The Impact Of Islamic Attributes Of Destination On Tourists Tourism Essay Example

incorporated into official tourism marketing efforts at national and international levels. Governments strive to attract high-quality visitors by aligning their policies with Islamic principles while international strategies aim to promote intra-Islamic travel. Thus,the management of Islam and tourism extends beyond any single country's circumstances. It is estimated that by 2025 approximately 30% of the global population will practice Islam [3]. Despite their notable presence in the tourism industry,Muslim countries only receive less than 10% of global tourism revenue.The top four Muslim countries attracting tourists are Morocco,Egypt,Turkey,and Malaysia.In just 2004 alone these countries collectively welcomed17.5 million tourists.In December 2006, the World Tourism Organization identified Algeria, Iran, Malaysia, Turkey, Oman, Syria, UAE, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Egypt as emerging tourist destinations. Despite not fully realizing their potential in the tourism market yet, Islamic countries offer a rich prehistoric tradition and associated building techniques worth learning from. Rituals, festivals, ceremonial events, and religious structures are major attractions for devout followers and those with a casual interest. Islam has always emphasized certain types of travel that hold social and religious significance even today. The pilgrimages associated with Islam involve a duty to migrate to specific destinations; thus making the journey an essential aspect of Islam itself. Additionally, ziyarat (visits to different shrines) is considered a form of voluntary pilgrimage that reflects the unique traditions of Islamic populations. Muslims are encouraged by the Quran to embark on this journey to appreciate God's universe's beauty and visit friends and relatives while also having a responsibility to provide hospitality according to Islamic law for visitors who enjoy citizens' rights.The Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia that attracts over a million Muslims,

requiring significant organizational efforts by authorities [9]. While the significance of this pilgrimage is well-documented in Islamic religious accounts (source 10), it is argued that participation in sacred travel to destinations other than Mecca should also be considered (source 11). The increase in outward tourism serves as evidence that many Muslims share a common enthusiasm for leisure travel. Within certain ultraorthodox and patriarchal Islamic cultures, gender disparities in engagement with tourism are particularly pronounced, as women face significant restrictions (source 12). Male dominance is prevalent in numerous Muslim states where adult women are excluded from public life. Some argue that this inequality stems from a misinterpretation of religious texts, affecting women's involvement not only in tourism but also other sectors. However, many women believe that a correct interpretation of these texts actually safeguards their rights. In addition, veiling is seen by some as a reflection of cultural identity rather than female oppression. Despite these gender-based inequalities, Islam does not fundamentally oppose tourism. Nonetheless, strained relations between Western and Muslim countries can have negative effects on international tourism.The association of Islam with subjugation, terrorism, conservatism, and anti-Western sentiment has led to criticism of the religion. Meanwhile, the West has faced backlash for its imperialistic tendencies and pursuit of economic, political, and social dominance. These concepts can create cultural clashes between hosts and tourists when religion plays a different role. Non-Muslim tourists may unintentionally or knowingly disregard the customs of local Muslim communities based on their religious codes, which can be disruptive. However, accommodating the specific needs of Muslim travelers abroad may cause anxiety for both the travelers themselves and those they interact with [17]. To address

these issues, the Western tourism industry provides information about mosque locations and halal food options in order to encourage more frequent visits from Muslim tourists. Some hotel rooms are also designed to face Mecca to facilitate prayer; however, there is ongoing debate about whether these measures are adequate. Certain Middle Eastern countries have chosen not to engage in international tourism due to their political ideology and concerns about potential social problems that they perceive as incompatible with Islam [18].Brunei, known as a "reluctant tourist destination," is unique because its wealth negates the need for economic incentives to protect its citizens and promote international tourism [19]. The lack of consensus on what constitutes compatibility or true Islamic behavior leads to ongoing debates about the practice and significance of Islam. The teachings and customs of the Prophet, as documented by his household and companions, are considered authoritative in accordance with the Quran and Hadith. However, studying Shariah has resulted in disagreements over interpretation, application, and authenticity. As a result, Muslim nations may vary in their receptiveness to tourists based on levels of liberalism and personal gain. Iran is generally viewed as relatively moderate with favorable popular reactions. Nevertheless, concerns about moral decline and cultural impact necessitate further exploration into tourism's effects on Muslim societies. Research indicates that tourist motivation and satisfaction often stem from seeking educational experiences. Eco-tourists, for example, seek environmental knowledge, while eco-tourism operators offering high-quality environmental education programs can gain a sustainable competitive advantage if enough tourists are attracted to these experiences. It is crucial to prioritize meeting the needs of Muslim tourists and promoting visits to Muslim countries in order to encourage repeat

