Discover Australia as Cheria Holiday Promotes Halal Tourism for Indonesian Travelers

Australia has emerged as a leading player in the global halal tourism market, with its increasing commitment to creating Muslim-friendly destinations. As part of this strategy, major Australian cities invest in halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities, and Muslim-friendly attractions. This initiative aims to cater to the rising number of Muslim travelers, especially from Indonesia, a key market for Australian tourism.

Related: Beyond Halal: The Art of Culinary Excellence in Australian Resorts

A Growing Focus on Halal Tourism

Tourism Australia has intensified its efforts to attract Muslim travelers by launching official partnerships with leading travel agencies. One such collaboration is with Cheria Holiday, a pioneer in halal tourism for Indonesian tourists. Together, they offer curated travel packages that ensure Muslim travelers can enjoy a seamless experience while adhering to their religious practices.

According to Travel Daily Media, Australia welcomed 213,000 Indonesian tourists in 2023, contributing an impressive A$1.1 billion to the economy. This marks a 26% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, underscoring the growing appeal of Australia as a Muslim-friendly destination.

The 2021 census revealed that 3.2% of Australia’s population, or approximately 813,392 people, identify as Muslim. This represents a significant rise from 1.7% in 2016, making Islam the second-largest religion in the country. This growing Muslim population has spurred efforts to integrate halal services and facilities into Australia’s tourism infrastructure, ensuring a welcoming environment for visitors from Islamic countries.

Indonesia: A Key Market for Australian Tourism

Indonesia has consistently ranked among Australia’s top five tourism markets. Agitya Nuraini, Country Manager of Tourism Australia for Indonesia, highlighted that Indonesian tourists play a vital role in Australia’s post-pandemic recovery.

“About 80% of Indonesia’s middle class is Muslim, and they have a strong interest in exploring Australia’s unique culture and landscapes,” she stated. With a high discretionary income and a growing appetite for travel, Indonesians are increasingly drawn to destinations that offer authentic experiences while accommodating their religious needs.

Popular destinations among Indonesian tourists include:

• Sydney: Known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney also offers a range of halal-certified dining options and mosques.

• Melbourne: With its vibrant cultural scene, halal-friendly restaurants, and prayer facilities, Melbourne is a favorite among Muslim travelers.

• Gold Coast: Famous for its beaches and theme parks, the Gold Coast also provides Muslim-friendly facilities, making it a family-friendly destination.

• Perth: Close to Indonesia, Perth boasts a variety of halal dining options and prayer spaces.

Cheria Holiday: A Pioneer in Halal Tourism

Since its establishment in 2012, Cheria Holiday has been at the forefront of halal tourism, offering tailored packages to various global destinations, including Australia. The agency’s CEO, Cheriatna, expressed optimism about the collaboration with Tourism Australia.

“Australia is becoming increasingly serious about presenting Muslim-friendly destinations. The growing number of halal-certified restaurants and mosques ensures that Muslim travelers feel at home while exploring the country,” he remarked during a press conference in South Jakarta.

Australia’s commitment to halal tourism extends beyond dining and prayer facilities. The country offers a range of experiences tailored to Muslim travelers, such as:

1. Halal Dining: Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane now feature a diverse array of halal-certified restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.

2. Prayer Spaces: Most major airports, shopping centers, and attractions have designated prayer rooms to accommodate Muslim visitors.

3. Cultural Sensitivity: Tour operators and hospitality staff are increasingly trained to understand the needs of Muslim travelers, ensuring respectful and inclusive experiences.

4. Halal-Friendly Attractions: From wildlife sanctuaries to guided tours, many attractions now offer packages that align with Islamic principles.

Indonesian travelers are drawn to Australia for its unique blend of modernity and nature. Here are some reasons why Australia is a top choice for halal tourism:

• Proximity: Direct flights between major Indonesian cities and Australian destinations make travel convenient.

• Diverse Experiences: From bustling cities to serene beaches, Australia offers something for every type of traveler.

• Muslim-Friendly Environment: With halal-certified services and a welcoming atmosphere, Indonesian tourists feel at ease while exploring.

• Educational and Cultural Exchange: Many Indonesian families combine leisure with learning by visiting Australia’s world-class universities and cultural landmarks.

• Year-Round Appeal: With mild weather and seasonal attractions, Australia is a year-round destination for tourists from tropical countries like Indonesia.

