Islamic lifestyle wrap: Saudia unveils Umrah websites for US, Canadian markets
Here's a roundup of key developments across the halal industry ecosystem during the month of November
Editor's note: Has hijab fashion taken centre stage? Seems quite like it. Indonesia Hijabfest returned for the 11th time in November, becoming a platform for enthusiasts and designers to showcase modest clothing. It has also set its sights on Qatar's investment to bolster key sectors.
In other news, Malaysia's TheNoor aims to shift its HQ to Madinah in what is a testament to its growing technological might. Meanwhile, Saudia has unveiled dedicated Umrah websites for US and Canadian markets, to facilitate religious travel.
Company News
Indonesia
Indonesia Hijabfest is back again
Indonesia Hijabfest this year returned to support the hijab and modest fashion industry.
As the first hijab expo in Indonesia, the 11th edition took place from November 2-5, at Sabuga, Bandung.
The event, which began in 2012, served as a platform for designers, business professionals, and hijab enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse range of Muslim clothing for women and children. (Tempo)
New Zealand
New Zealand's first hijab fashion show showcased modest multicultural designs
Le Amana, the first Hijab Fashion Show in Aotearoa (New Zealand), showcased the elegance of modest wear in South Auckland.
The event aimed to encourage the acceptance of the multicultural head covering, fostering confidence and comfort among hijab-wearing women.
Co-founder Feroza Rahman shared this vision during an interview on 531pi's Pacific Days, highlighting the show's commitment to empowering women through fashion. (PMN)
UAE
Development program launched for UAE-based Arabic language, Islamic education teachers
The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE), in collaboration with Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities (MBZUH) and Emirates Schools Establishment (ESE), has launched the Ethraa Professional Development Program.
Geared towards Arabic Language and Islamic Education teachers, the program aims to boost their specialized abilities. (Zawya)
Saudi Arabia
TheNoor to shift headquarters to Madinah
Taibah Valley Company, associated with Taibah University, has entered into a partnership with TheNoor, a Malaysian technology and Islamic lifestyle company.
As part of this strategic move, TheNoor will relocate its headquarters to Madinah, benefiting from a technical environment conducive to innovation. (Halal Focus)
Trade Developments
Indonesia
Indonesia’s Muslim-friendly tourism microsite launch marks new beginning
The Indonesia Muslim-friendly Tourism (IMFT) microsite was unveiled at the 5th International Halal Tourism Summit during the Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival.
Developed through collaboration between CrescentRating, the Halal Tourism Association of Indonesia (PPHI), Bank of Indonesia, National Committee for Sharia Economics and Finance (KNEKS), and the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Republic of Indonesia (Kemenparekraf RI), the microsite offers Muslim travelers a tailored resource to plan authentic and immersive trips to Indonesia. (Travel Daily Media)
Indonesia / Qatar
Indonesia eyes Qatari FDI in hospitality, tourism sectors
Indonesia aims to strengthen collaboration with Qatar in hospitality and tourism sectors, with a focus on the multi-trillion global halal industry and the growing trade volume between the two nations.
Indonesian Ambassador Ridwan Hassan emphasized the significance of this cooperation during Hospitality Qatar 2023, held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre until November 8. (Gulf Times)
Perak (Malaysia)
MOU will promote Muslim-friendly tourism in Perak
The Ipoh City Council, with a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) for Muslim-friendly tourism, is targeting a minimum of 150,000 Muslim visitors in the coming year.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad highlighted the significance of the MOU as a strategic step by the Ipoh City Council to enhance tourism in Perak, particularly in Ipoh, for the upcoming year. (The Star)
Operational Developments
Saudi Arabia
Saudia announces Umrah websites in America and Canada
Saudia has introduced dedicated Umrah websites for US and Canadian markets, offering enhanced support and user-friendly booking services for pilgrims embarking on Umrah and Hajj journeys.
The airline, unveiling these platforms during the World Travel Market in London, aims to cater specifically to the needs of North American pilgrims, showcasing its commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences for Umrah and Hajj participants from the US and Canada. (Arabian Business)
Education
Qatar
Education ministry, Qatar University to develop Islamic education curricula for schools
The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) and Qatar University (QU) have entered into an agreement to collaborate on the development of a curriculum for Islamic education in public schools.
The partnership aims to enhance "The Student's Handbook" and "The Teacher's Guide" for all stages from grade 1 to 12, marking a crucial step in advancing Islamic education in the country. (Mena FN)
