Travel intent is a barometer for understanding the tourism industry and predicting consumer behavior within the next six months. The MTIT December 2024 report highlights the unique preferences of Muslim travelers and notes significant trends and factors that shape travel preferences in the world of Muslim-friendly travel. A score of 81.8 demonstrates a noticeable increase in Muslim travel intent compared to the previous month. December marks the beginning of the holiday season, offering opportunities for both festive celebrations and travel, with an emphasis on family-oriented destinations and experiences that cater to Muslim-friendly needs.
You can read the Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT) reports for the other months here.
The MTIT score for December 2024 stands at 81.8, marking a noticeable increase from November’s 78.3 as travel intent rises in tandem with the peak holiday season. This uptick reflects a surge in consumer behavior driven by the festive spirit, family vacations, and year-end travel opportunities. December’s score is one of the highest recorded in 2024, highlighting the growing momentum of Muslim-friendly travel options during this period. The increase also underscores strong demand for both domestic and international trips as travelers capitalize on school holidays, winter breaks, and religious or cultural festivities to reconnect with loved ones and explore destinations.
December’s MTIT score of 81.8 signals a significant boost in travel intent, driven primarily by the long school holidays that coincide with the holiday season. With children on extended breaks, families are taking advantage of this period to travel together, often with parents using their annual leave to plan vacations. This alignment of school holidays and year-end festivities has made December a prime time for family-oriented and group travel, as it allows families to spend quality time together while exploring destinations that cater to both leisure and religious needs.
The surge reflects increased participation in global winter events and year-end festivities, encouraging Muslim travelers to embrace unique seasonal experiences. Popular winter destinations with mild climates, discounted packages, and festive markets have amplified their appeal, offering both affordability and enjoyment. As the year concludes, the elevated travel sentiment underscores the importance of tailored travel experiences that align with faith, family, and cultural priorities, setting a positive outlook for Muslim-friendly tourism into the new year.
The MTIT (Muslim Travel Intent Tracker) shows a dramatic increase in December, with 56.3% of Muslims intending to travel. This marks the highest travel intent within the current month for 2024, reflecting the impact of year-end holidays, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. The sharp rise from November’s 44.6% to 54.6%, highlights December as a prime period for both domestic and international travel, driven by school vacations, winter activities, and and cultural tourism, including interfaith exchanges and celebrations. Many travelers capitalize on the opportunity to reconnect with family, explore Muslim-friendly destinations, and take advantage of seasonal travel packages.
Strategic Takeaways:
This December, the travel intent for Muslim travelers for the next three months (January 2025 to March 2025), dropped to 22.8%, showing a dip from November’s high of 30.2%. This decrease reflects a natural post-holiday dip, as many families shift their focus back to routine commitments, including the return to school or work after the winter holidays. Although financial recovery and routine obligations are influencing travel behavior at the start of the year, some might see this as an opportunity for Umrah as the cooler weather and reduced crowds continue to attract pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in January and February. This is expected to continue until spring as it coincides with the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, making it a favorable time for pilgrimage. As March approaches, travel intent is expected to persistently stay high, driven by early Ramadan travel planning and spring vacation bookings, as families begin preparing for school holidays and long weekends.
Strategic Takeaways:
On the other hand, the intent to travel among Muslims in the next 4 - 6 months (April 2025 to June 2025) has risen to 11.2%, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for travel during the mid-year months, driven by the convergence of Eid celebrations in April and the arrival of warmer weather. As Ramadan is expected to conclude in April, many travelers are expected to plan trips to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with family and friends, prioritizing destinations that cater to their religious and cultural needs, This period also marks the beginning of spring break in many regions, which likely fuels the demand for family-friendly vacations, cultural excursions, and outdoor adventures. By May and June, the shift towards summer vacation planning will further boost travel intent, particularly among those seeking longer, more leisurely trips.
Strategic Takeaways:
In December 2024, the Muslim Travel Index Tracker (MTIT) highlights China, the United States of America, and Indonesia as the top three destinations for Muslim travelers.
China
China emerges as a leading destination for Muslim travelers in December, offering a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, Islamic history, and diverse natural attractions. Cities like Xi'an, home to the historic Great Mosque, and Beijing, with its iconic landmarks, provide unique experiences blending spirituality and exploration. Regions like Xinjiang, where Islamic traditions are deeply rooted, also attract visitors seeking cultural and religious connections. The winter season enhances the appeal of destinations such as Harbin, famous for its International Ice and Snow Festival, which begins in late December. While China's halal dining and prayer facilities are concentrated in Muslim-majority areas, efforts to expand Muslim-friendly infrastructure continue to enhance its position as a favored destination.
United States
The United States stands out as a preferred destination for Muslim travelers in December, driven by its diverse winter attractions and inclusive travel experiences. Cities such as New York and Chicago showcase festive winter markets, iconic landmarks, and cultural activities that appeal to travelers of all backgrounds. For those seeking natural beauty, destinations like Colorado and Alaska offer scenic winter landscapes ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and other seasonal activities. Additionally, Muslim-friendly facilities, including halal restaurants and mosques, are widely available in metropolitan areas, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers. December’s holiday season also makes the U.S. a prime destination for families and tourists looking to experience both modern leisure and cultural enrichment.
Indonesia
Indonesia retains its position as a top destination for Muslim travelers in December, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and robust halal infrastructure. Popular locations like Bali, Bandung, and Lombok attract visitors with their mild weather, stunning landscapes, and family-friendly activities. December also marks the peak holiday season, with Muslim travelers flocking to Indonesia for its renowned hospitality, affordable luxury accommodations, and abundant halal-certified dining options. Events and year-end celebrations, paired with the country’s tranquil beaches and spiritual landmarks, make it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and cultural exploration during the festive period.
The December 2024 MTIT report highlights a significant surge in Muslim travel intent, driven by the peak holiday season, family-oriented travel, and the appeal of festive and cultural experiences. With China, the United States, and Indonesia emerging as the top destinations, travelers are seeking a blend of spirituality, leisure, and exploration in destinations that cater to their halal and cultural needs. The rise in December travel reflects strong consumer demand for winter activities, religious tourism, and extended family vacations while setting a promising tone for Muslim-friendly travel trends into 2025, particularly as preparations for Ramadan and Eid celebrations gain momentum in the months ahead.
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