visits and foster loyalty.Some countries overlook the specific needs in their tourism strategies, particularly when it comes to developing countries and Islamic culture. The concept of push and pull factors is used to understand tourism motivation, which involves satisfying needs and wants. Internal forces like motivation, satisfaction, and loyalty contribute to this motivation, while external forces such as Islamic attributes attract tourists to certain destinations. This study examines both push and pull factors for domestic tourism among Islamic tourists. The findings reveal three push factors (motivation, satisfaction, destination loyalty) and one pull factor (Islamic attributes). The pull factor includes aspects like safety, faith, cultural value, usefulness, and social cognition. The study highlights the importance of "value of motivation" and "spirituality" as significant push and pull factors for Islamic tourists. It also confirms a connection between push and pull factors. Despite limited case studies in this area, perceptions and motivations play a crucial role in shaping the destination image for tourist decisions. To analyze perceptions and motivations across different destinations, a questionnaire was given to randomly selected tourists.The study utilized factor analysis and multivariate statistics to identify external variables that affect perceptions and motives, which differ depending on the participant's country of origin. The research uncovered eight factors that contribute to comprehending how tourists from different nationalities perceive the destination and what motivates them. Additionally, Islamic culture and loyalty were found to be significant motivations for tourists. These findings are important for understanding tourist behavior and suggest potential areas for future research.

Tourist behavior encompasses various variables such as motivation, satisfaction, and destination loyalty. Motivation is particularly crucial in understanding tourist behavior as it drives all actions

[23]. It also influences expectations, which in turn shape the perception of experiences and levels of satisfaction [25]. Studies indicate that motivation includes internal psychological factors like needs, wants, and goals that prompt actions aimed at relieving tension and fulfilling those needs [23]. To travel with purpose requires awareness of these needs and goals [26].

Marketing plays a role in creating this awareness by suggesting suitable goals to ensure traveler satisfaction [27]. The perception of traveling to Muslim countries renowned for their beautiful Islamic attributes can greatly impact a tourist's experience. In Western societies, there is a connection between freedom of expression and vacations in terms of self-actualization or self-fulfillment.Self-fulfillment involves an individual's relationship between their actual and ideal self, aiming to reduce the gap between these two cognitive systems [28]. This gap, also known as a scarcity in needs [26], disrupts stability and leads to the need for self-actualisation [25]. However, there is debate regarding whether tourism truly satisfies this intrinsic need. Researchers have identified clusters of leisure activities that satisfy psychological needs, including novelty, animal enjoyment, cognitive stimulation, self-expression, creativity, vicarious competition, relaxation agency belongingness and service [30]. Yet some argue that these superficial needs may be culturally learned stereotypes or explanations for leisure behavior applicable to Muslim tourists as well. This study aims to understand tourism motivations from both behaviorist and cognivist perspectives. The discussion often centers around push factors that motivate individuals to seek specific destinations internally.Tourists are compelled to search for objects and experiences that can satisfy their desires and alleviate their urges. If a tourist is driven by positive push factors, they may exhibit more loyalty towards a particular destination.