Halal-Friendly Experiences in Australia

Australia offers a plethora of unique experiences for Muslim travelers. Some standout activities include:

1. Exploring the Blue Mountains: A UNESCO World Heritage site near Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer stunning landscapes and opportunities for eco-friendly tourism.

2. Great Barrier Reef Adventures: For nature lovers, exploring the world’s largest coral reef system is a must.

3. Wildlife Encounters: Visit sanctuaries to see kangaroos, koalas, and other native species while enjoying Muslim-friendly guided tours.

4. Shopping in Melbourne: The city is known for its vibrant markets, many of which now feature halal-certified food stalls.

5. Cruises and Coastal Tours: Explore Australia’s coastline with cruises that cater to halal dining requirements.

Technology in Halal Tourism

The rise of technology has further boosted halal tourism in Australia. Mobile apps and websites now make it easier for Muslim travelers to:

• Locate halal-certified restaurants and prayer spaces.

• Book packages tailored to their needs.

• Access real-time information about Muslim-friendly attractions.

Tourism Australia has also launched digital campaigns targeting Indonesian travelers, using platforms like Instagram and YouTube to showcase the country’s halal offerings.

The growing focus on halal tourism has brought significant economic benefits to Australia. Indonesian tourists alone contributed over A$1.1 billion in 2023, with experts predicting continued growth in the coming years. This surge in spending not only supports local businesses but also fosters cultural exchange and understanding.

Additionally, the demand for halal services has encouraged the growth of small businesses such as halal caterers, tour guides, and specialty food producers. This growth has created new job opportunities, contributing to local economies and enhancing the multicultural fabric of Australia.

Insights from Muslim Travelers

Muslim travelers visiting Australia often share glowing reviews about their experiences. Many highlight the ease of finding halal food, the availability of prayer spaces, and the warm hospitality they receive. For example, Aisha Rahman, a frequent traveler from Jakarta, mentioned, “I loved how Australia catered to my needs as a Muslim traveler. From mosques in the city to halal-certified dining options, everything was well thought out.”

Another traveler, Yusuf Ahmad from Surabaya, praised the family-friendly activities, saying, “My kids enjoyed visiting wildlife parks and theme parks. It’s reassuring to know we could find halal meals wherever we went.”

The Halal Tourism Ecosystem

Australia’s halal tourism ecosystem is expanding to include a variety of services and products beyond traditional travel. This includes:

1. Halal-Friendly Accommodations: Hotels offering halal-certified kitchens and amenities like prayer mats and Qibla directions.

2. Educational Tours: Programs that combine sightseeing with learning opportunities about Australia’s Indigenous cultures and Islamic heritage.

3. Community Events: Festivals and events celebrating Islamic culture, such as Eid celebrations and halal food fairs.

4. Luxury Experiences: High-end tour operators now offer exclusive packages for Muslim travelers, including private guided tours and luxury halal cruises.

Halal Tourism in Australia

The partnership between Tourism Australia and Cheria Holiday signifies a promising future for halal tourism in the country. With growing demand and continued investments in Muslim-friendly infrastructure, Australia is well-positioned to become a leading destination for halal travel.

Tourism Australia’s focus on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity reflects a broader global trend of catering to diverse traveler needs. For Indonesian tourists, this means more opportunities to explore the Land Down Under without compromising their values.

Moreover, collaborations with other countries in the Asia-Pacific region could further enhance Australia’s halal tourism offerings. Sharing best practices, co-hosting events, and joint marketing campaigns can attract even more Muslim travelers to Australia.

Planning Your Halal Trip to Australia

For Indonesian travelers considering a visit to Australia, Cheria Holiday offers a range of packages tailored to meet halal requirements. These include:

• Customizable itineraries featuring halal-certified accommodations and dining options.

• Access to prayer facilities at all major destinations.

• Family-friendly activities that align with Islamic values.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Melbourne, taking in the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, or enjoying the thrill of theme parks on the Gold Coast, Australia has something for everyone.

Australia’s commitment to halal tourism and its breathtaking landscapes and world-class attractions make it an ideal destination for Indonesian travelers. Through strategic partnerships with agencies like Cheria Holiday and continued investments in Muslim-friendly facilities, the Land Down Under is setting a benchmark for inclusivity in global tourism.

With its vibrant cities, rich culture, and natural beauty, Australia offers a truly unforgettable experience for Muslim travelers. Start planning your halal adventure to Australia today and experience a destination that truly understands and respects the needs of Muslim travelers.