Welcome to London in Ramadan 2026
By AbdulMaalik Tailor, Friday 6th February 2026
As we edge closer to the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslim communities across the world will begin fasting from sunrise to sunset. Britain is no exception. Across the country, Muslims will observe the fast, while many non-Muslims also choose to fast for a day or two to experience Ramadan first-hand —and not even water!
Britain is widely recognised as the most halal-friendly destination in the West, excluding Bosnia and Turkey. According to Crescentrating’s Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025 the UK has retained this position for the last three years and currently ranks second among non-Organisation of Islamic Countries. The UK scores highly for accessibility, halal dining, Muslim-friendly services such as prayer facilities and cultural inclusivity.
The Economic Opportunity
Travellers from the GCC made 24.4 million outbound visits in 2024, with total international tourism expenditure reaching US$75.4 billion.
In the same year, the UK welcomed 1.0 million visitors from GCC countries, generating £2.2 billion in expenditure and an average spend of £2,143 per visit.
Source: VisitBritain – GCC Market Insights
Travellers from Malaysia made 11.3 million outbound visits in 2024, spending US$11.6 billion globally.
The UK welcomed 131,000 Malaysian visitors, generating £202.7 million, with an average spend of £1,553 per visit.
Source: VisitBritain – Malaysia Market Insights
In addition, Britain attracts visitors from Muslim-majority countries including Indonesia, Pakistan, Somalia, Egypt, Morocco, Libya, Tunisia, Sudan, Uzbekistan, Bosnia, Bangladesh, Algeria, The Gambia, Iran, Turkey, Jordan, Palestine, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and many others.
While religion is not recorded in arrival statistics, it is clear that Muslims also travel from “non-Muslim” countries across Europe and North America for business, leisure, and to visit friends and family. As such, the true number of Muslim travellers to Britain is significantly higher than what we may know.
Ramadan 2026: A Marketing Opportunity for Britain
Ramadan 2026 presents a unique opportunity for Britain’s travel trade to promote the country as a destination to explore before, during, and after Ramadan. From spiritual gatherings and cultural experiences to shopping, dining, and family-friendly events, Britain comes alive during this sacred month.
Pre-Ramadan Highlights
One of the earliest major attractions is Europe’s largest Muslim shopping festival, taking place on 7–8 February 2026 at ExCeL London. Featuring shopping, dining, and the Muslim Travel Show, the event is expected to attract over 20,000 visitors, making it a true pre-Ramadan extravaganza.
Ramadan Tent Project (RTP)
Now in its 13th year, the award-winning Ramadan Tent Project continues to bring communities together through its Open Iftar events held at iconic locations across Britain. Last year included a historic Open Iftar at Windsor Castle, where guests shared meals with some blessed ones learning about Windsor Castle’s rich Muslim connections by me — from Ottoman links to priceless Islamic artefacts such as the gifted Kiswah (black cloth that covers the Kabah in Mecca, Saudi Arabia)
For 2026, RTP has announced Open Iftars at a Historic Royal Palace The Banqueting House (the site of the first performance of Othello in 1604 and inspired by the Moroccan ambassador’s Abdul Wahid’s visit of 1600 ), and Silverstone Circuit, which may become the world’s first race-track iftar.
The season launched with the Welcome Ramadan Conference at Soho Theatre, a building inspired by the architecture of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain). Originally part of the Granada Theatre chain, its Jewish founder, Stanley Bernstein, drew inspiration from the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. Soho Theatre will also host an Open Iftar, and guided tours of the building will run toward the end of Ramadan.
The final RTP Open Iftar traditionally takes place at Trafalgar Square — which, interestingly, has Arabic origins. The name derives from Taraf al-Gharb, meaning “edge of the west,” a story we proudly include in our Central London tours and referred to as the Arabic Square!
Ramadan Lights London
Now in its fourth year, Ramadan Lights London returns to Piccadilly’s Coventry Street with 30,000 energy-saving neon lights, featuring Islamic geometric designs. The lights are expected to be switched on a few days before Ramadan by a high-profile line-up, often including the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
The lights will shine daily from 5:00pm to 5:00am until 24 March 2026, marking Eid. The event is free, family-friendly, and accompanied by a halal food trail around Piccadilly, offering visitors convenient options to break their fast.
More information: www.ramadanlightslondon.com
Rahima Aziz, Trustee at the Aziz Foundation funders of Ramadan Lights, says:
“Ramadan Lights London is our open invitation to people of all beliefs and backgrounds to come together and experience the values at the heart of Ramadan… a shining symbol of London’s rich diversity and community spirit.”
Laylatul Qadr
Within Ramadan lies Laylatul Qadr, believed to be the night the Qur’an was revealed, occurring in the last ten nights of the month. Worship, charity, and community engagement intensify during this period.