The behaviorist viewpoint emphasizes the emotional aspect of decision-making, while the cognivist approach focuses on situational aspects and tourists' knowledge about destinations. This cognitive process results in more specific motives related to particular objects compared to motivations which encompass a category of objects and can lead to different behaviors depending on the situation. Critics have questioned this one-dimensional approach [32], arguing that consumer behavior is influenced by both push and pull factors [33]. Engagement, which refers to motivation, arousal, or involvement [26], is influenced by various marketing activities and situations [25]. Researchers have focused on incorporating emotions and knowledge into decision-making processes for a more holistic approach [34], [35], [36], [25]. In modern society, external factors greatly impact people's intrinsic needs [37]. Advertisement, television, fashion, lifestyle magazines, and designer values shape individuals' knowledge and beliefs in post-modern society as well [37]. Cultural and social impacts also shape motivations when connected to real situations [25].This study examines the relationship between motivation, satisfaction, and tourist destinations. Motivations can be transformed into values through experiences and perceptions, which are then evaluated [39]. If motivation decreases enough, individuals may repeat behaviors and develop habits. Thus, tourism experiences serve as learning experiences that shape habits. Cognitive theorists argue that thoughts about future rewards are influenced by past situations and external factors.

A

The motivations for tourism activities are learned behaviors influenced by objects or activities offered. These motivations are shaped by knowledge and beliefs formed by society, culture, or tourism professionals. The need for self-actualization is learned and practical, expressed through adaptable values in response to the environment. Socialization and evaluations of perceived gaps between actual and ideal selves also contribute

to these values.

A

Some writers speculate on what researchers can learn about individuals' motivations and needs by directly asking them since they may not be consciously known. It is inferred that needs are influenced by immediate social peers, broader social contexts, and the impact of tourism.Stress is described as intrinsic leisure motivation, which is a universal disposition and desire for intrinsic rewards. This motivation includes autonomy, awareness of internal needs, and a strong desire to make destination choices based on those needs by tourists (cited in [26], [44], [45], [46]).

The current society greatly influences the development of the ideal self and perceived needs. Self-actualization is an inherent need for all individuals, but discovering one's true self through personal experiences offers a solution to this dilemma. Individualism encompasses four psychological qualities relevant to understanding personal identity. There are also four aspects of intelligence related to this concept.

Firstly, comprehending one's own goals and values is connected to the philosophical notion of the true self. Secondly, Maslow's theory of self-actualization emphasizes the drive to be authentic. Thirdly, having an internal locus of control involves taking responsibility for one's life. Lastly, principled or post-conventional moral reasoning entails adhering to ethical principles in general.

It is believed that tourists can achieve self-actualization by becoming more independent and aware of their intrinsic needs and motivations.

The text discusses the decreasing need for order and increasing desire for unique experiences in Western society. It emphasizes how unplanned actions and freedom from regulations can allow tourists to express their true identities. The importance of understanding oneself, motivations, and other cultures is highlighted as a way to go beyond being mere consumers of vacations. This understanding

should be based on genuine identity rather than an idealized self, overcoming societal pressures and familiar behaviors. However, further explanation is needed within the context of modernity which both hinders and raises awareness about this concept. The religious characteristics of a destination catering to Muslim tourists can significantly impact travel motivation, tourist satisfaction, and destination loyalty. It is crucial for the tourism industry to acknowledge these religious aspects amidst competition. Additionally, culture and religion are significant factors that play a role in the tourism industry, with research recognizing that Islam's specific rules and regulations influence it. [52][53]This text examines the relationship between Islam and international tourism, using Iran as a case study. It discusses the challenges and opportunities that arise when combining tourism with Islamic practices, including issues related to tourist demands, motivation, satisfaction, and loyalty to destinations. The text also highlights how the Iranian government addresses these matters in consideration of the importance of Islam in everyday life. Additionally, it explores how Islam is depicted in official tourism marketing at both national and international levels. The government aims to cater to tourists' desires while adhering to Islamic principles, and global strategies seek to promote travel within the Muslim community. The findings of this study have implications for managing the intersection of Islam and tourism beyond Iran's context. Various authors have researched how Islamic faith historically encouraged specific types of journeys that held significant social and religious functions while adapting to changing times. These journeys include beliefs in God and Prophet Muhammad, supplications, fasting, giving charity, and migration impulse as their five pillars. Ziyarat or visits to various shrines reflecting Islamic traditions are also included

