, including executives from global tech firms, advisory groups, and travel platforms.


The exhibition will spotlight solutions across transport, accommodation, fintech, and healthcare, offering attendees a firsthand look at AI-powered travel tools, sustainable lodging concepts, and other innovations aimed at streamlining the Umrah journey for millions of pilgrims worldwide. 


Among the forum’s sponsors are the Saudi Tourism Authority, Rua Al Madinah Holding, Al Rajhi for Umrah, Tasheer, Knowledge Economic City, SAR, Taibah Investments (Makarem), Tawuniya Insurance, Movenpick, and Mansky. These sponsors plan to introduce innovative partnerships aimed at strengthening Umrah-related services and facilitating cross-border collaboration.


More than 122 million worshippers visited Makkah and Madinah during the month of Ramadan alone in 2025, underscoring the need for efficient services. UZF 2025 is expected to unveil new business and investment opportunities against the backdrop of an influx of visitors to Makkah and Madinah. 
 

Islamic Lifestyle
Brands embrace Ramadan with specialized product launches

Long recognized as a time of reflection, generosity, and communal gatherings, the holy month of Ramadan is also a period of festivities and giving. 

This year, many brands seized the opportunity to introduce first-time offerings that tap into the season's themes of faith, community, and giving back.

From modest fashion to commemorative gold bars, here's a round-up of some of the products launched during Ramadan. 

ANTAM's Damascus Mosque gold bars

Indonesian mining company PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTAM) introduced thematic 5-gram gold bars featuring the Damascus Mosque design. 

Maryam's Korner halal kitchen tea towel

Maryam's Korner introduced the 'Halal Kitchen' tea towel as part of their 2025 Ramadan/Eid collection, blending practicality with cultural significance.

Natural Delights Medjool date boxes

Natural Delights introduced 2-, 5-, and 11-pound boxes of premium Medjool dates during Ramadan.

Wardah’s ‘Menangkan Langkah Kebaikan’ (Win the steps of kindness) campaign

Indonesian halal beauty brand Wardah prioritized community-building and inspiration through its new campaign, which features short films and digital activations. Although not a physical product, the campaign embodied Ramadan's reflection and charitable spirit by encouraging kindness and self-improvement.

Noble Panacea's exceptional collection

Noble Panacea introduced a curated line to counter dryness and fatigue by launching items including the Exceptional Overnight Chronobiology Mask, a Vitamin C Booster, and an Eye Lift Concentrate formulated for a refreshed glow. 

Charlotte Tilbury's limited-edition makeup collection

Charlotte Tilbury launched its first Ramadan-themed collection, featuring the Magic Cream, Pillow Talk Matte Revolution lipstick, and the Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray, all reimagined with celestial moon-and-star motifs. 

Victoria's Secret Ramadan collection

Victoria's Secret unveiled a Ramadan collection for the first time, showcasing modest designs that blend the brand's signature elegance with culturally conscious details. The limited-edition pieces cater to those seeking style and propriety during the holy month.

Huda Beauty's habibti kits

Huda Beauty introduced habibti kits specifically for Ramadan outings and gatherings. The face-and-lip set includes the Blush Filter Liquid Blush, Faux Filler Gloss, and a Lip Contour 2.0 pencil. A smaller, travel-friendly lip set features a mini Bombshell lipstick and a matching gloss.

Simihaze's Ramadan makeup set

Simihaze launched a trio of beauty solutions that address dryness and fatigue, common during the fasting season. These include the Easy Lash Clean Lift Mascara, Hydra Melt Dewy Skin Balm, and the rose oil-infused Super Slick Lip Balm in a universal shade.

House of Noya’s Prima Collezione

To celebrate the month of Ramadan, the House of Noya debuted nine perfumes alongside four scented candles. Each scent reflects the spiritual rhythms of Ramadan days and nights, encouraging moments of quiet reflection and serenity.

Lush's Eid collection

Well-known for ethical and vegetarian products, Lush introduced an assortment of scented treats specifically for Ramadan. Highlights include Lailah soap, infused with blackcurrant, and the Basma body scrub with raspberry and grape juices. The Noor lip balm, made with sunflower wax and organic shea butter, rounds out the line. 

IKEA’s Gokvällå collection

IKEA introduced the Gokvällå range, which includes a gold two-tiered serving stand, lanterns, printed rugs, moon-shaped cushions, and trays—all inspired by the day-and-night cycle of suhoor-to-iftar gatherings.

Rituals Cosmetics

Rituals Cosmetics introduced the limited-edition Alchemy Collection to relax and rejuvenate. Infused with amber and myrrh, the line includes a winter foaming shower gel, indulgent body cream, fragrant candle, and stone diffuser oil. Two new additions—a black volcanic sand scrub and a 4-in-1 face mask treatment with 24-karat gold flecks—offer extra indulgence for the season.

Scentz by Mauzan

Scentz by Mauzan unveiled special box sets pairing perfumes with dukhoon for Ramadan 2025. Founded by Emirati entrepreneur Rafia Helal Bin Drai, the brand spotlights Middle Eastern ingredients like rich oud, sweet rose, and warm amber. 

 

Islamic Lifestyle
Ramadan adds up to £1.3 billion to UK's economy

Ramadan-related activities contribute between 800 million to 1.3 billion pounds to the UK economy, a new study has revealed. 

Activities include retail spending, charitable donations, supermarket sales, Eid shopping, volunteering, and more, enhancing economic growth and social cohesion, a report by UK-based think tank Equi suggested.

Approximately 2.6 million British Muslim adults observe fasts across the country, prompting a change in consumer spending, retail trends and charitable giving. 

Supermarkets and independent food retailers invest an estimated 159 million to 274 million pounds in the Ramadan value chain, while supermarkets alone generally approximately 228 million to 342 million pounds in Ramadan sales, increasing two-to-three-fold from a decade ago. 

“Ramadan plays a catalyst role in encouraging supermarkets to stock a wider variety of halal-certified products, from fresh meat and poultry to ready-made meals and snacks throughout the year. All of these changes require supply chains to adapt accordingly, necessitating significant investment by supermarkets in sourcing, logistics, and infrastructure,” the report read. 

British Muslims spend an estimated 200 million to 300 million pounds on clothes, gifts and travel during Ramadan and Eid, while mosques across Britain serve free iftar meals worth an estimated 15 million pounds during the holy month.  

On balance, British Muslims generate £70 billion a year for the UK economy, 30% of which are business contributions.

However, the study suggests that the Ramadan economy remains an underexplored area in policy discussion. 

“The rise of the Ramadan economy in the UK is an underappreciated phenomenon. With these increases in spending and changes in focus already prevalent, they present an unfulfilled opportunity to channel these shifts into strengthened local supply chains, boost small businesses, and encourage more sustainable consumer habits," the report added.  
 


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