As Hong Kong strengthens its position as a global destination for luxury and cultural tourism, Island Shangri-La has taken a major step forward by achieving the prestigious 5-Crescent Muslim-friendly rating. This recognition highlights the hotel’s commitment to creating inclusive, culturally sensitive experiences that appeal strongly to the GCC market. For travel agents, the property represents a compelling proposition. With its dedicated Family Floor, Halal-compliant dining across all outlets, luxury wellness offerings, and immersive cultural experiences, Island Shangri-La is positioned as a preferred choice for Middle Eastern travelers seeking comfort, authenticity, and family-oriented luxury in Hong Kong.
To understand what this milestone means for the trade, ArabiaTravelNews.com spoke with Clifford Weiner, General Manager of Island Shangri-La Hotel, where he shares insights into the importance of certification, evolving GCC travel trends, and how the property is working with agents and operators to meet demand from GCC travelers.
Q: From a management perspective, how significant is the 5-Crescent Muslim-friendly accreditation for attracting GCC travelers?
The 5-Crescent Muslim-friendly rating is a significant achievement for Island Shangri-La. It enhances our appeal to GCC travelers and aligns with the Hong Kong Government’s Policy Address to promote inclusive tourism. It positions us as a trusted destination that offers Halal dining and Muslim-friendly facilities, combined with Shangri-La’s renowned Asian hospitality. Our partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board has increased visibility in the GCC region. This has led to a rise in bookings and reinforced our reputation for luxury and inclusivity.
Q: Beyond certification, how are you ensuring that Muslim guests feel genuinely welcomed when they stay at your hotels?
At Island Shangri-La, we go beyond the 5-Crescent Muslim-friendly certification. We ensure Muslim guests, including GCC travelers, feel genuinely welcomed through personalized service and Shangri-La’s signature Asian hospitality. Our team includes Arabic-speaking butlers who anticipate individual needs. We provide in-room Qurans, prayer mats, and Qibla directional signs to support religious practices. All of our restaurants offer Halal menus or Muslim-friendly dining options. We also provide tailored recommendations for attractions, shopping, and nearby Masjids. We create a culturally sensitive environment with thoughtful trip planning that ensures every guest feels valued, comfortable, and at home.
Q: Do you anticipate a growing demand from Middle Eastern travelers for family-focused luxury packages that combine leisure, shopping, and cultural immersion in Hong Kong?
We are definitely observing a rise in demand from Middle Eastern travelers for family-focused luxury packages that integrate leisure, shopping, and cultural immersion in Hong Kong. Island Shangri-La is well-equipped to cater to this trend with our dedicated Family Floor. The Family Floor offers 10 uniquely themed family rooms complete with a pantry, children’s workshops, a waterplay area, and tailored amenities for kids. These features are particularly popular among Middle Eastern families.
Our YUN WELLNESS program enhances the experience with family-friendly wellness activities, including guided meditation and relaxation sessions led by international practitioners. Our 28.5-meter heated outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by city views and comfortable cabanas, is an ideal space for families to enjoy quality time together. Located in the heart of Central, the hotel has direct access to a premier shopping destination and close proximity to major attractions and museums. This creates a seamless blend of luxury, convenience, and cultural enrichment for Middle Eastern travelers.
Q: Since achieving the Muslim-friendly rating, have you noticed a measurable increase in bookings or inquiries from GCC-based travel agents and operators?
Since achieving the 5-Crescent Muslim-friendly rating, Island Shangri-La has seen a notable increase in bookings and inquiries from GCC-based travel agents and operators. This certification has significantly contributed to our appeal among Muslim travelers. It assures Halal-friendly amenities and services that meet cultural and religious preferences.
Our dedicated Family Floor, introduced last year, has made the property even more appealing. The floor features 10 themed family rooms with a pantry, children’s workshops, a water-play area, and tailored amenities. It has become a top choice for families. Our two new presidential suites, the Shangri-La Suite and the Hong Kong Suite, cater to business and luxury travelers seeking spacious accommodations with stunning city views.
Our YUN WELLNESS program also enhances the experience with Halal-friendly spa treatments and wellness consultations. This appeals to high-end travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In addition, our Michelin-starred restaurant offers Halal-compliant dining options that complement the luxury experience.
Q: What role do you see the Middle East playing in Hong Kong’s broader tourism growth strategy over the next five years?
The Middle East is poised to play a pivotal role in Hong Kong’s tourism growth strategy over the next five years. The flight duration from the Middle East is convenient, and Hong Kong offers an appealing escape from the hot weather. The city’s world-class attractions, theme parks, shopping destinations, dining, and luxury hotels make it attractive to GCC travelers. Shangri-La Hotels in Hong Kong are focused on tailoring offerings to this growing market and supporting Hong Kong’s broader tourism development strategy.
Q: Over the past few years, how have you seen the profile of Middle Eastern travelers to Hong Kong evolve? Are they staying longer, spending differently, or traveling with larger families?
We have observed a clear evolution in the profile of Middle Eastern travelers to Hong Kong. These travelers are staying longer, which reflects a desire for more immersive experiences in the city. We are also seeing larger family groups traveling together, which highlights a preference for family-oriented leisure trips that combine Hong Kong’s diverse attractions, shopping, and cultural offerings.
Q: Which aspects of luxury hospitality are most in demand from GCC travelers today?
GCC travelers today prioritize a combination of personalized services, family-friendly experiences, and privacy. At Island Shangri-La, we provide bespoke services through offerings like our Quester Family Package. This includes intangible cultural heritage experiences such as a Chinese dim sum making class and a tea brewing workshop at Ming Pavilion. Family travel is also a priority, and our Family Floor has been exceptionally popular with this demographic. For those seeking exclusivity, we provide luxury packages that include private yacht rides, personalized butler services, and exclusive access to the Aberdeen Marina Club. These experiences deliver privacy and personalization that resonate strongly with GCC travelers.
Q: How important are cultural and religious considerations in winning loyalty from Middle Eastern guests compared to other markets?
Cultural and religious considerations are critical in earning loyalty from Middle Eastern guests. They carry more weight than in many other markets because Middle Eastern guests value a seamless and respectful experience. At Shangri-La Hotels in Hong Kong, we prioritize these needs with tailored services. Every restaurant offers Halal menus, and we provide special arrangements during Islamic holidays such as Ramadan. In-room amenities include Qibla directional signs, copies of the Quran, and prayer mats. We also recommend nearby Masjids to enhance convenience. Our Arabic-speaking butlers provide personalized support, ensuring a culturally sensitive and stress-free stay. This approach fosters loyalty and long-term trust.
Q: How are you balancing the needs of your traditional markets with the emerging importance of Middle Eastern travelers?
Island Shangri-La has always prioritized personalized service. This allows us to balance the expectations of traditional markets with the emerging importance of Middle Eastern travelers. We tailor dining and itinerary planning to meet the preferences of each group. This ensures all guests enjoy a customized and high-quality experience. Our approach creates balance and allows us to serve all markets effectively while continuing to grow in new segments.
