AL Mirgab Sharjah United Arab Emirates
Ajman City Centre Ajman City Centre, Food court - Ajman United Arab Emirates
Al Khan Street, Al Qasba | Opp. Safeer Market, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Financial Centre Road | Dubai Mall, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
1 Al Zahir St Ajman United Arab Emirates
The time has come, ladies! Say hello to sun tanning by the beach, lounging by the pools, going for a good workout at the gym and winding down at the spa. And did we mention the endless outdoor activities and Halal cuisine all in one place? via GIPHY These female-only beach getaways were simply a dream back in those days. Today, women from all backgrounds, hijabi or not, can now experience being in their element in these female-only resorts and islands. In recent years, the travel industry has catered to the needs and wants of family travelers, solo travelers, and couples and now the time has arrived to cater to the new and upcoming market of women travelers. Image Credit: Nicola Fioravanti on Unsplash This is exceptionally exciting for Muslim women who cover and practice modesty the Islamic way. Time to get rid of those nasty hijab tan-lines and let the golden tan spread all over. Female only tourism will allow women to finally experience getaways in a way that could only dream of doing. From mental health, physical health and pure delight, here are 5 Reasons Why You Need To Give Yourself A Good Ol' Beach Getaway. 1. Soak In All That Vitamin D Image Credit: Jordan Wozniak on Unsplash Booking an all ladies experience can be a great time to allow your body to fuel up on Vitamin D. Letting your hair down and tanning in the sun can allow you to get that much needed Vitamin D which maintains the internal and external health of our bodies, from our bones, nervous system, lung system and so much more. 2. Be The Productive You Image Credit: Jacob Postuma on Unsplash We often forget the importance of relaxation, but practicing mindfulness, meditation and relaxation can be great benefits to our mental and physical health. Our busy lives filled with family, work, and responsibility will often strain our bodies and it’s not too long until our bodies start to ache and pain as a way to tell us to slow down, breathe and relax. It is healthier and more productive to relax and enjoy some me-time before you get to that critical stage. 3. Appreciating Others Image Credit: Ifrah Akhter on Unsplash Whether you are traveling with your family, friends or even just your little-self. It is undeniable that this new type of experience will be liberating. It would allow you to bond with sisters all around the world, whilst simultaneously absorbing in some sun, sea, and satisfaction. You can connect with those around you in a different way, without worrying too much about daily life concerns. 4. Invest In The Growing Market Image Credit: Christian Lambert on Unsplash Although, these types of holiday experiences are just starting to appear in the travel market. Muslim ladies showing their interest and appreciation of these types of resorts, spas, hotels, and all-ladies experiences, will allow more to appear all over the world, making them more affordable and accessible for the future. 5. Health Is Wealth Image Credit: Tim Goedhart on Unsplash You may have thought that this experience is a privilege or a splurge but these reasons have shown you why women need to experience halal female-only holidaying. Not only is it healthy for your mind, body, and soul but it’s great fun! It is important to remember this is a relatively new opening in the market and its popularity can only mean we will be blessed with many more options in the future. With that, we have a few recommendations for your next Halal beach getaway! Turkey Angel Marmaris Resort Image Credit: Angel Marmaris It’s not always guaranteed that resorts can offer a strip of beach for women only, often resorts focus on swimming pool and spa experiences. However, Angel Marmaris offer you the natural experience of swimming in the Azure seawater, giving you a chance to come in contact with the natural healing properties of aqua. All the rooms face out to the sea, giving you a beautiful view and depending on your budget, some rooms called villas with private pools are available. The Resort prides itself on not selling Alcohol a huge component to halal-holidaying. Website | Facebook | Instagram Wome Deluxe Image Credit: Wome Deluxe on Facebook A 5-star resort in Antalya, Turkey that includes a women’s only area within the grand resort. Private pools, a private beach, pergola, hammocks, and sun terraces, this option is great for family holidays or mixed group holidays, where the females can sneak off to enjoy women only deluxe me-time then rejoin their children, brothers or other males when they are done for the day. In case you were to forget you were in Turkey, the full authentic Turkish Hammam experience is available for women too! Website | Facebook | Instagram North Africa and the Middle East Sharjah Ladies Club Image Credit: Sharjah Ladies Club Dubai is a touristic Hub and Sharjah a 10 minutes drive from Dubai will transport you to another world. Countless massage, facials, spa treatments are available for every sort of problem you want to be treated. It is a club for people who live in Dubai but they have created tourist packages to allow you to enjoy the gym and fitness classes as well. Website | Facebook | Instagram Europe SuperShe Island Image Credit: SuperShe on Facebook Nestled in Scandinavia near to Finland is an 8.4-acre acre, exclusively private island. This experience is something else entirely with features spas, amenities, saunas, fitness classes, nature activity, farm to table dining and so much more. Supershe describes themselves as a 10 person island with 4 renovated cabins, meaning if you ever wanted to truly feel like you were alone in the world then this is the place to be. Let the Supershe abandoned on island luxury experience begin! Website | Facebook | Instagram Southeast Asia Pooltara Resort Krabi Image Credit: Pooltara Resort Krabi on Facebook Nestled in a rural fertile land of Krabi, Pooltara Resort was initially built as a family vacation home in 1993. Today, the area has evolved into a 10-rai vacation getaway for travelers from all over the world. Operated by women, the resort is surrounded by the trees that were carefully planted and nurtured by the family. At Pooltara Resort, the Halal menu will be specially catered and cooked by the local Muslim community of Krabi for Muslim guests. Website | Facebook | Instagram via GIPHY There you have it, ladies, there is something for everyone. Now that you’ve been let into this rising holiday secret, go ahead and book what could be the best holiday of your life!...
