Challenges and opportunities for halal tourism

Abstract

Purpose – The increase in the Muslim population coupled with the growth of their average income raises the profile of halal tourism (HT) within the tourism industry and generates the need for a systematic analysis to identify the factors that enable its sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to systematically review and assess the literature published on halal tourism in order to contextualise the analysis of HT activity and identify key factors for its sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach – This review focuses on the literature published in English and uses a systematic search strategy in Scopus, thereby obtaining 24 publications. Descriptive statistical and bibliometric analyses were carried out using VOSviewer software. Findings – Since 2017, scientific research on HT has grown significantly, with Indonesia leading in research output. Key areas of study include sustainable tourism, host community perceptions and demand factors. Emerging trends highlight the adaptation of services in non-Islamic destinations, the implementation of halal hospitality standards and the development of policies for economic integration. Originality/value – This meta-analytical review aims to identify the most widely used theories for the analysis of its development, the most significant authors, the leading countries and institutions in this thematic field, together with the way in which these are interrelated, by exploring the lines of research most frequently analysed by academics and by discussing the implications of the lines of action proposed for the development of HT.