Hafsa Gaher is a trailblazer in Halal tourism, leading the Halal Travel Network (HTN) with a mission to make travel more inclusive and sustainable. Her journey began in East Africa, where the profound experiences of safaris and adventures shaped her identity as a Muslim and travel enthusiast. “Growing up surrounded by safaris and once-ina-lifetime adventures profoundly shaped my perspective both as a Muslim and as an African,” Hafsa shares. Moving to the UK allowed her to appreciate diverse cultures, further fuelling her passion for travel. “There is so much possibility to share cultural experiences and celebrate the diversity around us,” she adds.
The demand for Halal tourism is on the rise globally, driven by large Muslim populations and a growing interest in travel among younger generations. This trend is evident in regions with larger Muslim populations, Muslim travellers are seeking destinations that align with their values and lifestyle. However, this trend spans beyond these regions, reflecting a broader global movement towards inclusive and culturally respectful travel experiences.
The Halal Travel Network
The Halal Travel Network was founded to address a significant gap in the travel market. Hafsa and her team recognised that “not all places are well equipped to cater for Muslims. We aren’t a difficult community to please, and there are so many aspects of Halal tourism that destinations can promote to welcome Muslim travellers,” Hafsa explains. The Network aims to create a global hub where travel professionals can connect, collaborate, and enhance their offerings to meet Halal standards.
HTN’s primary objectives include assessing available services, developing roadmapsfor improvement, and providing training to ensure destinations meet Halal standards. Once a member is market-ready, HTN supports their promotion through targeted marketing efforts and events. The Network fosters a global community of travel professionals, offers training, and resources, and provides marketing opportunities. The network supports destinations in adapting to Halal tourism, promoting cultural exchange, and ensuring sustainable travel practices. Hafsa reflects, “The goal is to support the travel industry as we broaden the horizons of Muslim travellers, so that they can consider travelling somewhere new, safe in the knowledge that they will not only be welcomed but catered for.” Halal tourism promotes cultural understanding, mutual respect, and sustainable travel. It aligns with environmental campaigns and community-based tourism, reinforcing the positive aspects of Halal principles.
“All these positive aspects are Sunnah and integrate into the umbrella of Halal tourism,” Hafsa emphasises.
The Global Trend in Halal Tourism
Halal tourism is increasingly gaining traction worldwide as more Muslim travellers seek experiences that align with their values and lifestyle. This global trend reflects a growing demand for travel options that cater to Islamic principles, ensuring that destinations and services meet Halal standards. The rise in Muslim travel interest is not confined to any single region but spans the globe. This trend is driven by both significant Muslim populations and a growing curiosity among younger generations about diverse travel experiences that respect their faith. Destinations are adapting to meet the needs of this demographic, with an increasing number of hotels, restaurants, and attractions providing Halal options. As this trend grows, the emphasis is on creating inclusive travel experiences that honour Islamic principles while offering enriching and immersive encounters with local cultures.
Impact and Success Stories
HTN has achieved significant milestones, including positive feedback from businesses and successful adaptations of destinations toHalal tourism. Hafsa’s experience with Archer & Gaher Adventures underscores this impact.
“I want to show that it doesn’t have to be difficult or prohibitively expensive to welcome Muslim tourists and that they don’t need to compromise on their other clients in order to cater for us,” Hafsa asserts.
Her experience in Tanzania highlights her commitment to showcasing destinations: “Tanzania is so much more than its landmarks. It is one of my main targets to showcase an Africa beyond safari, beyond the tribal dances that tourists see, to really get into the vibrant cultures that make these experiences so special.”
The Broader Significance of Halal Tourism
Halal tourism significantly benefits local economies and fosters cultural understanding by attracting diverse traveller groups and promoting cultural exchange. Hafsa emphasises the importance of community-based tourism, stating, “Immersive travel ensures each of my clients has a unique experience as it is built around people and interaction.”
Aligned with sustainable travel trends, Halal tourism supports responsible practices and community initiatives, contributing to environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. HTN is also dedicated to dispelling myths about Halal tourism, demonstrating that catering to Muslim travellers is both feasible and advantageous. As Hafsa puts it, “Halal tourism is so dynamic, rooted in our faith and our shared religious culture,” highlighting the importance of inclusive and respectful travel practices.
The Future of the Halal Travel Network
HTN has exciting plans, including new projects and partnerships. These initiatives will further the Network’s mission and expand its reach. Hafsa notes, “I am excited for the future. A lot of things have come together this year and with our latest platform going live, I can start bringing all these ideas, all the training and events into one hub.” Hafsa envisions Halal tourism becoming a central part of global travel trends. “I’ve had the opportunity to speak at a number of tourism industry events and the uptake has been surprising,” she says, reflecting on HTN’s role in shaping the future of travel.
Engaging with the Halal Travel Network Businesses, destinations, and travel professionals are encouraged to join HTN. Membership offers access to exclusive resources, training, and networking opportunities. At the same time, Muslim travellers are invited to explore new destinations with confidence, knowing that HTN is dedicated to meeting their needs. The Network’s efforts ensure meaningful and enjoyable travel experiences. Promoting Halal tourism enriches the travel experience for everyone and honours cultural values. HTN is committed to making travel more inclusive and impactful.
For more information or to get involved:
Visit https://halaltravel.network or email Hafsa directly at hafsa@halaltravel.net