One of the most significant events is Light Upon Light, held annually at ExCeL London, featuring Mufti Menk as the main speaker. Attracting over 10,000 attendees, the event combines inspirational talks, communal iftar, charity appeals, shopping, and late-night prayers. More information: www.lightuponlight.co.uk
Muslim-Friendly Accommodation
For accommodation, HalalBooking offers a wide range of Muslim-friendly hotels across Britain, including options to remove alcohol from minibars and filter by halal dining availability.
One standout property is The Marble Arch Hotel, which has created a comprehensive Ramadan guide for halal travellers to London, including local mosque and prayer areas, iftar options, and Ramadan-specific guest services — making it an excellent stay for visitors to London. More information: www.marblearchhotellondon.com/ramadan-2026-london-iftar-options/
With world-class Ramadan events, halal-friendly infrastructure, and deep historical connections, Britain offers Muslim travellers something truly unique during this sacred month.
For the global travel trade, Ramadan 2026 is not just a moment to observe — but an opportunity to invite the world to experience Britain at its most welcoming….!
Halal Tourism in Britain and around the world is projected to grow to $410 Billion Dollars by 2032
AbdulMaalik Tailor was recently interviewed about his journey to becoming a leader in Halal Tourism. How does a convert to Islam become a sort after trainer and speaker in Halal Tourism?
World Hijab day and International Women’s Day
Celebrating Muslim Women in History & Today With World Hijab Day 
(Sunday 1 February) and International Women’s Day 
(Sunday 8 March 2026) approaching, how will your workplace celebrate and amplify the stories of Muslim women?
Why not book our inspiring Muslim Women’s Tour in Central London?
This unique experience uncovers powerful, often-forgotten stories of Muslim women who shaped Britain’s past and continue to inspire today.
What you’ll discover:
The first British woman to perform Hajj in 1933
A forgotten female law student who challenged the exclusion of women from the legal profession
A British socialite who embraced Islam on a journey to Paris
The fascinating story of the “Spy Princess”
The daughter of the last Ottoman Sultan
A Muslim woman who led a national organisation in the 1930s
Lady Mary Wortley Montagu’s observations of Muslim women in the 1700s
More ways to explore London:
Join our guided sightseeing bus tour, covering more of the capital, with convenient hop-on/hop-off options and pick-up and drop-off from your location.
Yes, it’s also available in Ramadan 
Want to discover more?
Get in touch to find out how to book and make your workplace celebrations meaningful, educational, and unforgettable.
#WorldHijabDay #InternationalWomensDay #MuslimWomen #HiddenHistories #WomensHistory #DiversityAndInclusion #DEI #FaithAndCulture #LondonTours #HerStory #InclusiveWorkplaces #MuslimHeritage
September 2025 – Speaking in Parliament, London, UK
As part of the Rail 200 celebrations in the UK, our founder proudly participated in the Muslims in Rail project, which explores the historic and contemporary contributions of Muslims to Britain’s railway heritage. The project was officially launched at the House of Commons, in the presence of Baroness Uddin and key leaders from across the rail industry.
The event was kindly sponsored by Muslim Aid, whose support helped shine a light on this important and often overlooked part of British history.
Our founder, AbdulMaalik Tailor, delivered a captivating and insightful presentation that attendees described as “entertaining” and ”Energetic, informative and thoroughly historically fascinating! Always learn a lot when Abdul Maalik speaks. Especially hidden historical gems that you never knew were out there. I wish he could’ve gone on longer!” Hassan Ahmed. Co-founder and Director of Muslim in Rail
Did you know that the earliest Muslim link to British railways goes back nearly 200 years?
One striking example is the Moorish Arch, an iconic architectural feature on the world’s first inter-city passenger railway: the Liverpool to Manchester line, which opened in 1830. Inspired by Islamic architecture, the arch symbolised the fascination with Moorish design in early 19th-century Britain, making it an early — and powerful — symbol of Muslim cultural influence in the railways. Image above.
Aug 2025 Halal Tourism Britain wins again an award
We are named @Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards Winner for 2025
Recognised as a Top-Rated Tour in the UK
Delighted to announce it has been recognised in Tripadvisor’s® Traveller’s Choice® Awards 2025. This prestigious award places us among the top 10% of listings worldwide on Tripadvisor.
The award is based on genuine feedback from travellers who visited and shared authentic reviews on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period. As such, it stands as a meaningful reflection of visitor satisfaction and a mark of consistent excellence.
I like to, express gratitude to:
“our visitors, reviewers, and staff who have made this recognition possible. We are honoured to be included among travellers’ favourites in successive years since 2019”
Kristen Dalton, President of Tripadvisor, congratulated Muslim History Tours on the achievement:
“Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took the time to share glowing reviews online. We hope this recognition continues to drive success for you in 2025 and beyond.”
We offer unique guided experiences across the UK, uncovering the often-overlooked contributions of Muslims to British history and culture and Halal dining experiences on the River Thames.
