Islamic lifestyle roundup: Aseer Investment Company to develop tourism destination
Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem during the month of November
Editor's Note: Saudi Arabia is firing on all cylinders to position itself as a economic powerhouse. But it is also leaving no stone unturned in reframing its tourism landscape. Leading the effort is its wealth fund PIF who is looking to launch tourism projects.
Saudi low-cost airline Flyadeal launched its first international flight from Madinah to Cairo.
Trade Developments
Indonesia
Leaders scrap plan for new halal tourism campaign in Bali
Indonesia’s deputy minister for Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, confirmed the cancellation of plans for a Halal tourism certification program in Bali following public backlash.
Future tourism initiatives will align with Balinese culture and heritage, emphasizing respect for local traditions. (The Bali Sun)
Egypt / Saudi Arabia
Flyadeal launches first international scheduled flights from Madinah
Flyadeal launched its first international flights from Madinah to Cairo, following new services between Jeddah and Sohag.
This expansion increases its weekly frequencies to Egypt from 39 to 44, using Airbus A320 aircraft. (Zawya)
Taiwan
Tourism body promotes Muslim-friendly tourism
Taiwan is promoting itself as a Muslim-friendly travel destination, targeting the growing and youthful Muslim travel market.
A familiarization trip, including a “Taiwan Muslim-Friendly Tourism B2B Networking Event,” was held on November 27 in Tamsui, showcasing Taiwan's commitment to attracting Muslim travelers. (The Malaysian Reserve)
Company News
Philippines
La Meza kicks off Megaworld Hotels’ Muslim-friendly initiatives
Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) held its annual La Meza De Kultura event, hosted this year by Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, drawing inspiration from Iloilo’s UNESCO 2023 Creative City of Gastronomy districts.
A focus session led by Archipelago Hotel Group introduced strategies to make MHR hotels more Muslim-friendly.
The aligns with initiatives from an MoU signed by MHR and the Department of Tourism at the Arabian Travel Mart in Dubai. (ABS CBN)
Saudi Arabia
Aseer Investment Company to develop world-class tourism destination
Aseer Investment Company, a PIF subsidiary, has partnered with Rikaz to establish a holding company for tourism projects in Aseer.
The initiative aims to transform the region into a world-class destination by blending heritage with sustainable development.
The company will enhance visitor experiences while preserving Aseer’s natural beauty and supporting local communities. (Zawya)
Regulatory
Pakistan
Ministry of Religious Affairs, PIA ink agreement to reduce Hajj airfare for pilgrims
The ministry of religious affairs has negotiated a deal with national airline PIA to reduce the Hajj airfare for Pakistani pilgrims.
It has been reduced to $800 from last year’s $850.
This initiative reflects the government’s efforts to make Hajj more affordable and accessible for low and middle-income citizens. (Daily Times)
Hong Kong
Hong Kong rolls out Muslim-friendly accreditation system for hotels, tourist attractions
Hong Kong has introduced a Muslim-friendly accreditation system for hotels and attractions, complementing its existing halal restaurant certifications.
The Tourism Board celebrated its first halal-certified Chinese fine-dining restaurant, marking a milestone in catering to Muslim travellers.
Deputy Executive Director Becky Ip emphasized the importance of expanding Muslim-friendly offerings to unlock the market's potential. (South China Morning Post)
Technology
Malaysia
Malaysian premier advocates integrating Islamic values in artificial intelligence
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized integrating religious knowledge with AI ethics, highlighting plans to complete book translations and reinstate aid for religious schools.
He announced increased scholarships for Malaysians in Islamic Studies, Medicine, and Engineering, supporting educational and technological progress. (IQNA)