as voluntary pilgrimages by followers of Islam.Many women see reading text correctly as a way to protect their rights and consider veiling as a confirmation of their cultural identity instead of a symbol of female oppression. The tourism industry in Islam covers various aspects, such as food, lodging, and cultural sites. Halal tourism is a recent addition to this industry, catering specifically to Muslim families who follow Sharia rules. In Islamic destinations, hotels refrain from serving alcohol and provide separate swimming pools and spa facilities for men and women. Countries like Malaysia, Turkey, and other Islamic nations are actively working towards becoming attractive tourist destinations for Muslims worldwide by offering facilities that align with their religious beliefs. The study of halal terms goes beyond just food in the field of nutrition. Even in-flight services adhere to halal guidelines by providing halal meals, not serving alcohol or pork products, announcing prayer times, and offering spiritual programs as entertainment on board. There is potential for a startup airline that caters exclusively to halal needs – one that offers halal meals, prayer calls, Qur'ans in seat pockets, and separate sections for male and female travelers according to Islamic teachings. Hotels also play an important role in the tourism industry by accommodating tourists.Many international hotels adhere to Islamic Sharia instructions and serve halal food, ensuring proper slaughtering methods and absence of forbidden substances like pork or alcohol. Some hotels also have Arabic-speaking staff members who assist Muslim tourists and provide translation services. Crescent Tours, a UK-based travel company, offers Halal Beach & Sun Holidays and Islamic Heritage Tours in Turkey. In Malaysia, hotel management provides the direction of kiblat

for prayer purposes. Regional instability, such as terrorist attacks by Muslim groups in Egypt [8], has negatively impacted tourism growth. Extensive studies have been conducted on the implications of Islam on tourism research [54]. One potential solution is for governments to control Western-style tourism while welcoming tourists regardless of their origin or religion. It is crucial for those working in the tourism industry in Islamic countries and their main markets to be aware of changing conditions and understand religious sensitivities to educate tourists about appropriate behavior. Research should focus on accommodating religious characteristics and developing codes of presentation and conduct at sites like shrines and mosques that attract tourists.The text discusses the challenges of reaching a consensus and concerns regarding the enforcement of Shariah law. It emphasizes the need for further research on the effects of media portrayal and attitudes among decision makers and influencers. The study focuses on how spiritual issues impact tourism activities in Islamic countries, exploring factors such as faith's role in decision making, behavior of Muslims as hosts and guests, and international collaboration in Islamic tourism. It highlights the importance of considering religious attributes when choosing travel destinations for approximately two billion potential customers in the global Muslim market. The absence of these attributes may deter them from visiting a particular place and can also affect interactions between Muslims and others. Understanding how Islamic properties contribute to tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty is essential, leading to the goal of empirically testing this relationship through the study.The importance of this text lies in its encouragement for Muslim destinations to cater to the needs of international Muslim tourists, in order to avoid potential

conflicts with their beliefs. This is particularly important when fellow Muslims are involved as tourists. While there may be variations in Muslim identities, conflicts over dress, food, behavior, and religious and social practices are less likely. In addition to pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia, there is a growing interest in travel within the Islamic community. This focus on intra-Islamic travel is emphasized by the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), which comprises 56 Islamic countries dedicated to the well-being of Muslims worldwide. These countries have a combined population of approximately 1.4 billion people, representing about 20% of the world's population. It is projected that this percentage will increase to over 30% by 2025. The tourism industry recognizes the significance of the Muslim population as a profitable market. Adapting to tourists from different backgrounds and cultures is crucial for maximizing profits. While non-Muslim visitors are welcomed and collaboration with international tourism agencies is acknowledged, catering to the needs of the Muslim market remains a priority