The Muslim travel market is one of the fastest growing segments in the global travel industry. According to the MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2016, there were 117 million Muslim international travelers globally in 2015. Driven by a rapid population growth of Muslims, a growing middle class and younger population, this number is projected to grow to 168 million by 2020. The travel expenditure by this segment is expected to exceed USD 200 billion by 2020. This growth has been facilitated by an increase in ease of access to travel information and the availability of Muslim-friendly travel services and facilities at more destinations.

1. MasterCard-CrescentRating
Ramadan Travel Report
By MasterCard & CrescentRating
June 2016

2. Ramadan Travel Report
By MasterCard & CrescentRating
June 2016
MasterCard-CrescentRating

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Table of Contents
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The Muslim Travel Market
Ramadan Around the World
Traveling During Ramadan
Key Findings
Catering to the Needs of Muslim Travelers in Ramadan
Interview
Data Sources

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About CrescentRating
MasterCard is a technology company in the global payments industry. MasterCard operates the world’s
fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants,
governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories.
MasterCard’s products and solutions make everyday commerce activities - such as shopping, traveling,
running a business, and managing finances - easier, more secure, and more efficient for everyone.
CrescentRating is a leading authority on Halal-friendly travel. The company uses insights, industry
intelligence, lifestyle, behavior and research on the needs of the Muslim traveler to deliver authoritative
guidance on all aspects of Halal-friendly travel to organizations across the globe.
Formed in 2008, CrescentRating services are used by every tier of the tourism industry globally, from
government bodies and tourism agencies to hospitality service providers, to inform how they can meet
and serve the needs of the Muslim traveler.
CrescentRating’s services include rating & accreditation, research & consultancy, workshops & training,
ranking & indices, destination marketing, event support/partnerships and content provisioning. HalalTrip
and Muslim Travel Warehouse are sister companies of CrescentRating Pte. Ltd.
About MasterCard

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
The Muslim travel market is one of the fastest growing segments in the global travel industry. According
to the MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2016, there were 117 million
Muslim international travelers globally in 2015. Driven by a rapid population growth of Muslims, a
growing middle class and younger population, this number is projected to grow to 168 million by 2020.
The travel expenditure by this segment is expected to exceed USD 200 billion by 2020. This growth has
been facilitated by an increase in ease of access to travel information and the availability of
Muslim-friendly travel services and facilities at more destinations.
The Muslim Travel Market
The choice of travel destinations amongst Muslim travelers has evolved. In the past, they often chose to
travel to a few specific destinations due to the limited availability of Muslim-friendly facilities and
services or due to religious needs at particular locations and periods of the year. The main example of
religious travel is the performance of the pilgrimage or Haj to Makkah, which can only be performed
during the month of Dhul Hijjah or the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar.
This has substantially changed over the years. In today’s globalized and interconnected world, the travel
needs of the Muslims have become more varied and dynamic. As such, the more affluent and
empowered Muslim traveler now seeks for destinations with high levels of services which take into
account their unique needs throughout the year including the month of Ramadan.
With the growing trend of travel all around the year, the MasterCard-CrescentRating Ramadan Travel
Report analyzes the changing travel trends in Ramadan and the main drivers shaping this. The report
aims to help businesses and destinations better understand and cater to the different groups of Muslim
travelers during this holy month.
The Need to Travel Anywhere, Anytime

6. Image

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Perhaps no other month in the year punctuates the lifestyles of Muslims around the world more than
the holy month of Ramadan. In this month, Muslims observe fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam, by
abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking as well as intimacy from dawn to dusk.
Ramadan falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar system, and thus
has a 12 month cycle revolving around 355 days. As this is 10 days less than the Gregorian calendar, the
Islamic months, including the month of Ramadan, vary each year in comparison. Yearly, the month of
Ramadan advances by about 10 days compared to the Gregorian calendar.
This also means that for a given region, the daytime temperature and the duration of fasting will be
different each year, as the month of Ramadan revolves around the solar calendar (Gregorian calendar)
taking 30 years to complete a full cycle.
The length of the fasting period can vary substantially across different parts of the world due to the
changing times of sunrise and sunset. Although the average fasting time during Ramadan is between
11-16 hours per day, certain parts of the world, such as Europe, can experience fasting durations
exceeding 20 hours when Ramadan occurs during the summer months. In some parts of the world, when
Ramadan occurs during summer, the daytime temperature could soar above 40°C. As such, while lifestyle
changes may be common for Muslims around the world, the experience of fasting itself may be different
for Muslims living in different regions due to the impact of the duration of fasting and daytime
temperatures.
As for the common lifestyle changes of Muslims during Ramadan, although they will continue with their
normal day-to-day activities, they will also allocate additional time and effort towards other religious
activities such as reciting the Qur’an, frequenting the mosque for prayers and doing charitable work.
Some of the unique features of the month of Ramadan include:
Ramadan Around the World
The morning meal taken before the beginning of the fasting period is called Suhour, and the meal taken
at the breaking of a fast when the fasting period ends is called Iftar. These are very important meals for
Muslims. It is best to take Suhour as near as possible to the start of the fasting period, and Iftar should be
taken as soon as the fasting period ends.
Iftar and Suhour Meals
During the month of Ramadan, most Muslims will pray an additional congregational prayer called the
Taraweeh prayer. The timing of the Taraweeh prayer is after the last of the five prayers of the day, known
as the Isha’a prayers.
Taraweeh Prayers

