Thailand Islamic Journal

Muslim-Friendly Luxury Travel in Thailand: Redefining High-Value Tourism through Cultural Sensitivity and Service Innovation

2025-05-27T09:15:48+07:00

Abstract

As the global Muslim travel market is projected to exceed USD 225 billion by 2028, the intersection between faith-based needs and luxury tourism experiences is gaining scholarly attention. However, limited research explores how emerging destinations, such as Thailand, can design Muslim-friendly luxury travel experiences that appeal to high-value tourists seeking both religious alignment and premium comfort. This study addresses this gap by examining how cultural sensitivity and service innovation can reshape Thailand’s tourism offerings to attract affluent Muslim travelers. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with Muslim tourists and luxury service providers, the research identifies critical elements in delivering high-value, culturally attuned travel experiences. Findings reveal that personalized halal-certified services, inclusive space design, staff cultural competency, and value-driven storytelling are key drivers of satisfaction and loyalty in this niche market. The study introduces an integrative framework that connects Islamic hospitality principles with luxury tourism strategies, offering a roadmap for tourism stakeholders in Southeast Asia to reposition their services. This paper contributes to the literature by introducing a novel conceptualization of “Muslim-Friendly Luxury,” which merges spiritual compatibility with experiential innovation, thereby redefining what high-value tourism means in a multicultural and globalized context.

A Model for Promoting Muslim-Friendly Tourism in Thailand

2025-05-27T09:39:35+07:00

Abstract

Muslim-friendly tourism has emerged as a rapidly growing trend in the global tourism industry, particularly in Thailand, which possesses significant potential to attract Muslim tourists from around the world. This academic article analyzes the trends, potential, and challenges associated with the development of Muslim-friendly tourism in Thailand. Using a literature review methodology, the study synthesizes credible academic sources to propose strategic approaches for promoting this emerging tourism segment. The findings introduce the HALAL Model, an integrated conceptual framework comprising five key components: H – Hospitality, emphasizing respectful and culturally sensitive service; A – Accessibility, ensuring the provision of religious facilities such as prayer rooms and Qibla indicators; L – Lifestyle Compatibility, promoting tourism activities aligned with Islamic principles; A – Authentic Halal Food, advocating internationally certified halal food standards; and L – Learning and Communication, fostering intercultural understanding through education and effective communication.This model serves as a strategic tool to guide policy-making and service development that effectively address the unique needs of Muslim tourists, while positioning Thailand as a leading regional hub for Muslim-friendly tourism in Asia customers.

Islamic Finance: Principles, Practices and Role in the Global Economy

2025-05-27T09:36:46+07:00

Abstract

Islamic finance is a financial system predicated on the principles of Shariah (Islamic law), which prohibits the charging of interest (Riba), encourages risk-sharing, and promotes ethical and religiously compliant investments. This system offers a diverse range of financial instruments, such as Murabaha (a transparent cost-plus-profit sale contract), Musharakah (an equity partnership with profit and loss sharing), Sukuk (Islamic bonds), and Qard Hasan (benevolent, interest-free loans for social welfare). These instruments play a significant role in global economic development, particularly in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe. The Islamic banking sector has demonstrated continuous growth and has gained international recognition from organizations such as the World Bank and the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB). Islamic finance is instrumental in fostering a sustainable economy, reducing inequality, and supporting ethical business practices. Nevertheless, it faces challenges related to regulatory frameworks, integration with conventional financial markets, and the general understanding among investors. An analysis indicates that Islamic finance possesses high potential as an alternative to the conventional economic system. Key principles supporting its integration include: the equitable sharing of risk, which helps mitigate market volatility; the principle of real asset-backed investment, which prevents financial bubbles; and a consideration for social and environmental impacts, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals. Critical development mechanisms consist of establishing a legal infrastructure to accommodate Islamic financial instruments, creating accepted international standards to enhance investor confidence, and developing a workforce with specialized expertise in Islamic finance. The anticipated outcome is the creation of a financial system that is resilient, transparent, and sustainable, capable of strengthening financial stability and promoting inclusive economic growth across all segments of society.