Everyone wants to go to France, Maldives or the US for a vacation but if you would like to experience something slightly different from touristy destinations, we've collated quite a few amazing places that you could explore! Pristine, secluded beaches, historically rich cities, and a diverse range of terrains in one place – this list has got it all! Keep reading to find out what are the 10 most unusual travel destinations off the beaten path. 1. Red Beach, Panjin, China Credit: Wikipedia Yes, you read that right – Red Beach – also referred to as “ Red Carpet Beach” by locals. The Red Beach national corridor is one part of the Liaodong coastline extending for 118kms. It garners more than 2 million tourists annually, so why not be one of that 2 million and enjoy the absolute splendour of this magical landscape. The vibrant red colour is given by the seep weed which grows from summer to autumn. Panjin is a coastal town with a lot to offer to travellers – beautiful countryside, hot springs and ancient towns offer much for sight seeing and leisure. You can get to this scenic coastal town by a long distance bus. You can even take a train from Beijing to Panjin. There are a few halal restaurants within the province such as Ming Mings Dumplings, Yifeng Moslam park and many more. Check the China foreigners guide for more restaurants. 2. Popeye Village, Malta Credit: @popeyemalta on Facebook This fun, quirky town was originally a film set for the famed “Popey” Musical starring the ever wonderful Robin Williams. So, this should be one of the top destinations to visit on your list! Located next to the turquoise sea, this colourful town is for the young at heart, especially for all you Popeye the Sailor-man fans. The town hosts many events throughout the year and has many guided tours. You can find accommodation at Melliha, there are many hotels and getting from there to Popeye village is very easy, you could just walk the 2Km distance or take a bus from there. The bus routes tend to change in Malta so refer the Malta Transport website for all the information you need. There are many Halal restaurants scattered around the islands and it is very easy travel in Malta, since the islands are small and the distances aren’t that long. There are many Turkish restaurants and a few Indian restaurants which are Halal friendly. 3. Pamukkale, Turkey Credit: @Pamukkale.Hierapolis on Facebook Located in the picturesque southwest of Turkey, this pristine white locale is the stuff of dreams. From the white terraces to the crystalline green pools, Pamukkale, Turkeyis a dreamscape worth experiencing. Pamukkale translates to “Cotton Castle” and rightly so, it is also the home of the well preserved ancient Graeco-Roman city of Hieropolis. An all in one location with its travertine limestone formations, hot springs, ancient temples, bathouses and necropolis all rolled in to one, this is a definite once in a lifetime adventure you should take. Bathe in the beautiful warm pools like the Romans once did, and explore the remains of a once great spa city. The easiest way to get there is to board a flight from Istanbul to Denizli Cardak Airport, Turkish Airlines offers flights to Denizli. Denizli is 65km away from Pamukkale, you can opt for an airport shuttle, or you can get a bus from the Denizli bus station – the ride is 40mins. There are many hotels in the city that suit all budgets, as well as many Halal friendly restaurants in the area, so you can easily find food without having to worry about Halal authenticity. Some of the best restaurants are Mhemet’s Heaven, Cadde Grill House and Yildiz restaurant; you can do a quick Google search and find many Halal friendly restaurants easily. 4. Giethoorn, Netherlands Image by Michel van der Vegt from Pixabay Beautiful, serene, quiet, green, these are a few words that describe Giethoorn, a water village also referred to as ‘Dutch Venice’, however minus the crowds and commercialisation. It is an idyllic village setting, with fewer roads and more canals, most areas are not accessible by car – it is either by foot or by boat. The canals are lined with pretty, traditional Dutch thatched roofed houses and almost each house has their own boat, even the mail man uses a boat! It is best explored by joining a canal cruise or by opting for a guided tour with the help of local skippers. You can get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam in one and half hours if you are going by car, you can opt to hire a cab or rent a car and drive by yourself. There is no direct way you could get to the village by public transport, if you really want to however, you could get the train from Amsterdam to Steenwijk, and then catch a bus from Steenwijck to Giethoorn – this trip will take two hours. Accommodation wise, there are a number of hotels within the village, or you could even opt to stay just outside the village. It may be a little difficult to find Halal friendly places in this area, however, there are a few restaurants scattered around the Overjissel province where Giethoorn is located. 5. Socotra, Yemen Image by danielshimmin0 from Pixabay An island that is a part of an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, a surreal, alien landscape that is sure to leave you mesmerised. It was recognised by UNESCO as a world heriatage site in 2008, and is referred to as “the most alien looking place on Earth”. It is so isolated that it’s wildlife is unique to the island and have evolved to adapt to its dessert environment, it is home to a very distinct species of tree known as the Dragon’s Blood Tree, aptly named as it oozes blood red sap. The Bottle Tree is a quirky tree that looks like the foot of an elephant with pink flowers on the top, referred to as desert rose. The island has its own version of birds, such as the Socotra Sunbird, Socotra starling and Socotra grosbeak. The only native mammal on the island is the bat. It is best to book a tour to better explore the island and get more insight. You can reach the Island via Sanaa, the capital of Yemen; get a flight to the Sanaa Airport and from there a get flight to Socotra. You could even go for a direct flight to the island through the Arab Emirates, Felix Airways has scheduled flights from Sharjah to Socotra and back. Don’t expect luxurious resorts and hotels here, it is mostly eco-friendly and you will find five hotels, one eco lodge and many eco-camp sites. Since the island belongs to Yemen, their cuisine is mainly Halal, so you don’t have to worry about trying to find authentic Halal fare. 6. Taha’a, French Polynesia Credit: Tahaa Whilst Bora Bora garners most of the crowd, Taha’a is almost overlooked, but that doesn’t mean this flower shaped island has nothing to offer. If you are looking for a romantic escape or just a few days of pampering, Taha’a will definitely fulfil your dreams. A true island paradise with rolling hills, and valleys covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves. It is the home of the world’s most priced Tahitian Vanilla, making up for 80% of the export from French Polynesia. The whole island is intoxicated by the scent of vanilla and will draw you in with its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and absolute seclusion. The only way to access Taha’a is by boat from her sister island Raiatea. You will have to take a flight which may have stop overs at Paris, Auckland, or Los Angeles, from where you’ll fly to an airport closest to Taha’a depending on the airlines. There are many resorts and hotels to stay at in Taha’a, the more reputed hotels can be on the pricier end of the spectrum. It may be difficult to find Halal food in Taha’a, however, their cuisine mostly comprises of fruits of the sea and fruits of the land, therefore most of the food are Halal friendly. 