Muslim-Friendly Hotels and Hospitality Practices: A Comprehensive Review of Global Trends and Challenges

Abstract

This study reviews global practices and challenges in implementing Muslim-friendly and Shariah-compliant hotels (SCHs), which have become an emerging focus in the hospitality sector. Guided by two research questions, it examines how these hotels are managed worldwide and the barriers that limit their development. A systematic review of studies published between 2011 and 2025 reveals that their practices extend beyond halal-certified food to include prayer facilities, gender-sensitive amenities, Islamic financial systems, and service delivery grounded in Shariah principles. Despite these advances, four key challenges remain, which are inconsistent standards, operational complexity, differing market expectations, and limited stakeholder awareness. The reviewed studies reflect a gradual but steady academic engagement with this topic over time, underscoring its growing importance within the global tourism landscape. This paper contributes by consolidating fragmented evidence and clarifying the dual role of these hotels in fulfilling faith-based needs while being appealing to wider audiences. Sustaining growth in this sector requires coherent certification, skilled workforce development, and stronger collaboration between policymakers and industry practitioners.