Thursday, August 22, 2024 The upcoming 4th World Islamic Tourism Conference (WITC), scheduled for September 12-13, 2024, at Sunway Resort Hotel in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia , is poised to make a significant impact on the global tourism sector. The conference, themed “Forging Connections,” is expected to be a pivotal event for Islamic tourism, bringing together over 40 local and international experts to discuss the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges within the Muslim tourism market. This gathering is particularly relevant for the travel industry, as it seeks to better understand and cater to the needs of the rapidly growing Muslim tourist demographic.
Thematic Focus: Understanding and Expanding Muslim Tourism The WITC 2024 will cover four key tracks: Understanding Muslim Tourists, Muslim-Friendly Travel and Community, Growth and Opportunity, and Inclusivity. These tracks are designed to provide attendees with the insights necessary to enhance their businesses, develop more attractive products, and address the various challenges that the Islamic tourism industry faces. For the travel sector, these discussions are crucial as they offer a roadmap for engaging with Muslim tourists, who represent one of the fastest-growing segments in global travel.
Understanding the preferences and expectations of Muslim tourists is essential for creating tailored travel experiences. This involves recognizing the importance of halal-certified services, prayer facilities, and culturally sensitive marketing strategies. The conference will likely explore these aspects in depth, offering practical advice on how to attract and retain Muslim tourists.
By focusing on inclusivity and community, WITC 2024 aims to promote a more welcoming environment for Muslim travelers, which could lead to increased tourism flows to destinations that embrace these values. Keynote Speakers: Shaping the Narrative of Islamic Tourism Among the keynote speakers is Omar DaCosta Shahid, a specialist in Muslim content and influencer marketing, who is recognized in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and among the 100 Most Influential British Muslims. Shahid is expected to deliver a keynote titled “Bridging the Non-mainstream, Mainstream: Connecting Across Boundaries,” where he will likely explore the integration of faith and business in marketing.
His insights are anticipated to have a profound impact on how travel and tourism brands approach Muslim tourists, particularly in the digital age where content and influencer marketing play a pivotal role. Another significant speaker is Shahzad Younas, the founder of the Muzz app, which is listed among the top five digital Islamic economy startups. Younas will discuss the opportunities in the digital space for Muslim tourists, highlighting how technology can be leveraged to create more personalized and accessible travel experiences.
His presentation is expected to shed light on the potential of digital platforms in connecting with Muslim travelers, offering practical strategies for tourism businesses to tap into this market. Global Implications for Travel Destinations The conference’s global implications for the travel industry cannot be overstated. As destinations around the world seek to attract a more diverse range of tourists, understanding the specific needs of Muslim travelers becomes increasingly important.
For example, Marta Fernández Martín, Director of the Spain Tourism Board, is expected to participate in a segment titled “Promoting Islamic Heritage as a Driver for Tourism.” She will likely discuss Spain’s strategy for leveraging its rich Islamic heritage to attract Muslim tourists. This discussion is particularly relevant for countries with significant Islamic history, as it highlights how cultural heritage can be a powerful tool in tourism marketing.
Additionally, the focus on standards and certifications during the panel titled “Standards: The Key to Winning Over Muslim Tourists,” led by Alex Castaldi, Chief Operating Officer of Sunway Hospitality Group, underscores the importance of building a robust Islamic tourism ecosystem. The establishment of clear standards and certifications can greatly enhance a destination’s appeal to Muslim tourists, ensuring that their specific needs are met and that they feel welcomed and respected during their travels. The Role of Industry Professionals Industry professionals, including hoteliers, airline companies, restaurateurs, and tourism product owners, are encouraged to register early for the conference to take advantage of the 50 percent early bird discount, valid until August 31.
This opportunity allows industry stakeholders to gain early access to the latest trends and strategies that will shape the future of Islamic tourism. By attending WITC 2024, these professionals can position themselves at the forefront of the Islamic tourism market, gaining valuable insights that can be applied to their businesses. The conference will also feature several panel discussions, providing a platform for experts to share their knowledge and experiences.
These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of topics, from the nuances of catering to Muslim tourists to the broader economic implications of the Islamic tourism market. For industry professionals, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders and peers, fostering connections that could lead to new partnerships and business opportunities. Looking Forward: A New Era for Islamic Tourism As WITC 2024 approaches, the travel industry is on the cusp of a new era in Islamic tourism.
The insights and strategies shared at the conference are likely to influence the direction of Muslim-friendly travel for years to come. By focusing on inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and the integration of digital tools, the conference aims to equip tourism businesses with the knowledge they need to thrive in this expanding market. The global effects of WITC 2024 will likely extend far beyond the conference itself.
As more destinations and businesses adopt the strategies discussed, Muslim tourists can expect to see a wider range of travel options that cater to their specific needs. This, in turn, could lead to a more connected and inclusive global tourism industry, where travelers from all backgrounds feel welcomed and respected. In conclusion, the 4th World Islamic Tourism Conference in Malaysia is set to be a landmark event for the travel sector.
With over 40 experts set to share their knowledge and experiences, the conference will provide invaluable insights into the future of Islamic tourism. For industry professionals, this is an opportunity not to be missed, as the strategies discussed at WITC 2024 will shape the future of the Muslim travel market and, by extension, the global tourism industry..