Pondok in the City: Biopower and the Everyday Life of Thai Muslim Student

2025-05-19T13:11:40+07:00

Abstract

When the Pondok-a traditional Islamic boarding school once rooted in rural spaces-moves into the heart of Bangkok, the lives of its students inevitably shift. This qualitative research explores the everyday experiences of students at a Pondok school located in Huai Khwang district, using participant observation, in-depth interviews, and contextual analysis of the school’s social and cultural surroundings. Findings reveal the complexity of being a “Pondok student in the city,” where religious discipline intersects with urban modernity. The school offers structured routines and modern facilities while maintaining strict adherence to Islamic teachings. From pre-dawn prayers to evening religious lessons, students follow tightly scheduled daily routines that gradually shape their behavior-so much so that these routines persist even when no one is watching. This study draws on Michel Foucault’s concept of biopower to explain how the school’s authority is not enforced through overt control, but rather embedded within the students’ everyday habits and internalized discipline. At the same time, many Pondok students in the city are beginning to envision new futures for themselves-not only in the hereafter, but also in the modern world-while holding firmly to their faith.

A Study on the Differences in Motivation and Online Purchasing Behavior between Male and Female Muslim Consumers in Thailand.

2025-04-22T11:27:34+07:00

Abstract

The rapid expansion of e-commerce has transformed consumer purchasing behavior globally, with online shopping gaining significant traction among Thai consumers. Among these, Muslim consumers represent a unique segment whose purchasing decisions are shaped by both general consumer behavior factors and religious-cultural considerations. This study addresses this gap by examining the utilitarian and hedonic motivations of Muslim consumers in Thailand and their influence on online purchasing behavior, with a focus on gender differences. Using an Independent Samples Test, significant differences were found in both hedonic and utilitarian motivations between male and female consumers, with women exhibiting higher levels of both motivational drivers. Additionally, women demonstrated significantly higher levels of online purchasing behavior compared to men. Multiple Regression Analysis revealed that hedonic motivation significantly influenced online purchasing behavior for both genders, while utilitarian motivation had no significant impact. Hedonic motivation explained 8.9% and 12.4% of the variance in online purchasing behavior for male and female consumers, respectively, highlighting its role as a key driver. However, the relatively low explanatory power suggests the need to explore additional factors influencing this behavior.

Guidelines for Developing Standards for Exporting Halal Thai Poultry Products for Thai Entrepreneurs to Saudi Arabia After the Restoration of Thai-Saudi Relations

2025-04-22T10:36:32+07:00

Abstract

This research was conducted with the following four key objectives: (1) to explore the various regulatory standards governing the export of poultry products from Thai enterprises to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in accordance with Saudi import regulations (2) to investigate the halal production processes employed by Thai poultry producers for exports destined for the Saudi market (3) to analyze the opportunities, challenges, competitive advantages, and trade potential of Thai halal poultry products in Saudi Arabia; and (4) to develop strategic recommendations for enhancing Thailand’s halal poultry export standards to be fully aligned with Saudi Arabia’s import requirements.

The study adopted a qualitative research methodology, utilizing in-depth interviews with scholars, subject matter experts, and business operators who have experience exporting poultry products from Thailand to Saudi Arabia.

Moreover, this research underscores the importance of identifying emerging trade opportunities and leveraging Thailand’s unique product strengths—namely, its reputation for high-quality production and robust food safety practices. These elements can serve as key drivers in formulating a strategic framework for advancing the standards of Thai halal poultry exports, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in the global marketplace

Guidelines for Enhancing the Quality of Accommodation Services Provided by Thai Hajj Operators

2025-05-01T12:20:52+07:00

Abstract

This study aims to explore approaches for improving the quality of accommodation services provided by Thai Hajj business operators. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The sample consisted of 400 Thai Muslim pilgrims who performed the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia in 2024. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with five executives from Hajj business operations. Descriptive statistics used included frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Inferential statistics involved multiple regression analysis, and qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

The results of the research showed that 7P Marketing Mix’ This affects the improvement of the quality of Hajj services of Hajj operators. Significantly at the statistical level of 0.05 Ethics and leadership of entrepreneurs affect the improvement of the quality of Hajj services of Hajj operators. It was found that the ethics of entrepreneurs and leadership It has a significant value of 0.000, affecting the improvement of the quality of Hajj services of Hajj operators. The results of the qualitative analysis show that the management is worried about the cost of the trip because the price of products is currently higher and most of the executives are always improving and developing their own business to be modern and able to accommodate customers