7. Isle of Skye, Scotland Credit: @IsleofSkyeScotland on Facebook The mystical Isle of Skye which translates to “Cloud Island” from ancient Norse, it is the second largest of Scotland’s islands and the most beautiful! Magical and mysterious, the island boasts deep lochs, towering cliffs and moors, as well as incredible wildlife – a nature lovers dream! Rich in history and culture Skye is a great place to explore, with places like the Mealt Waterfall and Kilt Rock, the Old Man Storr, the Fairy Pools of Glenbrittle, Dinosaur footprints at Staffin Beach, Dunvegan Castle and many more. The closest airports are the Glasgow Airport and the Inverness Airport, from which you can opt to drive to Isle of Skye or take a bus. There is no railway on the island; instead it offers buses and local coaches. The island is full of quaint little cottages that you can rent out; some offer self catering whilst others offer bed and breakfast. The town of Portree is where most tourists stay at; it is the capital of the island and has many hotels, cafes and supermarkets. If you really want to experience Skye, then opt for camping. It is fairly easy to find Halal food in the Island as there is a population of Indians and Pakistanis who live there. They are quite a few good Indian and Pakistani restaurants, as well as some Bangladeshi ones. 8. Bagan, Myanmar Credit: @WonderBaganMyanmar on Facebook This Buddhist temple city was once the capital of an ancient Kingdom, however, now it is an important archaeological zone. Bagan is often compared to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and may even be a rival to Machu Pichu, however, this ancient city has a charm of its own. Witness the majesty of the golden stupas in the temple plain and catch the sunset over the Irrawaddy River. You can witness the beauty of Bagan by Hot Air ballon, the ancient city is a sight to behold 2000 feet up in the air. You can even get more close and personal by biking it on the ground, exercise and a view! Don’t forget to check a local market as well, and get as many souvenirs as you want, also add local festivals to your itinerary as you will be able to taste the best of Burmese hawker food. Flights arrive at the Nyaung-U Airport and it is a 10min taxi ride to Nyaung-U town centre, whilst it’s a 20 minute ride to Old Bagan or New Bagan. When travelling to Bagan it is advisable to go through a travel agent, as they will make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. However, if you do want to travel independently, do a though search on travel requirements and hotels. The more luxurious hotels and resorts are located in Old Bagan, whilst more mid range and budget hotels are found in Nyaung-U and New Bagan. Nyaung-U is Bagan’s largest town, this is where you will find most of the restaurants and hotels, however, it tends to get quite crowded. There are few high end restaurants that serve Halal food, whilst other restaurants will be willing to serve Halal food on request. Most stalls or small restaurants may not have the regular Arabic Halal sign but instead will indicate the availability of Halal food by the number “786” (this is a substitute used within South Asia), therefore look for this sign when looking for Halal eateries. 9. Lake Baikal, Russia Credit: @baikalia on Facebook Known as the “Pearl of Siberia”, Lake Baikal is a crescent shaped lake which is a whopping 1637 metres deep and contains a fifth of the world’s water! It is the world’s deepest lake, and is bigger than Belgium. Due to these properties it has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Summer is the best time to visit Lake Baikal, you will be able to see its natural beauty in all its glory, with the lake’s clear blue waters, and the mountains. Some areas have remained the same since the ancient times – almost untouched or changed by weather. During the winter the lake turns into an expanse of powder white ice and snow, you can enjoy a fun dog sledge ride over its hard surface. You can get to Lake Baikal by flying to Moscow and then boarding a plane to Irkutsk which is 65km away from Lake Baikal or Ulan-Ude which is 150km away from the lake. If you want to have a more interesting journey, you can use the Trans-Siberian Railway and hop on a train from Moscow to Irkutsk which is 3 days, Beijing to Irkutsk which is 2 days, or the train from Vladivostok which is 2.5 days. After which you will have to board a bus from Irkutsk bus station to Lake Baikal, the journey takes 10mins. The best route to take is Mosco -Slyudyanka, it takes 4 days and you will be dropped off right at the shoreline of Lake Baikal. You can stay at the hotels and hostels located around the shoreline of the lake or even camp out or stay on a boat. Finding Halal food may be difficult especially if you are travelling by train; therefore it is better if you pack your own, like instant noodles and other small snacks. When booking a room make sure they provide a stove or small kitchen as you can prepare your own meals that way. You can get grocery shopping done at nearby cities like Irkutsk, which is just a 10min bus ride away from Lake Baikal. 10. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Japan Photo by Satoshi Hirayama from Pexels Located in Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a must see place before you die, photographed multiple times, but you have to really be there to experience it’s green mystique. The bamboo grove is a great spot for a quiet walk or bike ride, rows of bamboo swaying in the light breeze is not a sight to be missed. Absolutely beautiful and pure, it should be a must visit when in Kyoto. The best way to get to Kyoto is by Kansai Airport, afterwards you can board a train to Arashiyama. You can use the Japan Railways, Keifuku Railways, or Hankyu Railways. There are many hotels and guest houses in Arashiyama, and they are available for every budget. There are quite a few Halal restaurants scattered around Arashiyama, as well as shops. You can find a full Halal menu at the Yoshiya restaurant just 10mins away from the Japan Railway Saga-Arashiyama train station. They introduced this Halal menu in 2018, and have served Japanese Halal food since. Book your flight and pack your bags, your unusual adventure awaits you!...
