Advanced International Practices for Implementing Halal Tourism Standards in the Development of Pilgrimage Tourism

Halal tourism has emerged as a significant sector in the global tourism industry, integrating ethical, cultural, and religious dimensions into travel experiences. Pilgrimage tourism, in particular, has gained momentum as Muslim travelers increasingly seek services aligned with Islamic values, supported by the activities of halal certification organizations worldwide. Despite the rapid growth of halal tourism, inconsistencies in certification systems, differences in Sharia interpretations, and the lack of a unified international standard remain unresolved challenges, limiting its sustainable development and international recognition. This study aims to analyze international practices in halal tourism certification, focusing on the experiences of leading countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, the UAE, Thailand, Canada, and the USA, and to propose recommendations for advancing halal tourism standards in Uzbekistan. The analysis revealed the activities of 85 organizations across 47 countries, including key bodies such as AHF (USA), JAKIM (Malaysia), CHB (Canada), and ESMA (UAE), highlighting their contributions to food, hospitality, pharmaceuticals, and logistics sectors. Comparative evaluation showed both opportunities and shortcomings, including issues of transparency, legal inconsistencies, and limited consumer awareness. This research provides a comprehensive examination of global halal certification systems, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and develops targeted recommendations for Uzbekistan to establish its own halal tourism model based on international best practices. Implementing scientifically grounded standards, transparent certification, and cross-national collaborations will not only strengthen consumer trust but also position Uzbekistan as a competitive destination in the global halal tourism market.