Muslim Friendly Tourism (MFT):
Understanding the Supply and Demand Sides
In the OIC Member Countries
22
availability of hand showers, bidets or even Japanese-style toilets. Figure 7 contains pictures of
water friendly washrooms.
Figure 7: Water friendly washrooms
Common in Muslim countries as well as South and Southeast Asian countries, the hand shower
is a plumbing fixture placed in a holder against a wall by the toilet.
e) No Non-Halal Activities
Muslims consider some activities to be ‘Haram’ or non-Halal. When it comes to traveling, these
are generally centered on requiring a family friendly environment. As such, some Muslims
would prefer to avoid facilities that serve alcohol, have discotheques or is adjacent to a casino.
f) Recreational facilities and services with privacy
A sub-segment of Muslim travelers is looking for recreational facilities that provide privacy for
males and females. These include the following:
 Swimming pools and gyms that are either segregated or provide different timings for
males and females
 Beaches which provide areas for males and females to enjoy in privacy
1.2.3 Segmentation of Muslim Travelers based on Faith-based needs
Muslim travelers are not homogeneous in their adherence to the faith-based needs discussed
above. Based on a number of studies that have been conducted, including the surveys
conducted as a part of this study, Muslim travelers can be broadly categorized into three major
segments. They are as follows:
Segment A – Strictly practicing Muslims. These Muslims are very strict in adherence to all the
faith-based needs while traveling. On holiday, they would choose only those services, which
provide a very Muslim friendly environment. As an example, they would look for recreational
facilities that provide privacy and do not have non-halal activities. They will also look for Halal
food that has been assured Halal by either a Certification body or Muslim management.
Segment B – Practicing Muslims. These Muslims would generally not compromise on their
needs, but will be comfortable with alternatives. Their main concerns will be around Halal food