When it comes to Muslim-friendly destinations, there is no area more perfect than the Middle Eastern region, and the growing popularity of travelling to the Middle East makes it much easier for halal travel. Countries that are ruled by Muslim monarchs translates to abundant Muslim-friendly services like halal food, places to pray, and even segregation in areas like water parks, the metro, and public buses. It means that even though Middle Eastern destinations comprise of a large expat population, they are used to Islamic culture and attire, and religious biases are practically non-existent. If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday with little stress and more spontaneity, check out these top 6 Middle Eastern countries (in no particular order) that you should visit: 1) United Arab Emirates When it comes to where to travel in the Middle East, this is a no-brainer, as far as tourist destinations go, Dubai is on the map. But the UAE has made sure that the rest of the Emirates step up their game as well, and every place has something to offer. Whether it is living the fast life, big entertainment, touring the best mosques, or discovering Arab culture, UAE has it all. Attractions Abu Dhabi: Ferrari World, Yas Water WorldDubai: Wild Wadi, Ski Dubai, Sky Dive, Parasailing, Desert SafariAl Ain: Jabal al HafeetHatta: Hatta Kayak Must-Visit Architecture Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed mosque; Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Burj al Arab, Atlantis, Bastakia in Bur Dubai, Souq;Sharjah: Blue Souq; Ras Al Khaimah: Al Jazirat Al Hamra (a spooky abandoned village rumoured to be haunted, it is also known as Ghost Town. It dates back to the 14th century and is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone who has wanted to visit the set of a horror movie); Fujairah: Al Bidyah Mosque (the oldest mosque in the UAE, built in 1446) Getting around Dubai with public transport is fairly easy thanks to the Dubai Metro. The cabin after Gold Class is ladies only, as well as the front section on public buses. Similarly, Wild Wadi has ladies night in the summer, and Jabal al Hafeet has segregated hot spring areas that you can bathe in. With masjids, every few feet or so, and prayer rooms in the malls, praying while you’re on the move is not an issue. Make the most of the halal food cuisine with every country’s food imaginable. All restaurants are halal certified (only hotel buffets might serve pork), so eating out is a breeze! UAE is considered to be a pricey destination, and that is true if you want to splurge on the big entertainment venues like theme parks and adventure sports. You can balance it out, however, by going to the beach, roaming around the souqs, taking a ride in the abra at the Creek which is the cheapest ride you’ll ever get in the country, and taking the time to soak up the culture. You can find cheaper accommodations as compared to the hotels like furnished apartments, and thanks to the Dubai Metro, you are connected to the rest of the city. 2) Saudi Arabia We know that Saudi Arabia isn’t really known as a tourist destination – just one for Hajj and Umrah. Some people just go for the pilgrimage, while others take tour packages that show them the sites of Islamic history. Even though that is what Saudi is most famous for, it does have more to offer than just that. Attractions If you are in the vicinity of Makkah and Madinah, then you’re in the vicinity of Islamic historic sites. The battlefields of Badr and Uhud, the first masjid ever built there, Masjid Qiblatayn – the masjid with the two qiblahs, and so much more. If you are at all interested in Islamic history, it pays to put an image to the names. Durrat Al Arous Island north of Jeddah houses Albatoul Marine which is a fun place for adventure sports. Flyboarding is bit pricey here, but worth it if you’ve ever wanted to walk – no, fly – on water! Water jets are attached to your boots and up you go! Must-Visit Architecture Without a doubt, the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah are mandatory. Not just because they are spectacular and places of such peace and tranquillity despite the hustle and bustle, but because they are also home to great reward. Any prayer offered here is multiplied immensely. Credit: Wikipedia Muslims visiting Saudi rarely leave without visiting one of these sites. What most people don’t make it to are the Madain Saleh and sites. Jubbah and Shuwaymus are the areas with rock carving show that there that is so much more to Saudi Arabian history that is yet to be explored. The carvings are in a different language and depict what life was like in those days, much like hieroglyphics. Madain Saleh is not just for history buffs. These fascinating structures built so many thousands of years ago still stand today, attesting to an era long gone but not entirely forgotten. The area used to have fresh water that attracted many settlers who then carved out structures. Today, it is completely dry but the buildings still stand. As with countries in the Middle East, certain attractions can be rather pricey. But when it comes to history, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. 3) Qatar Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world, and its lifestyle reflects that. Just step into the airport and you are surrounded by brand names and items that seem like they belong in a dream. Despite all this modernity though, Qatar still maintains its heritage, and it is one of the best places to visit. Attractions Credit: Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara on Facebook Banana Island Resort by Anantara is truly a paradise. Even if you’re not staying at the luxury hotel, you can still enjoy the premises. Its tropical flora makes you forget you’re in the Middle East, and you are treated to a range of cuisines. Make the most of the beach and sea, go bowling or take a Segway ride on this almost-private island. Credit: Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) on Facebook In complete contrast is the Museum of Islamic Arts which houses the largest Islamic art collection in the world. Curated from three different continents, Qatar is proud of this gem not only because of what is within but because the structure itself is magnificent, designed by the architect of the Louvre Pyramid. On its own island with a palm-tree lined entrance, set amid a vast landscape and an impeccable view across the water, this place is worth the visit. Credit: Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) on Facebook There are guided tours in English and Arabic every Thursday at 2pm of the permanent collection housed on two floors. Unlike