3rd International Halal (Muslim-Friendly) Tourism Congress Started in Izmir

The 3rd International Halal (Muslim Friendly) Tourism Congress, organized by Afyon Kocatepe University (AKÜ), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), International Halal Tourism Association (IHATO), Independent Industrialists and Businessmen Association (MÜSİAD), and the Islamic Countries Standards and Metrology Institute (SMIIC), commenced recently. The event took place at the Royal Teos Thermal Resort Clinic & SPA, featuring prominent figures such as AKÜ Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Karakaş, Halal Accreditation Agency (HAK) President Zafer Soylu, and SMIIC Secretary General İhsan Övüt, among others.

The congress is a platform where academia meets industry, aimed at directing the sector correctly and leveraging academic research to foster development in Muslim-friendly tourism. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Pamukçu, Chairman of the Congress Organizing Committee, highlighted the congress’s objectives to facilitate the exchange of information, enhance service improvement, and contribute to the development of new travel products and services. He expressed gratitude to the 125 academics and 30 industry professionals from 36 different countries and 55 universities who participated.

Tourism is recognized as a dynamic sector influenced by various socioeconomic and technological factors. Recent trends show a significant rise in Muslim-friendly tourism, which adheres to Islamic principles and has expanded significantly worldwide. This form of tourism not only preserves Muslim service principles but also boosts local economies by attracting a broader range of visitors and encouraging new investments.

The congress also marked an essential step towards the first “International Muslim-friendly Tourism Summit,” envisioned to strengthen the ties between industry stakeholders and the academic community further. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Karakaş emphasized the importance of tourism as a vital activity, with Turkey emerging as a key destination due to its rich historical, natural, and cultural attractions.

The event was supported by a broad array of stakeholders, including government ministries, academic institutions, and industry associations. It showcased 72 scientific studies by 124 authors from 24 countries, illustrating the global collaboration and support for enhancing the Muslim-friendly tourism sector.

In conclusion, the congress facilitated substantial discussions and collaborations, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at integrating scientific insights with practical industry applications to propel the growth of Muslim-friendly tourism globally.