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
The vast majority of Muslims around the world prefer not to travel during the month of Ramadan.
Instead, they would spend the month with family and friends at home in a familiar environment to
maximize the observance of faith-related practices. Apart from home, the other top three locations that
Muslims are eager to spend a good part of the month of Ramadan are the three holy mosques of Masjid
al-Haram, Masjid an-Nabawi and Masjid al-Aqsa.
Makkah and Madinah, in which Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi are located respectively, remain
the top two destinations for Muslims during Ramadan. During this period, Muslims would try to combine
the performance of Umrah (minor pilgrimage) in Makkah with the unique benefits of observing the
fasting of Ramadan within the sanctity of the holy mosques in Makkah and Madinah. In addition, many
Muslims also spend the last 10 days staying in Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi for the purpose of
worship in seclusion or Itikaf.
According to Saudi Arabian authorities, 2015 saw more than 6 million visitors during the month
of Ramadan. With the expansion of the two holy mosques, this number could continue to rise in the
coming years.
Apart from home and the holy mosques, there is a growing trend amongst Muslims to spend their
Ramadan in other locations. In most cases this could be due to necessity.
The six key drivers contributing to the increasing number of
Muslims traveling during Ramadan:
Umrah Travel: Umrah travel continues to be the main
faith-based need for Muslim travelers journeying to the holy
city of Makkah. This number is set to increase with more
capacity being catered to travelers visiting the holy site.
Traveling During Ramadan
Six Key Drivers of Muslims Traveling in Ramadan Six Key Drivers of Muslims
Traveling in Ramadan
Umrah Travel
Business Travel
Ramadan with Family
Ramadan Culture
Eid Festival
Extreme Weather or Duration
Business Travel: Muslim business travelers would need to continue to travel should business activities
and dealings fall in the month of Ramadan. With globalized trade and an increasingly interconnected
world, the need for business travel in Ramadan will remain.
Ramadan with Family: With an increasing trend in family members living overseas for long periods due
to studies or work, with some even migrating to other countries, Ramadan becomes an important and
precious period for Muslims to travel and be closer to their loved ones.
Ramadan Culture: Muslim travelers are also opting to travel during this period to experience the
unique ways Ramadan is practised around the world. The culture experienced in another country may
be significantly different from that in their home country.

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Extreme Weather or Duration: Unlike the past where Muslims were concentrated in specific regions,
today they have become a globalized community and live in almost every corner of the world. Muslims
living in environments with extreme weather conditions or long fasting durations may be motivated to
travel to other destinations during the month of Ramadan so that they can perform their fasting more
comfortably. This is especially true for first and second generation of migrants who have not grown
accustomed to their new living conditions, as well as people of old age.
With increasing availability of Ramadan-friendly facilities in many destinations, the above drivers will
continue to change the dynamics of Muslims spending the month of Ramadan away from their usual
place of residence.

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Since March 2015, the MasterCard-CrescentRating partnership has seen the release of a number reports
on the Muslim travel market. These reports have become premier resources for destinations and
businesses to develop strategies to attract and cater to the needs of the growing Muslim travel segment.
The MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) is now the global benchmark on how
destinations are performing in attracting the Muslim market segment. In 2015 MasterCard and
CrescentRating also released the Muslim Travel Shopping Index (MTSI) which looks at the shopping and
dining behavior of this segment.
The “MasterCard-CrescentRating Ramadan Travel Report” is another landmark report in this series. It
looks at the changing patterns of travel during the holy month of fasting. This report is the most
comprehensive study of its kind giving destinations and businesses useful insights on how they can
develop medium to long-term strategies to attract and cater to Muslim travelers during the month of
Ramadan over the next 15 years.
A total of 50 destinations were analyzed in this year’s report. These were selected based on the top 50
destinations from the MasterCard-CrescentRating GMTI 2016 report, 49 of which (excluding Saudi
Arabia) were benchmarked based on the weighted averages of three criteria over a span of 15 years,
which is an effective timeframe for the long term strategic planning for a destination.
The criteria used in this study were based on the convenience, comfort and ease of travel, and not from
the perspective of Islamic rewards. As such, the MasterCard-CrescentRating Ramadan Travel Report
focuses on the following three themes:
MasterCard-CrescentRating Ramadan Travel Report
Overview
Average Daytime Temperature
Fasting Duration
GMTI 2016 Score. For the purpose of this study, it was assumed that these GMTI scores remain constant
over the next 15 years.

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Average Daytime
Temperature
Fasting Duration GMTI 2016 Score
Weather is an important
factor that determines a
traveler's level of comfort.
Information on weather
forecasts of destinations over
a period of 15 years were
factored into calculation.
Only past weather patterns
were used in forecasting
which does not take into
account future global
temperature changes such as
global warming.
A scale was used to assign
points to a range of
temperatures with higher
points awarded to the cooler
temperatures deemed most
comfortable for traveling.
Average fasting duration was
factored since the number of
hours per day spent fasting
differs from country to
country.
Calculations on the fasting
durations of destinations
over a period of 15 years
were made.
Destinations that did not
have longer fasting hours
were given higher points in
terms of travel comfort.
The GMTI score received by
each destination on the
Global Muslim Travel Index
2016 was used to take into
account the destination's
overall Muslim-friendliness.
Latest GMTI 2016 score was
kept as a constant for each of
destinations over a period of
15 years.
Destinations that were
ranked higher on GMTI 2016
received more points for this
criteria.
20%
Weightage
30%
Weightage
50%
Weightage
The relatively higher weightage of the GMTI reflects the importance of the Muslim friendly environment
especially in the month of Ramadan.

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The 50 destinations analyzed in this report covers 30 OIC* destinations and 20 non-OIC destinations.
Africa Asia
Algeria
Djibouti
Egypt
Gambia
Morocco
Senegal
Somalia
South Africa
Sudan
Tunisia
OIC Members non-OIC destinations
* Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
Hong Kong
India
Indonesia
Iran
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Lebanon
Malaysia
Maldives
Oman
Pakistan
Philippines
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Sri Lanka
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Thailand
Turkey
United Arab Emirates
Uzbekistan
Oceania
Europe
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
France
Germany
Russian Federation
Spain
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Australia
Americas
United States

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Makkah and Medina (Saudi Arabia) serve as the top destinations from a religious perspective,
irrespective of the three criteria used for this analysis. As such, it is excluded from the ranking and has
been addressed separately in this study.
The analysis of the rest of the 49 destinations is based on the ranking of these destinations for Muslim
travelers during Ramadan. As average daytime temperature and fasting duration in each destination
changes from year to year, combined with GMTI 2016 scores, there is an yearly change in how the
destination would rank over the span of 15 years. Table 1 shows the ranking of top 20 most attractive
destinations for Muslim travelers in Ramadan from 2016 to 2030.
Key Findings
From 2023 to 2030, Ramadan will occur during the months of April to January. As such, Gulf Cooperation
Council (GCC) member states, such as UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait, which are already Muslim
friendly, also become attractive destinations from a day-time temperature and fasting duration criteria.
North African destinations such as Morocco and Tunisia, in addition to Egypt and Jordan, will also rise in
the rankings.
While only two GCC member countries, United Arab Emirates and Oman, are present in the top 10
rankings in 2016, this is projected to significantly change as the years progress towards 2030. In 2030, in
addition to Saudi Arabia, it is projected that half of the top 10 most attractive destinations for Muslim
Travelers in Ramadan will be from the GCC destinations such as UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait.
GCC Member States, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt and Jordan
What can these destinations do to maximize this opportunity?
Offer unique stopover products for passengers traveling to Umrah. This is an opportunity for
GCC-based airlines such as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar airlines.
Continue to have more and more Muslim friendly services and facilities. This will improve GMTI
scores and maintain strong rankings in order to ensure that GCC destinations remain Muslim friendly
in Ramadan in the years to come.
Develop strategic plans to offer new products and services that will attract travelers during these
years. This could also include business travel market.
Develop destination marketing efforts which synergise and focus on welcoming Muslim travelers to
these destinations.