other museums, the Museum of Islamic Arts is organised in such a way that you get a feel of what Islamic art is truly like through the homogeneity of a single print used across various medium. Visitors are requested to avoid strappy and short clothing and you might be restricted from entering. Must-Visit Architecture While some prefer the air-conditioned climate of malls, others would rather take in the culture while roaming the souqs. Souq Waqif is one such place that you should not miss. Contradicting the high-end fashion and attire visible in the malls, the streets are where you get a taste of what Qatar is really like. Vibrant in its sights, smells and feels, Souq Waqif has beautiful traditional bukhoor, spices, and embroidered clothing. Credit: Katara It is also a testament to history as it is where Bedouins would come to trade their essentials too. Katara Cultural Village is a beautiful man-made location to soak up more heritage. From the architecture to the Greek-Islamic style amphitheatre, people flock there in the evenings when the weather gets cooler to enjoy the outdoors. There are restaurants, mosques, and a beach right with water sports and inflatable play complexes, making it the perfect family spot. Qatar is known to be a pricey location but the country is also very hospitable. If you want to live in the lap of luxury for a few days, this is the place for you. 4) Oman Even though Oman is in the Middle East – and generally what comes to mind when one thinks of ‘Middle East’ is ‘desert’, Oman is one of the few countries that actually has a tropical oasis region. Laidback and serene, the country has plenty to offer tourists. Since a slice of Oman juts into the UAE, many residents of UAE take the opportunity on long weekends or holidays to avail the natural sites available. However, if you decide to stay there exclusively, there is so much more that you can do. Attractions As always, souqs are part of the Middle Eastern charm and Muttrah Souq is no exception. Go there to get your fix of gahwah or Arabic coffee, bargain for souvenirs, or simply to enjoy the feel of being in an Arab country. The beaches of Musandam are one of the areas that you will find people on day trips as it is separated from Oman by a piece of UAE land. Pristine white sands and clear blue waters make this a hot tourist spot. Credit: Richard Bartz on Wikipedia Oman believes in conserving their land and natural resources and this is evident at Ras al Jinz, a natural reserve for endangered green turtles, located on the east coast. Visitors can observe them laying their eggs, and even catch them hatching and returning to the sea. Wadi Bani Khalid is one of those areas that are striking and green as it has a spring that keeps running year round. Add those palm trees to the shades of red that the rocks are made of, and you have a very Instagrammable location. #prettyasapicture #nofilter Credit: Philipp Weigell on Wikipedia Salalah is the vacation spot inside your holiday. Tropical, cool and like a world of its own, this is a must-visit. If you want your holiday to include a bit of a workout, be sure to head to Jabal al Akhdar. Translating to The Green Mountain, it gets its name from the greenery spattered across it, but it is well known for its hiking trails. Another great spot is Jabal ash-Shams, or Mountain of the Sun, so called as it is believed to be the first point that the sun touches when it rises. It is the highest peak in the region and has some great views. Majlis al Jinn is for the rock climbers out there as it has the second largest cave chamber in the world. The Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural phenomenon caused by limestone that eroded below the surface leaving a spectacularly blue-green pool for swimming. Must-Visit Architecture Credit: World Architecture Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque has to be one of the staples on your list of sights to see. This Grand Mosque is one of the chain of Sultan Qaboos mosques built around the world. The high arches, golden domes, engraved walls and a beautiful interior should not be missed. The Royal Opera House sounds like it belongs in England, but this one is in Oman. Besides the various international performances that the venue is used for, you can tour the location that resembles a palace. Oman is like one of those shy kids standing in the back; only when you decide to look further do you realise the gems it has to offer. 5) Kuwait Kuwait may not be a tourist hotspot, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t waiting to be explored. Like the UAE, Kuwait is known for its modernity and high rise buildings, but they also keep a strong hold on their roots and culture. Kuwait is one of the smaller Middle Eastern countries, but it is worth the trip. When travelling around the GCC, what is striking is that, even though they all appear to be the same on the outside, different aspects of heritage and culture stand out when you dig deep. Attractions Housing an Imax cinema, aquarium, dhow harbour, and a discovery palace, The Scientific Centre is the best place to take kids. The floor-to-ceiling shark and ray tanks are incredible to see, and getting your hands dirty in the Discovery Palace allows kids to get lost in the wonder of science. Credit: @aquaparkq8 on Instagram In addition to viewing the different regions present in the aquarium – the desert, coastal edge, and sea zone – you can also dive with sharks if you have a valid diving licence. The age for diving is 14 years and older. If you don’t want to swim with sharks, no problem! Head to Aqua Park, a major water theme park in Kuwait. Whether you are a child or an adult, Aqua Park has something for everyone. Fancy lazing around? Grab a tube and float on the Lazy River. Want an adrenalin shot? Try the Boomerango. There are cafes and restaurants inside the park which are all halal, but as food can be a bit pricey, take at least a bottle of water with you. Tuesdays are now reserved for ladies’ day, but even if you go with the family, there are separate changing areas for men and women and separate prayer areas. Bikinis are not allowed. Credit: Mirror House The Mirror House is definitely a must-see as, even though it is an art display, it is more like art in action. You will not be bored. Each room is explained by the Italian-Kuwaiti artist and took around 40 years to complete. Yes, 40 years! It better be good! With visual effect and getting the visitors to interact with the art, this is one thing you have to experience to understand. Falaika Island is where you can see true history. Take a ferry to the island that is now an open-air museum, depicting the war. Must-Visit Architecture As with all the Gulf countries, the local Grand Mosque is a must-visit. The architecture is unique to the country and its history, and Kuwait’s Grand Mosque is no exception. With the hustle and bustle of the city, head here to admire the structure and bask in the tranquility. Kuwait Towers are also an iconic part of the city. With a viewing platform and a restaurant, you can grab a bite while you cast your glance of a view over almost the entire country. Tareq Rajab Museum is another standout location to visit. Housing some of the most beautiful pieces in history – think jewels and garments fit for a princess – the collection of Arabic manuscripts is what rocks it to international standards. Mercifully, while the rest of the museum was being looted by Iraqi soldiers during the war, this area was left untouched thanks to the quick thinking of the local guards. The Kuwaiti Dinar is one of the strongest currencies in the world, so don’t be fooled by the small numbers. 