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Challenges of brands utilising Islamic values over formal certification in Muslim-friendly tourism

Yahya, Bushroh and Ruzulan, Zulaipa and Tumiran, Mohd Amzari and Jamaludin, Mohammad Aizat and Yusof, Kamarul Salam and Saidin, Nurulaina (2026) Challenges of brands utilising Islamic values over formal certification in Muslim-friendly tourism. Quantum Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (QJSSH), 7 (2). pp. 132-141. E-ISSN 2716-6481

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Abstract

Muslim-friendly tourism has been able to take its place as a major part of global tourism due to the growth of Muslim travel demand and the rise in halal-orientated services, as well as awareness of halal. Despite this progress, the conflict between Islamic values-based branding and strict halal or Shariah-compliant certification usage remains significant. The primary aim of this research is to investigate the challenges that companies face when they apply Islamic principles to Muslim-friendly tourism without obtaining formal certification. This study pursues a narrative review method to dissect academic conversations about Islamic-orientated branding and the certification of Muslim-friendly tourism. The results show several challenges of brands utilising Islamic values over formal certification in Muslim-friendly tourism, including: (a) consumer scepticism and perceived greenwashing; (b) inconsistency in service delivery and guest expectations; (c) difficulty in differentiating from competitors in crowded markets; (d) higher vulnerability to negative publicity and crises; and (e) limited access to institutional and governmental support. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that reliance on Islamic value-based branding without formal certification presents multidimensional challenges for brands operating in Muslim-friendly tourism.

Item Type: Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords: Muslim-friendly tourism, Islamic values, halal certification, Shariah-compliant branding, tourism branding challenges
Subjects: BPG Islamic geography > BPG87 Islamic tourism. Halal issues
BPH Islamic Economics > BPH114 Consumption. Halal issues
BPH Islamic Economics > BPH117 Consumption. Halal issues. Standards. Certification. Halal status
BPH Islamic Economics > BPH117.5 Halal Education, Halal Training
BPN Islamic art and architecture > BPN87 Muslim friendly and halal services
H Social Sciences > HF Commerce > HF5475.I74 Halal business, entrepreneur, marketing, management, and administration
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): International Institute for Halal Research and Training (INHART)
Depositing User: Dr. Mohammad Aizat Jamaludin
Date Deposited: 13 May 2026 17:19
Last Modified: 13 May 2026 17:26
Queue Number: 2026-05-Q3277
URI: http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/128900

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