Thailand launches halal app to boost Muslim tourism

Muslim tourists in Thailand can now explore the country without a hitch, thanks to the newly launched Halal Route app. Developed by the Halal Science Centre at Chulalongkorn University, this game-changing app offers a comprehensive guide to halal-friendly restaurants, hotels, mosques, and even prayer locations.

As Islamic tourism booms globally, with a predicted 168 million Muslim tourists this year, Thailand aims to welcome more of these travellers. But there’s been one big hurdle: finding halal-certified restaurants and accommodation. Ranked 32nd in the Global Muslim Travel Index, Thailand hopes Halal Route will push it higher up the list.

Erfun Weahama from the app’s development team commented that Muslim tourists can now live and travel more comfortably. The app covers everything from mosques to prayer directions and even includes attractions and Muslim villages. Linked to Google Maps, Halal Route supports Thai, English, and Arabic, ensuring ease of use for international visitors.

Dr Anat Denyingyot, Assistant Director of the Halal Science Centre added that all restaurants and locations have been audited and are certified by trusted organisations. This app doesn’t just provide a list; it guarantees halal conditions with its robust HAL-Q system, offering peace of mind to all users.

With a database of over 1,100 halal restaurants spanning 40 popular tourist provinces, the Halal Route is constantly expanding.

Associate Professor Dr Winai Dahlan added that the app is more than just a navigation tool; it’s a platform that connects global Muslim communities visiting Thailand, reported Travel Daily News.

In related news, the Export-Import Bank of Thailand (Exim Bank) has partnered with the Islamic Bank of Thailand (IBank) to provide loans at interest rates lower than the prime rate, aiming to establish Thailand as ASEAN’s halal hub by 2028.

Representatives from Exim Bank, IBank, the Sheikhul Islam Office (Chularatchamontri), and various sectors involved in supporting halal products signed an agreement for a project titled Support and Promote Halal Product Entrepreneurs to Export on August 6.