6) Bahrain If you’re looking for a totally laidback holiday, Bahrain is the place to go. As a small country that mostly keeps to itself, Bahrain isn’t on the map as a tourist destination. There are plenty of low-key things you can keep yourself occupied with though, so if this is you, keep reading. Attractions Camping in the desert might seem like a risky move – “What about the snakes and scorpions?” – but wait till you see the level of camping. With proper toilets, plasma TVs, and food in your tents, just think of it as a relocation of your hotel room. Camping is open from October 15th to March 31st. Head to Hawar Island off the coast of Qatar to bask in nature. It is a protected wildlife reserve that is under Qatar as well, and a beautiful place to get away from desert life. Explore the souqs for your regular souvenirs. Just walking around the souq will expose you to items that you wouldn’t even have thought of getting. The biggest thing that Bahrain is known for is hosting the Grand Prix, so be sure to time your holiday around then and grab some tickets! You can’t leave Bahrain without taking an authentic souvenir for yourself, and what better way to do that than to go pearl diving? If you’re finding it hard to decide between buying traditional keepsakes and regular ones, you can take your time exploring Al Jasra Handicraft Centre with displays work by local artisans, or going across to the Capital Mall. Must-Visit Architecture Were you expecting to visit a mosque? Don’t miss Al Fateh Grand Mosque! Muslims and non-Muslims alike are allowed to tour the impressive mosque on Open Day. Qal’at al Bahrain is the 16th century remains of a Bahrain or Portuguese fort that is free to look around. Going back in time a hundred years is the Arad Fort, a 15th century fort that initially guarded its own island before being joined to Muharraq Island. It differs from Qal’at al Bahrain by its Islamic architecture, as it was built before the Portuguese invaded Bahrain. The currency in Bahrain is also pretty strong compared to the other Gulf countries, so the prices can seem a bit steep at times. With the few things there are to do in Bahrain though, we think a few days is enough time to visit....
The Global Muslim Travel Index for 2018 is out! If you’re wondering what the most Muslim-friendly countries are for the year 2018, getting yourself a copy of the latest index is an absolute must! Covering 130 destinations - both, OIC and non-OIC -, the Global Muslim Travel Index 2018 by Mastercard and CrescentRating rank these countries based on key criteria covering access, communications, environment and services. The OIC destinations that scored the top spots in the index all offer a plethora of facilities and services that Muslims look for when traveling; from Halal food and prayer facilities, to affordability and accessibility. Here’s a look at the top 10 Muslim-friendly OIC destinations in 2018 that are doing all the right things to make Muslim travellers feel right at home! Malaysia Picture Credit: www.lonelyplanet.com It’s no surprise that once again, for the eighth consecutive year; Malaysia has managed to keep its top position in the global Muslim travel market! One of the most sought after travel destinations for Muslim families, as well as honeymooners and backpackers, Malaysia is a country that does not only offer endless things to do and see; from cultural wonders to spectacular natural sites, but its Muslim-majority status and the countless facilities they offer, attract Muslim tourists from around the world who are looking to have an unforgettable holiday while also staying true to their religious beliefs. Considered as one of the fastest developing countries in the world, Malaysia combines old-world charm and modern city-life effortlessly. Like most Muslim-majority countries, Malaysia is home to plenty of mosques; including some of the most beautiful in the world, and even offer prayer rooms and ablution facilities in most malls and major attractions. In addition to that, Halal food can be found throughout the country, from street-side carts to food courts to renowned, top-notch restaurant, thus the convenience. Along with the amazing tourist experience they offer, they are certainly proving to be unbeatable! Find Halal food places in Malaysia Find Mosques and Prayer places in Malaysia Indonesia Picture Credit: blog.davestpay.com Next on the list, and tying with the United Arab Emirates in second place, is beautiful Indonesia! A fantastic destination for Muslim travellers, this Muslim-majority country is one of the most perfect spot for that Muslim-friendly holiday you’ve been dreaming of for a while! While this Southeast Asian country remains as a popular destination for both Muslim and non-Muslims, Indonesia truly defines what it means to be Muslim-friendly. Halal food can be found almost anywhere in the country, and mosques and prayer places are available throughout. Indonesia ticks all the right boxes. From offering Muslim travellers all of the Muslim-friendly facilities they require, to its natural beauty, and its cultural diversity and even being a destination for shopaholics and foodies, Indonesia is a destination unlike any other! Find Halal food places in Indonesia Find Mosques and Prayer places in Indonesia The United Arab Emirates Picture Credit: www.zocalopublicsquare.org The United Arab Emirates, along with Indonesia, took the second spot in the Global Muslim Travel Index 2018. A collection of seven Emirates; Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Umm al-Quwain, the UAE is a Muslim country that has been in the limelight for the past few years, due to its ‘bigger is better’ attitude. From being