COMPONENT VALIDATION OF HALAL TOURISM INDEX USING FUZZY SET THEORY

Source abstract

Halal tourism has rapidly emerged as a significant sector in the global travel industry, driven by the growing Muslim population worldwide and increasing demand for travel experiences that align with religious, ethical, and cultural requirements. There is a need for a structured framework that aims at certifying destinations as compliant with halal tourism standards rather than focusing solely on Muslim-traveller preferences destinations, as is the case with Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI). This study systematically identifies and validates the critical factors that sustain a halal tourism ecosystem, with particular emphasis on regulatory governance and a safe environment from Islamophobia. The consensus was obtained from 25 experts to ensure reliability and contextual relevance using the fuzzy Delphi method. Findings highlight that robust regulatory frameworks and proactive governance are essential for standardizing halal certification and service quality, while measures addressing safety from Islamophobia are crucial for fostering social acceptance and psychological security among Muslim travellers. These insights provide practical guidance for policymakers, tourism authorities, and industry stakeholders seeking to enhance the credibility, inclusivity, and sustainability of halal tourism destinations, offering a novel contribution that extends beyond the scope of existing indices.