Halal guide
Spain a 'halal-friendly' country
If you're seeking a destination that prioritizes your requirements and ensures your comfort during your vacation, Spain is a top recommendation. Renowned for its inclusive approach to all religions, Spain boasts a plethora of accommodations that cater specifically to Muslim clientele. Notably, a significant number of hotels readily adapt to meet the needs of Muslim guests.
When it comes to dining, Spain shines with its renowned Mediterranean cuisine, celebrated for its emphasis on fresh vegetables, seafood, and a rich influence of Arab culinary traditions. You'll find an array of dishes inspired by Arab cuisine, offering a delightful culinary journey. Moreover, in Spain, certain products and services proudly bear the Halal Certification, issued by the prestigious Halal Institute. This certification signifies adherence to Islamic law's requirements, ensuring products' compliance with Halal standards. Initially associated with food products, this certification is now increasingly sought after by hotels, restaurants, cosmetic companies, Arab baths, and more. For further details, visit the Halal Institute's official website.
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Halal restaurants and hotels
The selection of restaurants offering halal options in Spain is extensive, ensuring you always have vegetarian choices or dishes tailored to your preferences. From classics like gazpacho and paella to innovative creations like ajoblanco and pil pil cod, there's something to delight every palate. Several restaurants have already obtained the prestigious Halal Certification, including El Faro in Marbella and Los Almendros in Cordoba. Additionally, many establishments are willing to accommodate special requests for dishes prepared according to Sharia or Islamic law if arranged in advance. Noteworthy initiatives, such as Chef Paco Morales's restaurant Noor in Cordoba, specialize in halal haute cuisine, offering a unique and refined dining experience. For added convenience, consider consulting the restaurant directly or utilizing popular online platforms like Yelp or TheFork to locate halal-friendly establishments across various Spanish destinations. When it comes to accommodation, Spain offers a diverse range of high-quality, family-friendly options with inviting atmospheres. Alanda Hotel Marbella, for instance, has secured certification from the Halal Institute, providing tailored services for the Islamic market, including strict adherence to dietary requirements and designated prayer areas. In cities like Madrid, you'll also find hotel chains that cater to Muslim guests by offering Qibla direction indicators in guest rooms or providing prayer facilities.
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Religious services in airports
In the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, there are two mosques situated in the public area of the exits to terminals T2 and T4. Halal meals are also served in the Aena VIP lounges. In the Málaga-Costa del Sol airport there is a multi-faith prayer room which welcomes all religions including Islam, located in the arrivals hall of terminal T3. This room has no images and one of the walls is decorated with different material and special lighting, facing Mecca, for prayer. In the Barcelona-El Prat airport there is also a multi-faith prayer room situated in terminal T1, with no type of decoration at all. The same is the case in the airports of Gran Canaria and Tenerife Sur. Each one is equipped with a multi-faith prayer room with no images or religious symbols. In Melilla Airport, in the public facilities in the check-in area, there is a wash basin adapted for ablution prior to ‘salat’.
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Official mosques in Spain
Spain boasts over 250 official mosques and Islamic religious centers across the country. The Spanish Ministry of Justice website features a dedicated search engine specifically for places of worship, providing a comprehensive list of these establishments.
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Religious celebrations
Cordoba and Granada are popular choices among Muslims seeking to observe Ramadan due to their extended daylight hours. Throughout Ramadan, various institutions including Casa Árabe, Cordoba City Council, and the Halal Institute host special events such as the "Noches de Ramadán" in Cordoba. This unique program features a diverse range of activities including film screenings, workshops, discussions, exhibitions, concerts, and more, providing enriching experiences for participants.
Other useful websites