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Makkah and Madinah in Saudi Arabia are the top two destinations for Muslims during Ramadan,
regardless of other criteria used in the ranking. The increase in attractiveness of GCC states from 2016 to
2030 will sit well with the Kingdom's efforts to gain momentum and progress towards its recently
announced Vision 2030. It presents a significant opportunity to benefit from the influx of Umrah visitors
and expand its attractiveness to the rest of the country.
This report has identified several key initiatives under Vision 2030, which will impact the Muslim traveler
journeying to the kingdom in the month of Ramadan.
Saudi Arabia and Vision 2030
Average Daytime Temperature
Increase in capacity of Umrah visitors from 8
million to 30 million every year.
Increase in the number of Saudi heritage
sites registered with UNESCO to more than
double.
Positive news for Muslim travelers seeking to
perform Umrah in Ramadan.
Deeper appreciation of Islamic history and
culture of Saudi Arabia by Muslim travelers.
Growth in retail sector with increase in the
contribution of modern trade and
e-commerce to 80 percent by 2020.
More choices for Muslim travelers to
purchase products and services with brands
familiar to them.
Development of digital infrastructure with
over 90 percent housing coverage in densely
populated cities and 66 percent in other
urban zones.
Easier for Muslim travelers to stay connected
with loved ones in the month of Ramadan.
Better transportation system with attractions
such as the largest Islamic museum in the
world.
Greater convenience for Muslim travelers to
commute and visit tourist attractions.
Goals by 2030 Impact on Muslim Travelers in Ramadan

15. 1
Table 1 : Ramadan Travel Report Results - GCC Highlights
*ColoredcellsrepresentvariousGCCdestinations.
Rank201620172018201920202021202220232024202520262027202820292030
1MalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
Qatar
2IndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
MalaysiaMalaysiaQatarOman
3SingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoQatarQatarQatarQatarQatarMalaysiaMalaysia
4TurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyOmanOmanOman
UnitedArab
Emirates
5BruneiBruneiMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
UnitedArab
Emirates
IndonesiaQatarMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
6SouthAfricaSouthAfricaSouthAfrica
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
SingaporeJordanIndonesiaOmanOmanOmanTurkeyTurkeyBahrainBahrain
7MaldivesMaldives
UnitedArab
Emirates
SouthAfricaSouthAfricaJordanSingaporeJordanIndonesiaBahrainBahrainBahrainBahrainKuwaitKuwait
8
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
BruneiBruneiQatarQatarQatarOmanBahrainIndonesiaEgyptKuwaitKuwaitEgyptEgypt
9IranIranIranIranJordanSouthAfricaOmanSingaporeJordanEgyptKuwaitEgyptEgyptTunisiaTunisia
10OmanMoroccoMaldivesJordanIranIranTunisiaBahrainSingaporeJordanIndonesiaIndonesiaTunisiaJordanJordan
11JordanJordanJordanMaldivesTunisiaTunisiaIranTunisiaEgyptSingaporeJordanTunisiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
12MoroccoOmanTunisiaTunisiaBruneiOmanBahrainEgyptTunisiaTunisiaTunisiaJordanJordanTurkeyTurkey
13QatarQatarQatarQatarOmanBruneiBruneiIranKuwaitKuwaitSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingapore
14AustraliaAustraliaOmanOmanMaldivesBahrainSouthAfricaBruneiIranIranPakistanPakistanAlgeriaBangladeshBangladesh
15ThailandTunisiaAustraliaAustraliaBahrainMaldivesEgyptKuwaitBruneiBruneiBruneiBruneiPakistanAlgeriaAlgeria
16TunisiaBahrainBahrainBahrainEgyptEgyptMaldivesMaldivesAlgeriaAlgeriaIranAlgeriaBruneiPakistanPakistan
17BahrainKazakhstanKazakhstanEgyptAustraliaAlgeriaKuwaitAlgeriaMaldivesPakistanAlgeriaIranBangladeshBruneiBrunei
18BangladeshThailandEgyptSenegalAlgeriaAustraliaAlgeriaSouthAfricaPakistanMaldivesBangladeshBangladeshIranIranIran
19SenegalEgyptSenegalAlgeriaSenegalKuwaitSenegalHongKongHongKongHongKongMaldivesMaldivesMaldives
United
Kingdom
United
Kingdom
20KazakhstanSenegalThailandThailandThailandSenegalHongKongPakistanSouthAfricaBangladeshHongKongHongKong
United
Kingdom
MaldivesMaldives
RankingofCountriesPerYear

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Table 2 highlights the rankings of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand from 2016 to
2030. The scores of these five Southeast Asian destinations remain largely unchanged due to the relative
consistency in average daytime temperatures and fasting durations of these equatorial destinations.
However, due to the increasing attractiveness of the Middle Eastern destinations, the rankings of the top
five Southeast Asia destinations (Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand) are projected to
decline from 2016 to 2030. In 2030, Malaysia is the only country expected to retain a spot amongst the
top five destinations. In addition, Thailand will drop out of the top 20 rankings
as early as 2021.
Malaysia will be able to maintain a strong leadership position as the most attractive destination for
Muslim travelers in Ramadan for 10 years from 2016 to 2026 due to its strong Muslim friendly
environment. It is expected to drop a couple of places in the following years.
Southeast Asia Destinations
What can Southeast Asian countries do to weather the storm?
Introduce more Muslim friendly services. Destinations can differentiate by introducing more Rama-
dan specific products and services, which cater to the needs of the Muslim traveler in Ramadan.
These can be synergised and consolidated into a campaign targeting Muslims to experience Ramadan
in Southeast Asia.
This is especially useful for destinations which will not experience much variations in temperature
and fasting durations.

