As the Hari Raya holiday approaches, Agoda has tracked an almost 80% month-on-month increase in accommodation searches from travellers in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore for this year’s festive period.
Hari Raya, or Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, spiritual reflection, and community for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for joy, connection, and celebration. For those operating in the travel sector, it is also a critical peak period that offers plenty of opportunities to deliver services tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers during this period.
According to the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024, over 70% of the global Muslim population is under 40 years old. This younger and tech-savvy demographic has high disposable income and is eager to travel, representing a major market for Halal-compliant services.
Key insights on what this means for hoteliers based on Agoda’s research include:
- Prepare for multi-generational travel – According to Agoda’s trends report for 2025, more than a third of travelers (34%) plan to travel with family in 2025. Given this is a holiday focused on family, preparing packages or making it easy to search for large group options will support booking conversions. Also, enhance your guest experience with specialized concierge services that arrange local cultural tours, family-friendly transportation, and personalized recommendations to suit a diverse age group as well as diverse cultural interests.
- Elevate dining and in-house celebrations – Hari Raya is incomplete without feasting and gathering with loved ones. Hotels can seize this opportunity by offering exclusive Hari Raya themed dining experiences within their restaurants, including specially curated menus and family meal packages. Also, provide comprehensive catering services for in-house festive gatherings and banquets.
- Showcase relevant Halal credentials – With growing demand for Halal-compliant travel options, ensure that your property’s offerings such as halal food, prayer facilities, and Muslim-friendly environments are clearly communicated to attract a broader audience. Prominently display certifications and quality marks that verify your adherence to Halal standards.
- Put values front and centre – Highlight your commitment to community and inclusivity. Muslim travelers during this season value brands that resonate with their cultural and ethical principles. Hotels can use their social channels to showcase real guest experiences and community initiatives, reinforcing your brand’s values. As reported by Agoda, Gen Z are always looking for their next adventure on Tik Tok and Instagram. Additionally, conducting cultural training for hospitality staff to promote cultural understanding and communication will resonate with Muslim travelers.
Jun Dong, Associate Vice President, Agoda said: “Understanding and anticipating the key holidays in a region as diverse as Asia is critical to being successful in today’s hotel market. Hari Raya is a major holiday for the travel industry globally, and in this region, we are seeing increased interest in exploring overseas destinations to enjoy a wide range of cultural experiences. Hotels should focus on catering to diverse audiences during this time to offer packages and bespoke services that will deliver memorable experiences for this festive holiday.”
