Monday, September 16, 2024 The Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University has introduced the Halal Route application, a comprehensive platform designed to assist Muslim tourists in navigating Thailand with confidence. This innovative app provides a wide range of information, including Halal-certified restaurants, accommodations, mosques, prayer times, and tourist attractions, all following Islamic tourism principles. The initiative is aimed at both enhancing the travel experience for Muslim visitors and supporting the local tourism industry by catering to this growing market.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) , an estimated 168 million Islamic tourists are expected worldwide in 2024. Currently, Thailand ranks 32nd on the Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI 2024) as a preferred destination for Muslim travelers. However, a significant challenge these visitors face is finding Halal-compliant services, such as accredited restaurants, hotels, and facilities like prayer rooms.
To address this, the Halal Route app serves as an all-in-one solution, aggregating detailed and searchable information on Halal eateries, mosques, prayer times and directions (qibla), tourist spots, and even Muslim communities and villages across Thailand. The app integrates seamlessly with Google Maps , providing precise navigation, and is available in three languages: Thai, English, and Arabic, ensuring ease of use for international travelers. Mr.
Erfun Weahama , Science Service Officer and a key developer of the Halal Route app, explained that the app aims to ensure Muslim tourists can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free travel experience in Thailand. Dr. Anat Denyingyot , Assistant Director of the Halal Science Center, emphasized the reliability of the app, stating: “The Halal Route app is equipped with the most comprehensive and accurate information regarding halal tourism in Thailand.
All listed restaurants and locations undergo on-site audits and are certified by credible religious and halal-related organizations. These establishments also adhere to the HAL-Q system, ensuring they meet strict Halal standards.” The app currently features more than 1,100 Halal-certified restaurants, with updates continually expanding its database, covering over 40 tourist-popular provinces across Thailand, from the northern regions to the southern provinces.
Associate Professor Dr. Winai Dahlan , Director of the Halal Science Center, highlighted that the app not only helps with navigation but also acts as a platform connecting Muslim communities worldwide who wish to explore Thailand. The app’s aim is to ensure that Muslim visitors can travel in harmony with their faith, creating a sense of connection and community.
The Halal Route application is available for free download on both iOS and Android platforms, making it easily accessible to users around the globe..
