Travel intent is a barometer for understanding the tourism industry and predicting consumer behavior within the next six months. The MTIT November 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. With a score of 78.3, it demonstrates a slight decline in Muslim travel intent in comparison to last month. November is relatively laid-back, as the holiday season of December emerges, where people can still take advantage of the off-peak season.
You can read the Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT) reports for the other months here.
The MTIT score for November 2024 stands at 78.3, reflecting a slight dip from October’s 79.9 as travel intent begins to ease in line with seasonal trends. This marginal decline is typical for November, a transitional period before the holiday surge in December. Despite this, the score remains significantly higher than the fluctuating first-quarter figures, highlighting consistent growth in travel sentiment throughout the year. The slight decrease may also indicate a shift towards winter travel planning or a temporary pause as travelers await festive opportunities in December, which is likely to see a renewed spike in travel interest.
November’s MTIT score of 78.3 marks a slight dip in travel intent, aligning with the typical low-peak season as travelers pause before the December holiday rush. This decline reflects a shift toward shorter, budget-friendly trips or off-season destinations with fewer crowds. Despite the drop from October’s 79.9, international events have likely sustained travel interest by attracting global audiences. Additionally, the ongoing Umrah season in Saudi Arabia continues to draw significant numbers of Muslim travelers, particularly from regions where off-season travel coincides with religious tourism opportunities. These events demonstrate how cultural, industry, and religious gatherings can collectively drive travel even during quieter periods.
The low-peak season also appeals to budget-conscious travelers, including Muslims who prefer traveling for Umrah outside the busy Hajj season to avoid high costs and larger crowds. Discounted accommodations, cheaper flights, and the peaceful environment of religious sites during this period enhanced its appeal. While the November score remains steady compared to earlier months, it suggests travelers may be conserving resources and planning for December’s festivities, where both family-oriented trips and religious celebrations are expected to boost travel intent significantly.
The MTIT (Muslim Travel Index Tracker) indicates a 5.9% decline in November, with only 44.6% of Muslims intending to travel. This figure is among the lowest this year, closely aligning with March (44.7%) and January (44.1%). November is likely a seasonal transition, acting as a lull period between the vibrant fall travel season and the busy end-of-year holidays. Travel fatigue from October’s fall festivals, which often deplete consumer budgets and energy, further dampens travel intent. Additionally, many travelers are postponing plans for the major end-of-year holiday season, making November trips less appealing.
Strategic Takeaways:
This November, the travel intent among Muslim travelers within the next three months (December 2024 to February 2025) has reached its highest point this year at 30.2%, slightly surpassing its peak in August (30.1%). This marks a steady increase from October’s 27.8% travel intent, driven by the anticipation of the upcoming major holiday season. As the shoulder season comes to an end, there is growing enthusiasm for travel during the winter months, particularly for New Year’s celebrations. The cooler temperatures in Saudi Arabia and lower travel costs make this an ideal time for religious pilgrims. While the start of 2025 may see a slight dip in travel intent due to post-holiday fatigue and financial recovery, steady demand will be sustained by travel to warm-weather destinations and business purposes, followed by early spring travel planning and vacation bookings. This trend underscores a shift towards off-season and shoulder-season travel, with Muslim travelers taking advantage of milder climates and budget-friendly options that allow for both religious and seasonal experiences.
Strategic Takeaways:
For November 2024, the intent to travel among Muslim travelers from March to May is 8.8%, indicating a slight increase compared to October’s intent (7.6%). This suggests that, while travel interest in the long term remains lower than the rest of the year, there is a growing sense of anticipation, driven by the unique blend of religious, seasonal, and cultural observances. Noting that Ramadan is approaching in March and followed by Eid-al-Fitr celebrations, many people will plan trips to reunite with family for special gatherings or plan for religious pilgrimage. Additionally, spring break travels will contribute to a notable rise in interest for destinations offering cultural experiences and outdoor activities, especially, as the weather gets warmer.
Strategic Takeaways:
In November 2024, the Muslim Travel Index Tracker (MTIT) highlights Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico as the top three destinations for Muslim travelers.
Indonesia remains a top destination for Muslim travelers in November, offering a blend of Islamic heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and cooler weather in certain regions. The country's commitment to halal tourism is evident in its availability of halal-certified food, prayer facilities, and Muslim-friendly accommodations across popular destinations like Bali, Lombok, and Yogyakarta. Additionally, events like the Borobudur International Marathon 2024 (November 17) in Central Java not only attract international participants but also showcase the cultural significance of Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its warm hospitality and quieter atmosphere during the shoulder season, Indonesia provides a perfect setting for Muslim families and travelers seeking both leisure and spiritual enrichment.
Saudi Arabia holds its position as a leading destination for Muslim travelers, particularly during the ongoing Umrah season in November. Pilgrims flock to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina for religious rites, with Saudi authorities streamlining services to ensure a serene experience. Beyond Umrah, the country promotes cultural tourism through initiatives like Diriyah Gate and Al-Ahsa Oasis, offering a blend of spirituality and historical exploration. As cooler weather sets in, travelers also enjoy the country’s natural wonders, such as the Red Sea coastline and desert adventures, while benefiting from its robust halal infrastructure.
Mexico emerges as an increasingly attractive destination for Muslim travelers, thanks to growing efforts in inclusivity and the availability of halal dining options in major cities like Mexico City and Cancún. Known for its vibrant culture, breathtaking beaches, and historical sites, Mexico’s appeal extends to travelers seeking a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. November is an ideal time to visit, as the weather is milder and post-Día de Muertos festivities continue to offer rich cultural experiences. Mexico should improve its Muslim-friendly environment and further spread its facilities such as halal dining options and prayer spaces to popular tourist hotspots to accommodate the growing interests of Muslim travelers.
The November 2024 MTIT report underscores key trends of Muslim travel intent towards the end of the year. While this month’s score is at 78.3, this lull precedes an anticipated major holiday travel and religious journey by the end of the year. Short-term travel plans are finalized and heightened, in line with cultural and family-oriented experiences, aligning with the festive months ahead. Long-term intent reflects preparations for religious practices such as Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr celebrations. By catering to the unique demands of Muslim travelers across different seasons and destinations, travel businesses can create more targeted offerings to cater to Muslim travelers.
Read our collection of Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT) reports for different months here:
Discover more information regarding Muslim Travel Intent Tracker (MTIT), Halal food, Halal travel, Muslim-friendly recommendations, and mosques near me by downloading the HalalTrip Mobile App!
