Where Travellers are going this Eid & How the Industry is Adapting to Demand

It’s that time again for reunion, feasting, and joy, with millions of Muslims worldwide packing their suitcases, booking last-minute flights, or bracing themselves for traffic at Manchester’s Curry Mile en route to family gatherings. Eid al-Fitr is finally upon us, as the crescent moon will soon be sighted after a month of fasting, reflection, and (let’s be honest, as it happens for me every night) some serious late-night food cravings. 

Eid Travel 2025: Global Destinations & Market Trends

Muslims would travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah during Ramadan and celebrate Eid (photo: Canva)

Eid has been shaping travel trends for years. During Ramadan, people have always travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, and halal-conscious operators have generated yearly revenues based on this period. The industry has evolved and has had to meet the needs of halal-conscious travellers wanting to travel to different destinations. The question is, what are airlines, tour operators, and destinations doing to tap into one of the world’s fastest-growing travel periods?

The travel landscape is shaped by nostalgia, economic caution, and a thirst for experiences beyond the usual sightseeing. Eid has become a commercial focal point within the travel sector, which renowned travel writer Tharik Hussain told me once, “Christmas has always been a huge success commercially, and it just took a bit of time for Eid to catch up in the Western part of the world.” Whilst Eid is gaining more and more recognition, there is still room for more visibility. Apart from packed trains, congested motorways, and a frantic rush for the best Eid outfits, more and more are travelling abroad. 

Top Halal Holiday Destinations for Eid

Marrakech is a top destination for Eid (photo: Canva)

We’ve had weekend city breaks and retreats, but Eid-themed trips and experience days are gaining traction. When I spoke to several Muslim tour operators, they all told me that they have been eagerly awaiting Eid as it’s one of the most prominent periods for business. Esra at Halalbooking told me that Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt; Dubai, UAE; Marrakech, Morrocco; and Istanbul, Turkey, have been the most sought-after places.

HalalHolidayCheck also explained about the same spots being high on their Eid-themed packages. SalamBooking also said it was the same spot but added, “Morocco, Marrakech or Fes are great for exploring culture and history. In Turkey, Istanbul is perfect for historical sites and family activities. Antalya is also a great option for a more relaxing holiday. Dubai is a great place for a city-themed trip. Cairo, Egypt, offers the pyramids and historical sites, whilst Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada are ideal for beaches and water activities.” Muslim tour operators are curating packages that blend celebration with cultural experiences. I also posed this question to mainstream operators, and their responses were revealing.  

Opportunities for Tour Operators

Operators missing out? (photo: Canva)

Despite the growing demand, operators like Flight Centre, Hays Travel, and Expedia Holidays don’t have specific packages for Eid yet. When I asked why, they said they didn’t have the mass audience to create one. By all means, they said they could book trips to Egypt, Turkey, and Morocco, but they were not Eid-orientated. If Christmas and Easter can be marketed, surely they are missing out on Eid. It’s fascinating and perhaps an area of the business they could look at for expansion through the expertise of Halal Travel Network (HTN).

UK Eid Celebrations & Community Gatherings

Local communities will set up gatherings and events (photo: Canva)

Beyond international travel, local celebrations are evolving year by year. London is the best place in the U.K. for festivities, and one specific day to look out for is this Sunday, 30th March, at sunset, for the London Eye Light Up for Eid. To mark the end of Ramadan, The lastminute.com London Eye will glow in shades of green, symbolising generosity, giving, and gratitude which lies at the heart of Eid. You can join this iconic landmark to light up the skyline and celebrate one of the most meaningful moments in the Islamic calendar. The best spots to watch are the South Bank, Embankment, and Westminster Bridge, all offering stunning views of the illuminated Eye against the Thames.

Manchester is celebrating Eid this year with ‘Eid in the Park’, held in Platt Fields Park, which includes Eid prayers, a funfair, food stalls, and other activities. Curry Mile will be rocking with restaurants offering an array of delicious cuisines and dessert places to celebrate. All information can be found at visitmanchester.com. 

Other major cities across the U.K. haven’t got anything confirmed, but when speaking with the local tourism board, they all confirmed that local communities will set up gatherings and events. 

Future of Eid Travel – Adapting to Halal-Conscious Tourism Demands

The core are travelling and seeking a destination that aligns with their values (photo: Canva)

Globally, the demand for travel during Eid is booming. In Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, there is an influx of regional travellers, and halal-friendly resorts are tailoring their offerings to match the festive mood. 

Yet, the most intriguing aspect isn’t just where people are going but why. The core are travelling and seeking a destination that aligns with their values, whether that’s ethical tourism experiences, heritage explorations, or community-driven stays. It’s not just about halal dining and prayer spaces. 

For halal-conscious travellers, Eid is no longer just about the journey home––it’s about discovering places that reflect their values whilst embracing the celebration. Some businesses in the industry are ahead of the curve, curating experiences that blend celebration with culture, whilst others need to play catch-up. The only question is, who will lead the way? One thing is clear: Eid is a time of unity and joy that continues to bring the world closer together. 

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