Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT) - November 2023

As we move closer to the year-end holiday season, the Muslim Travel Intent Trend (MTIT) score continues to reveal Muslim consumers' evolving travel preferences and intentions. In this analysis, we delve into the MTIT score for November 2023, shedding light on the intricate factors and emerging trends that shape the choices and desires of travelers within the world of Muslim-friendly travel.

You can read the Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT) reports for the other months here

Analyzing the MTIT Score for November 2023

The MTIT (Muslim Travel Intent Trend) score for November 2023 is 77.1. To understand this score comprehensively, it's crucial to compare it with the growth from previous months and the same period in the previous year. 

Growth Compared to Previous Months

The MTIT score for November 2023 reflects a slight increase compared to the previous month, October 2023, where the score was 75.7. This uptick indicates a modest rise in travel intent among Muslim consumers as they transition into the holiday season.

Comparison with the Same Period 

In contrast to November 2023, the MTIT score for the same period in November 2021 was 75.8, which signifies a higher travel intent in November 2023. The gradual improvement in the global pandemic has instilled greater confidence among travelers.

Seasonal Transitions 

Seasonal transitions have marked the journey to the November 2023 MTIT score. As October transitions into November, travelers often begin planning for end-of-year holidays, including winter vacations and family gatherings. This transition naturally spurs an increase in travel intent as individuals and families look forward to quality time together and seek new experiences during the holiday season.

Implications for December

Predictions for December 2023 suggest continuing this trend, with travelers seeking holiday celebrations, family reunions, cultural experiences, and religious observance. Businesses in the travel industry should prepare for increased demand during December and tailor their offerings accordingly to meet the diverse needs of Muslim travelers during this festive and meaningful season.

Intent to Travel "This Month" Trends

Steadily Increasing

Intent to travel in November 2023 (51%) shows a steadily increasing trend in the past three months. This upswing suggests a modest rise in travel intent as individuals gear up for end-of-year holidays and festive celebrations. Comparing November 2023 to November 2021, the intent to travel remains relatively stable. In November 2021, the score was 51.8%, indicating a similar level of travel intent among respondents during this period.

Prediction for the Coming Months

• December 2023: Given the holiday season and the festive spirit surrounding December, it is anticipated that the intent to travel within the current month will increase. Travelers often seek holiday getaways, family reunions, and cultural celebrations during this period.
• January 2024: January typically sees increased travel intent due to New Year celebrations and winter vacations. Many travelers plan trips to destinations with winter activities, warm getaways, or cultural festivities.
• February 2024: Typically, February does see a decrease in travel intent compared to January, especially in regions with colder climates. The post-holiday period and winter weather can lead to many individuals' natural decline in travel plans.

Analyzing Relative Travel Intent by Month

There are no significant changes to the radar chart based on historical data from MTIT to compare travel intent across each month. The chart shows each month's travel intent relative to December, which has the highest intent.

Traveling in the Next 1-3 Months (December 2023 to February 2024)

Peak Travel Intent

The travel intent data for November 2023, with a robust score of 24.3%, provides significant insights into respondents' immediate travel plans. Notably, November 2023 is remarkable within the 1 to 3-month timeframe, displaying a notable surge in travel enthusiasm. This increase in intent indicates active preparations for immediate travel experiences.

Key Observations:

• High Travel Intent: November 2023 showcases a notable travel intent percentage, suggesting that a significant portion of respondents is actively planning trips for the immediate future. This trend aligns with the holiday season and the desire for year-end getaways.

Strategic Takeaways:

• Leverage Holiday Season: Recognize that December is a prime holiday season with travelers seeking festive experiences and family reunions. Businesses should tailor their offerings to cater to these needs, such as holiday-themed packages, winter wonderland escapes, and cultural celebrations.
• Early Booking Incentives: Encourage travelers to plan by offering early booking incentives and discounts for trips in December 2023 and early 2024. Providing cost-saving opportunities can motivate individuals to finalize their travel plans.
• Family-Friendly Packages: Given the holiday season, emphasize family-friendly travel packages that include activities suitable for all ages. Offer convenience and memorable experiences for families traveling together.

Traveling in the Next 4-6 Months (March 2024 to May 2024)

Declining Travel Intent

November 2023 shows a decrease in travel intent after 3 to 6 months. The score of 7.9% suggests a lower percentage of respondents planning trips in this timeframe compared to previous months. Compared to the travel intent score for the same period in November 2021, which was 9.4%, we can observe a noticeable decrease in travel intent over the two years. This decline from 9.4% in November 2021 to 7.9% in November 2023 suggests decreasing interest in planning trips for the upcoming 3 to 6 months.

Factors Affecting the Decline:

• Holiday Season Focus: The focus during November often shifts towards the holiday season and preparations for year-end celebrations. Many prioritize immediate plans to visit family and friends during these holidays, leading to a temporary decline in longer-term travel planning.
• Work and School Commitments: Work and school schedules can significantly influence travel planning. Many individuals may hesitate to plan trips for the spring and early summer months due to work commitments and the school calendar, which can limit their availability during this period.
• Reduced Immediate Motivation: With immediate holiday plans taking precedence, travelers may temporarily shift their focus away from planning longer-term trips. The motivation to explore spring and early summer travel options might decrease during the holiday season.

MTIT Destination Preference

Saudi Arabia and UAE emerge as the top destinations mentioned in the MTIT November 2023 survey. The choice of Saudi Arabia aligns with its religious significance, offering year-round pilgrimage opportunities, while the UAE's appeal lies in its blend of cultural richness, business opportunities, and accessibility. Additionally, November is a transitional month when travelers start planning for the festive season and year-end celebrations. These factors and the safety and security assurances offered by both countries further solidify their position as top destinations in the survey results.

Conclusion

The November 2023 MTIT score of 77.1 indicates a notable travel intent among Muslim consumers during this period. Overall, the November 2023 MTIT score suggests a stable and slightly improved travel intent among Muslim consumers compared to the previous month and the same period in the previous year. This could be attributed to the anticipation of holiday season travel, cultural or religious events, and a potentially improving travel landscape. Businesses in the travel industry should consider these trends when planning their offerings and marketing strategies for November 2023, catering to Muslim travelers' travel preferences and expectations during this timeframe.