17. 1
Table 2: Ramadan Travel Report Results - Southeast Asia Highlights
*ColoredcellsrepresentvariousSoutheastAsiandestinations.
Rank201620172018201920202021202220232024202520262027202820292030
1MalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
Qatar
2IndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
MalaysiaMalaysiaQatarOman
3SingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoQatarQatarQatarQatarQatarMalaysiaMalaysia
4TurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyOmanOmanOman
UnitedArab
Emirates
5BruneiBruneiMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
UnitedArab
Emirates
IndonesiaQatarMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
6SouthAfricaSouthAfricaSouthAfrica
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
SingaporeJordanIndonesiaOmanOmanOmanTurkeyTurkeyBahrainBahrain
7MaldivesMaldives
UnitedArab
Emirates
SouthAfricaSouthAfricaJordanSingaporeJordanIndonesiaBahrainBahrainBahrainBahrainKuwaitKuwait
8
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
BruneiBruneiQatarQatarQatarOmanBahrainIndonesiaEgyptKuwaitKuwaitEgyptEgypt
9IranIranIranIranJordanSouthAfricaOmanSingaporeJordanEgyptKuwaitEgyptEgyptTunisiaTunisia
10OmanMoroccoMaldivesJordanIranIranTunisiaBahrainSingaporeJordanIndonesiaIndonesiaTunisiaJordanJordan
11JordanJordanJordanMaldivesTunisiaTunisiaIranTunisiaEgyptSingaporeJordanTunisiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
12MoroccoOmanTunisiaTunisiaBruneiOmanBahrainEgyptTunisiaTunisiaTunisiaJordanJordanTurkeyTurkey
13QatarQatarQatarQatarOmanBruneiBruneiIranKuwaitKuwaitSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingapore
14AustraliaAustraliaOmanOmanMaldivesBahrainSouthAfricaBruneiIranIranPakistanPakistanAlgeriaBangladeshBangladesh
15ThailandTunisiaAustraliaAustraliaBahrainMaldivesEgyptKuwaitBruneiBruneiBruneiBruneiPakistanAlgeriaAlgeria
16TunisiaBahrainBahrainBahrainEgyptEgyptMaldivesMaldivesAlgeriaAlgeriaIranAlgeriaBruneiPakistanPakistan
17BahrainKazakhstanKazakhstanEgyptAustraliaAlgeriaKuwaitAlgeriaMaldivesPakistanAlgeriaIranBangladeshBruneiBrunei
18BangladeshThailandEgyptSenegalAlgeriaAustraliaAlgeriaSouthAfricaPakistanMaldivesBangladeshBangladeshIranIranIran
19SenegalEgyptSenegalAlgeriaSenegalKuwaitSenegalHongKongHongKongHongKongMaldivesMaldivesMaldives
United
Kingdom
United
Kingdom
20KazakhstanSenegalThailandThailandThailandSenegalHongKongPakistanSouthAfricaBangladeshHongKongHongKong
United
Kingdom
MaldivesMaldives
RankingofCountriesPerYear

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Table 3 highlights the positions of the non-OIC destinations from 2016 to 2030. Only four non-OIC
destinations appear in the top 20 in 2016. With the rise of rankings of OIC countries from 2023 to 2030,
there will only be two non-OIC destinations in the top 20 rankings from 2025 to 2030.
Overall, non-OIC destinations will remain largely less attractive for Muslim travelers in Ramadan from
2016 to 2030. The impact of this will be a decline in Muslim tourist arrivals into non-OIC countries, during
Ramadan in the years 2023 to 2030.
Non-OIC Destinations
As most Muslims travel with family for holidays, the school holidays represent a huge opportunity for
tourism. In the last six to seven years, the school holidays used to coincide with Ramadan in some of the
major Muslim outbound markets. However from 2017 to 2030, Ramadan will occur in non-school holiday
periods amongst most of the top 30 Muslim outbound destinations based on the
MasterCard-CrescentRating GMTI 2016 report.
As such, the school holiday periods between June and September will once again become peak periods
for Muslims leisure travelers, especially from the GCC countries.
Impact of School Holidays
What can non-OIC destinations do to attract more Ramadan travellers?
Non-OIC destinations which have a good level of services during Ramadan could focus on attracting
Muslim travelers from neighbouring countries for shorter visits.
Highlight the level of Muslim friendly services in their travel segments especially offered in the month
of Ramadan.
They could also focus on offering unique Eid gateways.

19. 1
Rank201620172018201920202021202220232024202520262027202820292030
1MalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
Qatar
2IndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
MalaysiaMalaysiaQatarOman
3SingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoQatarQatarQatarQatarQatarMalaysiaMalaysia
4TurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyOmanOmanOman
UnitedArab
Emirates
5BruneiBruneiMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
UnitedArab
Emirates
IndonesiaQatarMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
6SouthAfricaSouthAfricaSouthAfrica
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
SingaporeJordanIndonesiaOmanOmanOmanTurkeyTurkeyBahrainBahrain
7MaldivesMaldives
UnitedArab
Emirates
SouthAfricaSouthAfricaJordanSingaporeJordanIndonesiaBahrainBahrainBahrainBahrainKuwaitKuwait
8
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
BruneiBruneiQatarQatarQatarOmanBahrainIndonesiaEgyptKuwaitKuwaitEgyptEgypt
9IranIranIranIranJordanSouthAfricaOmanSingaporeJordanEgyptKuwaitEgyptEgyptTunisiaTunisia
10OmanMoroccoMaldivesJordanIranIranTunisiaBahrainSingaporeJordanIndonesiaIndonesiaTunisiaJordanJordan
11JordanJordanJordanMaldivesTunisiaTunisiaIranTunisiaEgyptSingaporeJordanTunisiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
12MoroccoOmanTunisiaTunisiaBruneiOmanBahrainEgyptTunisiaTunisiaTunisiaJordanJordanTurkeyTurkey
13QatarQatarQatarQatarOmanBruneiBruneiIranKuwaitKuwaitSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingapore
14AustraliaAustraliaOmanOmanMaldivesBahrainSouthAfricaBruneiIranIranPakistanPakistanAlgeriaBangladeshBangladesh
15ThailandTunisiaAustraliaAustraliaBahrainMaldivesEgyptKuwaitBruneiBruneiBruneiBruneiPakistanAlgeriaAlgeria
16TunisiaBahrainBahrainBahrainEgyptEgyptMaldivesMaldivesAlgeriaAlgeriaIranAlgeriaBruneiPakistanPakistan
17BahrainKazakhstanKazakhstanEgyptAustraliaAlgeriaKuwaitAlgeriaMaldivesPakistanAlgeriaIranBangladeshBruneiBrunei
18BangladeshThailandEgyptSenegalAlgeriaAustraliaAlgeriaSouthAfricaPakistanMaldivesBangladeshBangladeshIranIranIran
19SenegalEgyptSenegalAlgeriaSenegalKuwaitSenegalHongKongHongKongHongKongMaldivesMaldivesMaldives
United
Kingdom
United
Kingdom
20KazakhstanSenegalThailandThailandThailandSenegalHongKongPakistanSouthAfricaBangladeshHongKongHongKong
United
Kingdom
MaldivesMaldives
Table 3: Ramadan Travel Report Results - Non-OIC Highlights
*Coloredcellsrepresentvariousnon-OICdestinations.

20. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------18
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Table 4 plots the scores for the top 20 ranked destinations in Ramadan for Muslim travelers from
2016 to 2030.
The scores for all destinations are generally expected to increase from 2016 to 2030. This means that
Muslims traveling in the month of Ramadan will have a better quality experience in Muslim friendly
destinations as the year progresses towards 2030.
2023-2030: Best Years to Spend Ramadan in Muslim Friendly Destinations
What can Muslim travelers in Ramadan look forward to?
Muslim travelers who wish to experience Ramadan in the top destinations in the future can expect a
more pleasant experience with the weather in these destinations expected to be cooler and fasting
duration expected to be shorter.
Destinations can seize this opportunity by promoting themselves as go-to destinations for upcoming
Ramadan years. This can be coupled with efforts to increase the quality of Muslim friendly travel
services in these regions.

21. 1
65
67
69
71
73
75
77
79
81
83
201620172018201920202021202220232024202520262027202820292030
Score
Year
1234567891011121314151617181920Ranking:
Table 4: Scores of Top 20 Destinations in Ramadan from 2016 to 2030

22. 1
Rank201620172018201920202021202220232024202520262027202820292030
1MalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysiaMalaysia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
Qatar
2IndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
MalaysiaMalaysiaQatarOman
3SingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoQatarQatarQatarQatarQatarMalaysiaMalaysia
4TurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyTurkeyOmanOmanOman
UnitedArab
Emirates
5BruneiBruneiMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
UnitedArab
Emirates
IndonesiaQatarMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMoroccoMorocco
6SouthAfricaSouthAfricaSouthAfrica
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
SingaporeJordanIndonesiaOmanOmanOmanTurkeyTurkeyBahrainBahrain
7MaldivesMaldives
UnitedArab
Emirates
SouthAfricaSouthAfricaJordanSingaporeJordanIndonesiaBahrainBahrainBahrainBahrainKuwaitKuwait
8
UnitedArab
Emirates
UnitedArab
Emirates
BruneiBruneiQatarQatarQatarOmanBahrainIndonesiaEgyptKuwaitKuwaitEgyptEgypt
9IranIranIranIranJordanSouthAfricaOmanSingaporeJordanEgyptKuwaitEgyptEgyptTunisiaTunisia
10OmanMoroccoMaldivesJordanIranIranTunisiaBahrainSingaporeJordanIndonesiaIndonesiaTunisiaJordanJordan
11JordanJordanJordanMaldivesTunisiaTunisiaIranTunisiaEgyptSingaporeJordanTunisiaIndonesiaIndonesiaIndonesia
12MoroccoOmanTunisiaTunisiaBruneiOmanBahrainEgyptTunisiaTunisiaTunisiaJordanJordanTurkeyTurkey
13QatarQatarQatarQatarOmanBruneiBruneiIranKuwaitKuwaitSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingaporeSingapore
14AustraliaAustraliaOmanOmanMaldivesBahrainSouthAfricaBruneiIranIranPakistanPakistanAlgeriaBangladeshBangladesh
15ThailandTunisiaAustraliaAustraliaBahrainMaldivesEgyptKuwaitBruneiBruneiBruneiBruneiPakistanAlgeriaAlgeria
16TunisiaBahrainBahrainBahrainEgyptEgyptMaldivesMaldivesAlgeriaAlgeriaIranAlgeriaBruneiPakistanPakistan
17BahrainKazakhstanKazakhstanEgyptAustraliaAlgeriaKuwaitAlgeriaMaldivesPakistanAlgeriaIranBangladeshBruneiBrunei
18BangladeshThailandEgyptSenegalAlgeriaAustraliaAlgeriaSouthAfricaPakistanMaldivesBangladeshBangladeshIranIranIran
19SenegalEgyptSenegalAlgeriaSenegalKuwaitSenegalHongKongHongKongHongKongMaldivesMaldivesMaldivesUnitedKingdomUnitedKingdom
20KazakhstanSenegalThailandThailandThailandSenegalHongKongPakistanSouthAfricaBangladeshHongKongHongKongUnitedKingdomMaldivesMaldives
21EgyptBangladeshAlgeriaKazakhstanKazakhstanThailandAustraliaSenegalBangladeshLebanonLebanonUnitedKingdomHongKongHongKongHongKong
22AlgeriaAlgeriaBangladeshBangladeshBangladeshTajikistanLebanonLebanonSenegalSenegalSenegalThailandThailandThailandThailand
23SriLankaHongKongAzerbaijanHongKongKuwaitHongKongThailandBangladeshLebanonThailandUnitedKingdomSenegalSenegalIndiaLebanon
24HongKongTaiwanHongKongKuwaitHongKongBangladeshBangladeshThailandThailandSouthAfricaThailandLebanonLebanonSenegalIndia
25TaiwanAzerbaijanTaiwanTaiwanAzerbaijanTaiwanTajikistanTajikistanTajikistanIndiaIndiaIndiaIndiaLebanonSenegal
RankingofCountriesPerYear