home to some of the biggest and most well-known attractions in the world, to its incredible world-renowned food scene and its note-worthy infrastructure. Even boasting some of the world’s best Muslim-friendly facilities and its diversity in culture, Dubai is without a doubt one of the most popular tourist destinations across the globe. Finding mosques and prayer places along with Halal food in the country’s major cities, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, will be incredibly easy, and finding the same, is just as effortless in its lesser known ones as well. Find Halal food places in UAE Find Mosques and Prayer places in UAE Turkey Picture Credit: www.worldatlas.com The vibrant country of Turkey has long been a destination attracting tourists from all over the world. Its fascinating history, culture and customs, along with its spectacular attractions and beautiful architecture, stunning natural scenery and its location makes it one of the most popular travel destinations in the world! Long being enchanting visitors, Turkey also has some of the most mouth-watering food! And, all of you out there who travel to taste and discover new exciting dishes; since the country is made up of mostly Muslims, almost all the food found throughout is Halal! Mosques are scattered throughout the country, and that along with all other Muslim-friendly amenities the country offers, make Muslims always feel right at home when visiting. Find Halal food places in Turkey Find Mosques and Prayer places in Turkey Saudi Arabia Picture Credit: www.kozanbilgi.net Saudi Arabia is one of the top countries in the world for Muslim travel, especially due to it being home to the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah. Muslims travel across the world to Saudi Arabia at least once in their lifetime to perform the Holy pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah. However, Saudi Arabia’s other cities also offer plenty to do and see; from Islamic heritage sites, to modern attractions, making Saudi Arabia the ultimate Muslim-friendly destination. One thing that Muslims are sure to find exciting, is that only Halal food can be found throughout the country, so eating out can be done without a worry in the world! The country also has countless mosques and prayer rooms, which means no matter where you are; in a mall, or even driving across the dessert, finding prayer facilities can be done so with ease. Find Halal food places in Saudi Arabia Find Mosques and Prayer places in Saudi Arabia Qatar Picture Credit: www.iloveqatar.net Qatar is the new up-and-coming destination, fast following in the steps of some of the UAE’s major cities, such as Dubai. The Middle Eastern country; known for its futuristic architecture and impressive, modern skyline, is developing rapidly and becoming a must-visit destination for Muslim travelers. It offers a great blend of rich culture and traditions, along with a sophisticated art and food scene, making it an exciting destination for Muslims to discover. As with all of the countries in this list, its majority-Muslim population means that Muslim-friendly facilities like Halal food, as well as mosques and prayer rooms, can be found throughout. Find Halal food places in Qatar Find Mosques and Prayer places in Qatar Bahrain Picture Credit: itcsecure.com Moving a few spots up in the Global Muslim Travel Index 2018, from the 2017 index, Bahrain may not be as well-known as some other Middle Eastern countries, but the destination is rapidly gaining recognition as a superb destination for Muslim travelers due to a number of factors. The island-nation boasts a laid-back vibe, which attracts those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life while not compromising on their religious values. It is home to numerous historical and cultural sites, offers visitors a fascinating look into wealthy Arab life and culture, and also has a plethora of Muslim-friendly facilities. Halal food and prayer facilities are widely found around the country, thus making it incredibly easy for Muslim visitors to explore it without a worry. Find Halal food places in Bahrain Find Mosques and Prayer places in Bahrain Oman Picture Credit: www.constructionweekonline.com Next up, is the exotic destination of Oman! The Islamic country offers Muslim travellers an incredible experience, by featuring all of the Muslim-friendly facilities visitors usually look for in a destination; Halal food and prayer facilities, as well as numerous fascinating attractions and sites, making it a gem of a destination that can be discovered with ease, and thus a popular getaway spot for those in neighbouring countries. The country is steeped in history and has managed to keep its roots without letting development take over. From incredible culture immersions, to the friendliest of people, to beach getaways, mountain treks and desert escapades, to breathtaking natural scenery and ancient sites, we truly can’t think of another place that offers everything that the spectacular country of Oman does! Find Halal food places in Oman Find Mosques and Prayer places in Oman Morocco Picture Credit: www.moroccokeytravel.com This list would definitely be incomplete without the addition of colourful Morocco! A well-known travel destination; the North African country of Morocco is one that will enchant you with its incredible, diverse culture, its natural beauty and spectacular beaches, its fascinating ancient cities and rich deserts, its warm hospitality and its delicious, fragrant food. And it only gets better because of its Muslim-friendliness! With the country being predominantly Muslim, it has all the amenities Muslim travellers look for when planning a getaway. Halal food is widely found across Morocco, and so are mosques and prayer rooms. Find Halal food places in Morocco Find Mosques and Prayer places in Morocco Kuwait Picture Credit: www.worldtravelguide.net Kuwait takes the Global Muslim Travel Index’s tenth spot for the year 2018, and we think that’s definitely well deserved! While not as loud and luxurious as other well known Middle Eastern countries, Kuwait’s charm is magnetic and undeniable. Ideal for those looking to experience that ‘Arab feel’, Kuwait is home to some wonderful attractions, and its natural beauty is certainly something to write about. The country features some fantastic museums, a lively food scene, some lovely beaches and pretty souqs. Its predominantly Muslim population also means that no matter where in the country you are, prayer facilities are easy to find and Halal restaurants are aplenty! Find Halal food places in Kuwait Find Mosques and Prayer places in Kuwait Go on a Halal Trip with us!...