23. 26AzerbaijanSriLankaKuwaitKyrgyzstanTaiwanLebanonPakistanTaiwanUnitedKingdomUnitedKingdomSouthAfricaAzerbaijanAzerbaijanAzerbaijanAzerbaijan
27UnitedKingdomKuwaitKyrgyzstanAzerbaijanKyrgyzstanAzerbaijanTaiwanAustraliaTaiwanTajikistanTajikistanTajikistanTajikistanTajikistanTajikistan
28SomaliaUnitedKingdomSriLankaTajikistanTajikistanUzbekistanAzerbaijanAzerbaijanUzbekistanTaiwanTaiwanTaiwanTaiwanTaiwanTaiwan
29KuwaitSomaliaTajikistanLebanonLebanonKazakhstanUzbekistanUzbekistanAzerbaijanAzerbaijanAzerbaijanSouthAfricaKyrgyzstanFranceKyrgyzstan
30GambiaKyrgyzstanJapanJapanUzbekistanKyrgyzstanKyrgyzstanUnitedKingdomKyrgyzstanKyrgyzstanKyrgyzstanKyrgyzstanFranceKyrgyzstanFrance
31KyrgyzstanJapanLebanonSriLankaPakistanPakistanKazakhstanKyrgyzstanAustraliaFranceSpainFranceSouthAfricaSpainSpain
32JapanTajikistanUnitedKingdomUnitedStatesUnitedStatesUnitedStatesUnitedKingdomUnitedStatesIndiaUzbekistanFranceSpainUnitedStatesUnitedStatesUnitedStates
33PhilippinesLebanonSomaliaUzbekistanJapanJapanJapanKazakhstanSpainSpainUnitedStatesUnitedStatesSpainSouthAfricaJapan
34PakistanGambiaUnitedStatesPakistanSriLankaSriLankaUnitedStatesJapanUnitedStatesUnitedStatesJapanJapanJapanJapanSouthAfrica
35TajikistanPakistanSpainUnitedKingdomUnitedKingdomUnitedKingdomSriLankaSpainSriLankaAustraliaDjiboutiDjiboutiDjiboutiDjiboutiBelgium
36LebanonUnitedStatesPakistanSpainSpainDjiboutiSpainSriLankaJapanJapanSriLankaSriLankaSriLankaBelgiumDjibouti
37FranceSpainUzbekistanSomaliaDjiboutiSpainDjiboutiDjiboutiFranceSriLankaUzbekistanPhilippinesBelgiumSriLankaSriLanka
38UnitedStatesDjiboutiGambiaDjiboutiSomaliaSomaliaIndiaIndiaDjiboutiDjiboutiAustraliaBelgiumPhilippinesKazakhstanSudan
39SpainPhilippinesDjiboutiGambiaGambiaGambiaFranceFranceKazakhstanKazakhstanKazakhstanSudanSudanSudanKazakhstan
40DjiboutiUzbekistanPhilippinesPhilippinesChinaChinaGambiaGambiaPhilippinesPhilippinesPhilippinesKazakhstanKazakhstanPhilippinesPhilippines
41UzbekistanFranceFranceFrancePhilippinesFranceChinaSomaliaGambiaGambiaBelgiumGambiaGambiaGambiaGermany
42
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
ChinaFrancePhilippinesSomaliaPhilippinesSomaliaBelgiumGambiaUzbekistanGermanyGermanyUzbekistan
43BelgiumIndiaChina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
IndiaPhilippinesChinaBelgiumSomaliaSudanAustraliaUzbekistanUzbekistanGambia
44IndiaSwitzerlandIndiaIndiaIndia
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
ChinaSudanGermanyGermanySwitzerlandSwitzerlandSwitzerland
45GermanySudanSudanSwitzerlandSwitzerlandBelgiumBelgiumBelgiumSudan
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Somalia
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
46SudanBelgiumSwitzerlandSudanSudanSwitzerlandSwitzerlandSudan
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Switzerland
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
SomaliaChinaSomalia
47SwitzerlandChinaBelgiumBelgiumBelgiumSudanSudanSwitzerlandSwitzerlandChinaSomaliaSomaliaAustraliaAustraliaChina
48ChinaGermanyGermanyGermanyGermanyGermanyGermanyGermanyGermanyGermanyChinaChinaChina
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
49
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Russian
Federation
Bosniaand
Herzegovina
Australia
Rank201620172018201920202021202220232024202520262027202820292030
RankingofCountriesPerYear

24. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------22
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
To cater to Muslim travelers during the month of Ramadan, a few key services and facilities need to be
available across all major travel segments including airports, airlines, hotels and destinations. Providing
these services will increase the appeal of the brand to Muslim travelers immensely without affecting the
overall characteristic of the airlines or hotel, nor will it be costly to implement.
Catering to the Needs of Muslim Travelers in Ramadan
To make it easier to implement Ramadan initiatives, it would be helpful if staff at hotels, airlines and
airports were aware of the basics of Ramadan. They can then understand the specific practices that
Muslims may engage in during fasting. For example, while fasting, Muslim passengers will be more active
in reciting/listening to the Qur'an and performing prayers.
General Ramadan Awareness
Ramadan Awareness of Staff
The time of fasting period begins (dawn) and ends (dusk), on any given day, is calculated very precisely
based on the time of sunrise and sunset. These times vary, depending mainly, on the geographical
location and the day of the year. The time to commence fasting coincides with the time of the first of the
five daily prayers a Muslim has to perform, referred to as Fajr prayers. The conclusion of the fasting
period of the day corresponds with the 4th of the five daily prayers, called Maghrib. The timings of the
five daily prayers and prayer direction for any given location can be found on HalalTrip.com or its mobile
App.
The Timing and Definitions of Dawn and Dusk (In the Islamic Sense)
The morning meal taken before the beginning of the fasting period (Suhour) and the meal taken at the
breaking of a fast when the fasting period ends (Iftar) are important meals for the Muslim. As dates and
water are generally consumed to break fast during Ramadan, it will be a good gesture to offer dates and
water to Muslim travelers during the month of fasting.
Iftar and Suhour Meals
Praying five times a day is also one of the obligatory pillars of Islam. A Muslim will be much more
conscious of this obligation during the month of Ramadan and as such, providing information, services
and facilities to perform prayers will make it even more comfortable. While traveling, some Muslims
may combine the five daily prayers to only three times a day.
Five Daily Prayers

25. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------23
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Muslims may be present at the airports during the time of breaking fast. As such, airports can take some
simple steps to cater to the needs Muslim travelers.
Airports
If the airport has a prayer room it will be a good gesture to provide dates and water.
Dates and Bottled Water at the Prayer Room
Airports can facilitate the Muslim traveler by providing information on the prayer schedule for the
location. This schedule can be placed in the special prayer rooms if available or made available at the
airport information counter.
Prayer Schedule for Ramadan
It will be good to have Halal food outlets in both public and transit areas. If they are generally not
available, then having some Halal food available at least temporarily during the month of Ramadan will
be helpful.
Halal Food Outlets

26. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------24
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
There are two possible non-intrusive ways of getting to know if a passenger is observing fasting:
Getting to Know if a Passenger is Observing the Ramadan Fast
These timings can be obtained for the flight using HalalTrip's In-flight prayer time calculator. It is available
both on the HalalTrip.com website as well as on the mobile application for iPhone, iPad and Android
devices.
Know the Suhour and Iftar Timings
If the vast majority of the passengers in the plane are Muslims, it may be helpful to announce when the
Suhour and Iftar times are near and will occur. Some airlines from Muslim majority countries are already
accustomed with this practice. Alternatively, the crew could inform fasting passengers individually when
the Suhour and Iftar times occur.
Announce the Suhour and Iftar Timings
Once the crew is aware that a passenger is fasting, it is best to do the following:
Serve Muslim Passengers Food at a Convenient Time
Airlines which are equipped with the understanding and the ability to cater to Muslim passengers who
are fasting will greatly enhance their customers' satisfaction.
Airlines
Capture that information when the customer is making the booking online.
Obtain the information while the passenger is checking in at the check-in counter. If someone has
requested a Muslim meal, the check-in counter staff can ask if the passenger is fasting and pass on
that information to the on-board crew
Place a sticker on the seat so that the rest of the crew is aware that he/she is fasting.
If the Suhour and Iftar times are not inconvenient times to serve meals, then it is best to serve the
passenger at those times.
If possible, at the time of breaking fast (Iftar), offer dates and a bottle of water before serving food.

27. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------25
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Muslim travelers will require some specific services and facilities at Hotels to make their stay a
comfortable one during the month of Ramadan.
If it is not possible to do any of the above, then the guests should at least be provided with a list of
nearby restaurants that do serve Halal meals. However this may not be a practical solution for Suhour
meals since it may be difficult for guests to travel to a restaurant at such a time.
Many hotels with sizable Muslim guests offer buffets for Iftar during Ramadan (Ramadan buffet), and
some offer buffets for Suhour as well. If there is no Suhour buffet, Muslim guests could be provided an
option which allows them to order room service during the time of Suhour. Hotels must also take greater
care when it comes to providing room service for Suhour. The meals must be prepared and delivered on
time otherwise it will prove difficult for your guests to fast appropriately.
It will be a good gesture to offer dates and water to Muslim hotel guests and visitors during the month of
fasting.
Hotels
Iftar and Suhour Meals
If a hotel has a Halal-certified kitchen or restaurant, then serving Iftar and Suhour becomes very easy. If a
hotel currently does not have a Halal-certified or Halal-assured restaurant or kitchen, then the following
options can be considered:
Halal Meals
Providing information, services and facilities to perform prayers will make the hotel guests feel more
comfortable. This requires the hotel to consider providing the following:
Prayer Facilities
Convert one of the hotel’s kitchens to a Halal-assured kitchen temporarily during the month of
Ramadan.
Consider outsourcing Iftar and Suhour meals for the month. Basics include dates, a drink, rice porridge
and (halal) snacks.
Placing of a prayer time table in the rooms.
Having prayer mats that are placed in the rooms or provided upon request.
Having female prayer dresses available for those who may need them.

28. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------26
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
The following services could be considered for guests who are keen on performing the additional
congregational prayer called the Taraweeh prayer which occurs after the Isha’a prayers:
Taraweeh Prayers
The end of the fasting month (Ramadan) is celebrated on the 1st day of the month of Shawwaal. This
festival is called Eid-ul-Fitr. Most Muslims will greet each other with the words “Eid Mubarak” on this day,
which is a traditional greeting that translates to “may you enjoy a blessed festival”. The greetings used
may vary from country to country. The day will start with a congregational prayer at a mosque; the
timings of these prayers will vary from place to place, but it is generally always in the early morning. This
information can be obtained from the local mosque in advance to notify the Muslim guests. It will be a
good gesture to consider providing transport for the guests to a nearby mosque for this prayer.
Eid-ul-Fitr and Prayers
Provide a prayer room in the hotel with space for both males and females. Make sure to identify the
prayer direction (Qiblah) in the room. If the room is large enough to accommodate many, consider
having the rows marked on the floor so that it may be easier for individuals to position themselves for
prayer.
Wudu, also known as ablution, is the cleansing ritual Muslims undergo before each prayer. This can be
done in the bathroom facilities of their hotel room, but it will be convenient if a restroom is available
near the provided congregational prayer room.
Identify the mosques in your surrounding area and compile a list of the mosques, their locations and
directions, and the language in which sermons are given. These lists can be provided to Muslim guests
of the hotel. HalalTrip.com and also its mobile App can help locate nearby Mosques in most locations.
Find a mosque near your hotel that offers sermons in English, Arabic and other languages and
consider providing transportation from the hotel to the mosque during the specific Taraweeh prayer
times.

29. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------27
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
In addition to the analysis of 50 countries, the MasterCard-CrescentRating Ramadan Report also
conducted an interview with Mr Hajj Muhsin Sierra from Visit Al Andalus who represents one of the
many Muslim travelers in Ramadan.
Below he shares his unique experience and reasons for travelling in Ramadan.
Interview
Can you share with us what was it like spending Ramadan in Spain as you were
growing up?
CrescentRating:
As I was growing up in Spain, my fasting experience began during the winter period.
This weather made it relatively easy to fast.
The situation in school was slightly challenging as I was surrounded by many friends
who were not fasting.
However I cherished the times when I would be breaking fast and have iftar in the
afternoons with my Muslim friends. These moments reminded me of how special
Ramadan is.
Mr Hajj Muhsin:
We understand that you are spending Ramadan in Malaysia this year and not in
Spain. Can you share with us the reasons for this change?
CrescentRating:
Initially in 2015, I was in Malaysia during Ramadan as part of my fisabilillah work to
build a new mosque in Saville.
However I have since fallen in love with the way Ramadan is celebrated in Malaysia.
Mr Hajj Muhsin:
Hajj Muhsin Sierra
Director
Visit Al Andalus
www.visit-alandalus.com

30. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Do you see this becoming an increasing trend for other Muslims as well to travel in
Ramadan?
CrescentRating:
Europe is now experiencing Ramadan during the summer season. This is the time
when the fasting periods are longer than usual.
Most of the people are also having their holidays during this period. With about 50
million Muslims in Europe this means that many Muslims will travel. This is even
more so in Ramadan with many Muslims travelling to different places. I find this
trend to be on the rise.
In the city of Granada where I come from, there a lot of people who journey to the
city to spend Ramadan with us despite the long fasting periods.
Some of them come from England which experiences a longer fasting period of
about 1.5 hours more than Granada, and so they like to travel and move around
during Ramadan in the summer.
Mr Hajj Muhsin:
Firstly, the fasting period is quite short in Malaysia. The weather is quite nice, and
so is the food.
The people in Malaysia are also very warm, humble and friendly. Hence I’ve chosen
Malaysia because I find that this destination contains many good qualities that I
was trying to find in a Muslim country.
Mr Hajj Muhsin:

31. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------29
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Data Sources
https://www.crescentrating.com/magazine
CrescentRating - Online Halal Lifestyle Magazine
https://www.halaltrip.com
HalalTrip
http://www.islamicfinder.org
Prayer Durations
http://vision2030.gov.sa/en
Saudi Vision 2030
https://www.crescentrating.com
MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim
Travel Index 2016
https://www.crescentrating.com/reports
Preparing your hotel for the month of Ramadan:
2nd edition
http://worldweather.wmo.int/en/home.html
Daytime Temperature Forecasts
MasterCard-CrescentRating
Global Muslim Travel Index 2016

32. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------30
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
Corporate Overview
About MasterCard
MasterCard is a technology company in the global payments industry. We are leading the way toward a world beyond cash
with the power to expand connectivity, opportunity and prosperity for individuals, businesses and communities.
We operate the world’s fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants,
governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. Our products and solutions make everyday
commerce activities - such as shopping, traveling, running a business, and managing finances - easier, more secure and more
efficient for everyone. Through our payment solutions, we deliver value and connect close to two billion
cardholders with tens of millions of merchants around the world.
As we move toward a world beyond cash, we are helping to secure a better, more inclusive future for everyone. We are
committed to continuing to use our technology and expertise to deliver better ways to pay, creating a more connected world.
About CrescentRating
CrescentRating is the world’s leading authority on Halal-friendly travel. The company’s vision is to lead, innovate and drive this
segment through practical and deliverable solutions in what is regarded today as one of the fastest growing segments in the
tourism sector. The company uses insight, industry intelligence, lifestyle, behavior and research on the needs of the Muslim
traveler to deliver authoritative guidance on all aspects of Halal-friendly travel to organizations across the globe.
Formed in 2008, CrescentRating services are now used by every tier of the tourism industry globally, from government bodies
and tourism agencies to hospitality service providers, to inform how they can meet and serve the needs of the Muslim
traveler. Its unique rating service, which combines detailed analysis, assessment and benchmarking, is now established as the
premier Halal friendly standard for the industry.
The primary aim of CrescentRating is to enable Muslim travelers to explore any part of the world with the satisfaction that their
needs and requirements are being met. CrescentRating’s services now include rating & accreditation, research & consultancy,
workshops & training, ranking & indices, event support/partnerships and content provision.
HalalTrip is a sister brand of CrescentRating.
About HalalTrip
HalalTrip’s vision is to be the trusted global online platform, catering for Muslim travelers to make inspired and educated
choices. It is the most comprehensive and innovative platform with its next generation mobile app. It makes destination
discovery and trip planning fun and more intuitive for those looking for a Halal-friendly travel experience.
About Muslim Travel Warehouse
It the world's 1st global B2B travel aggregator offering Halal-friendly tourism packages, excursions and activities. It provides
suppliers and travel agencies with a single platform for the growing Halal travel market. The travel agents will have access to
comprehensive search and booking capabilities on a full portfolio of Muslim-friendly products.

33. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------31
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
www.crescentrating.com
MasterCard-CrescentRating
Ramadan Travel Report
2016
www.crescentrating.com/reports/halal-travel-glossary.html
The World’s First-ever Halal Travel Glossary
MasterCard-CrescentRating
Global Muslim Travel Index 2015
By MasterCard & CrescentRating
Download Reports
MasterCard-CrescentRating
Ramadan Travel Report
By MasterCard & CrescentRating
June 2016
MasterCard-CrescentRating
Global Muslim Travel Index 2016
By MasterCard & CrescentRating
March 2016
MasterCard-CrescentRating
Muslim Travel Shopping Index 2015
By MasterCard & CrescentRating
mtsi.crescentrating.com/mastercard-crescentrating-muslim-
travel-shopping-index-2015-mtsi2015.html
MasterCard-CrescentRating Muslim Travel Shopping Index 2015
gmti.crescentrating.com/mastercard-crescentrating-global-
muslim-travel-index-2015-gmti2015.html
MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index 2015
www.crescentrating.com/reports/mastercard-crescentrating-
global-muslim-travel-index-gmti-2016.html
The 2nd release of the annual report, GMTI 2016 is the most comprehensive research done on the
Halal/Muslim travel, tourism and hospitality market. A collaboration between MasterCard and
CrescentRating, it analyses 130 destinations across the globe to create an Index to benchmark
destinations in the Muslim Travel Market.
The MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index 2015 is the first comprehensive research on
the Muslim travel market and uses in-depth data to explain how Muslim travel is impacting the worldwide
travel market.
The Muslim Travel Shopping Index 2015 contains a detailed analysis of the best shopping destinations
for Muslim travellers, while providing a fascinating look at the behavioural trends and patterns of
Muslim shoppers.
CrescentRating, the world’s leading authority on Halal travel, has published this new guide which
promotes accurate and consistent use of terms in the Halal travel market. Over 150 terms and
concepts have been entered and validated with regular updates planned as the market matures.
MasterCard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index 2016
FIRST EDITION
August 2015
By
CrescentRating
BASIC CONCEPTS, TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
The World's Leading Authority on Halal Travel
Connecting you to the Muslim Traveller
MUSLIM / HALAL
TRAVEL MARKET
MUSLIM / HALAL
TRAVEL MARKET
BASIC CONCEPTS, TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
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MasterCard-CrescentRating - Ramadan Travel Report
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36. Presented By
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