Travelling to the United Arab Emirates can be such an amazing and thrilling experience. If you're looking for a rather conservative city in the United Arab Emirates, Sharjah is your destination. It's a city with a lot of historic sites, which can educate you so much about the Emirati culture. In order for you to plan your trip around the amazing city of Sharjah, here is a complete guide to help you get around the Sharjah airport. Find things to do in the UAE Browse our Sharjah city guide Description Picture Credit - www.sharjahairport.ae The Sharjah airport is located 13km southeast of Sharjah, and its capacity is spread over 3800 acres. The Sharjah airport is the third largest Middle East airfreight hub in cargo tonnage. The current Sharjah airport was built around the 1970s and was officially opened on 1 January 1977, replacing the former airport built for the city. The former airport's runway is now part of King Abdul Aziz Street in the city centre of Sharjah. The Sharjah airport serves as the central hub for all of Air Arabia's administration since 2003, making it an important operations location in the United Arab Emirates. Address: Sharjah International Airport P.O.Box 8 Sharjah, UAETel.: +971 6 5581111Website: https://www.sharjahairport.ae/en/ Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn | Prayer Facilities Being an Islamic city, Sharjah makes it easy for a Muslim traveller to find a prayer location in its airport. Prayer locations can be found on the Main Passenger terminal transit area and the departure area in the ground floor, with female and male prayer areas provided separately for the convenience of the Muslim travellers to offer their prayers in peace. Furthermore, there are also mosques located in both the East and West Cargo Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 4. Childcare Services Picture Credit - instagram.com/sharjahairport Travelling with a child can be a tedious task to manage, but in Sharjah Airport, there are convenient, dedicated play areas under the watchful supervision of the airport staff, which will enable you to leave your kids and keep them occupied while you relax, unwind, and pray or shop at the duty free section. Halal Food Picture Credit - instagram.com/sharjahairport There are a variety of dining options for you to choose from, and all the food is halal due to the country being an Islamic country! Therefore you needn't worry, you'll be able to munch on almost anything your heart desires. Whether you are craving Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean or authentic Arab cuisine, you'll be able to find it at the Sharjah Airport for a reasonable price. Some of the restaurants you can choose from are Cafe Med, Chinese House Restaurant, Chocolix, Costa Coffee and Dunkin Donuts. See the complete list here. Transportation Picture Credit - instagram.com/sharjahairport Finding transport to and from the Sharjah International Airport is no hard task at all, you can either choose to rent a car for your stay at Sharjah, cab, or even use the public transport, as you like. If you are keen on renting a car to get you out and about in the beautiful city of Sharjah, you'll easily be able to rent yourself a car within the airport premises. You'll be able to choose from a range of cars according to your budget and requirements, ranging from economical vehicles to luxury vehicles such as limousines. Simply drop by one of the service stations and they'll kindly guide you through the available options for you to choose from, and this service is provided in the airport for 24 hours at your convenience. Below is a list of car rental services present at the Sharjah International Airport. • Auto Lease • Avis • Budget • Dollar • Europcar • Fast UAE • Hertz • Maximum Rent a Car • Sayara • Sixt • Thrifty. If you prefer taking taxis as a mean of transport, you'll be able to do so with ease. All taxis are fitted with meters to avoid any inconvenience or fraud in payment. Make sure that you have United Arab Emirates Dinars to make your payments, since charges are only accepted in local currency. For more information regarding the taxi services in the country, please contact 600525252. If you're keen on using public transport to make your trip extra thrilling, you can travel in air-conditioned coaches not only towards Sharjah, but to other cities of the United Arab Emirates as well. The public coaches are a rather economical option for your travel, but it's very comfortable and reliable as well. Note that buses leave every 15 minutes. Mowasalat, which is a renowned transport provider in the country, also provides a comfortable, air-conditioned transport service to its customers. The coaches leave in 15 minute intervals, and you would not only be able to travel around Sharjah, but to other cities of the country as well. To find more information about the routes and timings please visit www.mowasalat.ae/route15.php If you're an Air Arabia customer, you'll be able to use the coach service provided by them to get you all set for your stay in the city. For further information please visit the website www.airarabia.com/en/coach-services Banking Facilities and Services Picture Credit - instagram.com/sharjahairport A large number of ATMs are located throughout the airport in convenient locations for cash withdrawals and other banking transactions. Simply follow the airport map or stop at an information desk, and you'll be guided to the nearest ATM in order for you to complete your transactions. Picture Credit - Adapted from www.sharjahairport.ae In terms of Foreign Exchange services, it is located in the arrivals, departure and transit areas for your convenience. Here is a list of the exchange centers and their locations at the airport. UAE EXCHANGE – located in the departure domeAL-CHURAIR EXCHANGE - located in the departure domeSALIM EXCHANGE – located in both departure and arrival areasTRAVELEX – located in the departure dome and “M“ floor Medical Services Picture Credit - instagram.com/sharjahairport At any point if you require medical attention in the airport facility you need not be concerned since the Sharjah Airport is well equipped with an on-site medical clinic, situated in the Main Dome of the airport for any passenger or visitor who requires medical attention at the airport. The clinic is well equipped and consists of friendly and well-trained staff who will care for your medical and health needs. Apart from the clinic, Pharma vending machines are located at the Departure and Arrival areas for any minor medical needs that require tending to. Telecommunications Services Picture Credit - facebook.com/SharjahAirport In case of emergencies, Sharjah aiport has numerous telephones located throughout the airport facility in order for you to get in touch with the ones you love. Local calls to Sharjah are free, whereas credit card and cash telephones are also available at the airport for international calls. Follow the airport map or ask for assistance in locating your nearest telephone for any communication purposes. Apart from telephone facilities, the airport also provides email and internet browsing facilities to the passengers and visitors. Shopping Picture Credit - facebook.com/SharjahAirport No proper trip is complete without a bit of shopping, and the Sharjah duty free helps you choose among the well-known brands of perfumes, electronics, fashion, handicrafts, cosmetics, sweets, etc. for great deals and prices. The duty free of the Sharjah airport is managed by Dufry sharjah which is a renowned global travel retailer which operates in over 1100 duty-free and duty-paid shops at airports, cruise ships, railway stations and various locations. So it is without a doubt that you'll skip away those long hours in transit, or else you can start or end your journey having a great shopping extravaganza at the Sharjah International Airport. Transit Hotel Picture Credit - instagram.com/sharjahairport In case you want to simply unwind after a long flight, you'll be able to do so at the Transit Hotel located within the airport premises. It consists of private rooms and sharing rooms, all equipped with a mini bar, hair dryer and satellite television facilities, and they provide laundry services, money exchange services, doctors on call, etc. For more information regarding the terms and conditions, prices and necessary documentation, please visit the airport facilities page, or drop them an email at info@sharjahairporttransithotel.com Find Attractions near you in the UAE Book a Halal Hotel in the UAE...
Prayer times for Sharjah,United Ara..