In the media
AbdulMaalik Tailor is interviewed by Al Jazeera as Halal travel expert
2nd Feb 2025
Our founder, AbdulMaalik Tailor was interviewed by Al Jazeera News for his views about the Niche to mainstream: Evolution of Halal Tourism in globel travel industry Click title to read
Blog: How to Know Prayer Timings While Traveling? Best Guide for Muslim Travelers By Rafia Tahir.
Aug 2024
The five daily prayers, or Salah, are an integral part of Islam’s belief system. They are the second pillar of faith behind Tawheed, the Oneness of Allah (SWT). Muslims cannot delay or miss prayer unless there is a valid reason.
We know from the life of the Prophet (SAWW) that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) and his companions (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) used to offer prayer even when they were on a journey or facing an army on the battlefield. It is necessary to maintain punctuality when praying Salah, even while traveling.
Importance of Regularity in Salah
Salah was made compulsory after the Prophet (SAWW) went on a Night Journey (al-Isra) and Ascended (al-Miraj) to heaven. The word Salah appears 83 times in the Quran underlying its significance, such as in the following verse from Surah al-Baqarah:
“Be wakeful of your service of prayer, and the midmost service; and honour God by standing before Him in devotion.” [2:238]
The companions (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) of the Holy Prophet (SAWW) frequently asked him about the best deeds they could do to gain Allah’s (SWT) favour and he used to have one answer; Salah at its proper time. Umm Farwa (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا) narrates the following tradition:
“The Prophet was asked: ‘Which deed is the best?’ So he said: ‘Salat in the beginning of its time.'” [Jami at-Tirmidhi, Vol, 1, Book 2, Hadith 170]
You can click here and find out the prayer timings for any city. You can even type in the precise longitudes and latitudes and any date of your choice to see when each prayer will be prayed in that area. This way, you can find the prayer timings well before you reach the place.
Ways to Know Prayer Timings During Travel
Maintaining regularity in prayer can be difficult while traveling. In the time of the Prophet (SAW), traveling was done on foot or camelback. Each journey could take a few days to several months, depending on the distance. This is why travellers are given leeway to pray shortened prayers, also known as Qasr.
While travellers can shorten their prayers, they must offer all five prayers at prescribed times. Here are some ways you can keep track of prayer timings yourself while traveling;
Keep Track by Observing the Sky
The timing for each prayer is determined based on the position of the Sun in the sky. This is why prayer timings vary from place to place, even if you are traveling within the same country. An authentic hadith narrated by Hazrat Abu Huraira (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) goes as follows:
Allah’s Messenger said: “Indeed for (the time of) Salat (there is a) beginning and an end. The beginning of the time for the Zuhr prayer is when the sun passes the zenith, and the end of its time is when the time for Asr enters. The beginning of the time for the Asr [prayer] is when its time enters, and the end of its time is when the sun yellows (turns pale). The beginning of the time of Maghrib is when the sun as set, and the end of its time is when the twilight has vanished (i.e., the horizon is invisible because of darkness). The beginning of the time for Isha, the later one, is when the horizon has vanished, and the end of its time is when the night is at its half. The beginning of the time for Fajr is when Fajr begins, and its end is when the sun rises.” [Jami at-Tirmidhi, Vol.1, Book 2, Hadith 151]
It is, however, difficult to tell timings based on the sky unless you are an expert and know what you are looking for. Especially for countries like the UK, where the sky is often overcast, observation may not even be relevant. Nonetheless, telling time in this way is an old tradition that experts are still using.
Inquire from the Local Mosque
This is a good option if you are traveling to a place with a Muslim majority. You may not even have to inquire as you hear the Adhan, the call to prayer, loud and clear. The issue arises where Muslims are not in the majority, like in the UK.
Still, the UK has a sizeable Muslim population, particularly in some areas where Muslims are densely populated. Here, you can find a mosque and ask the imam about the prayer timings so you can remain punctual. Fellow Muslims are also more than willing to help out and give guidance, so feel free to ask.
Install a Prayer Alert Application
This is the simplest option that gives accurate results consistently. Everyone has a smartphone nowadays. You can install a mobile application that provides prayer alerts throughout the day. Since these alerts are based on location, they are automatically synched with the local prayer time. No matter where you are or where you travel, prayer alert applications provide timely reminders to offer prayer.
Many prayer applications come with additional features that can help you offer prayer. These features may include a complete version of the Holy Quran, multiple books of traditions, and important supplications. Applications can also show qibla directions so you can offer prayers anywhere.
You will need to download the application and allow it to access your location to detect where you are. Such applications also need internet access to remain up-to-date.
Shortening or Combining Prayers
Travelers are given leniency when it comes to offering prayers and fasting. Since traveling used to be quite difficult during the time of the Holy Prophet (SAW), exceptions were made by offering Salah and fasting during Ramadan.
Travelers, for example, are allowed to delay keeping fasts during the month of Ramadan until they reach their destination. Similarly, travellers can shorten prayers. Qasr prayers can be offered by those who are traveling a certain distance away from their home. The prescribed distance varies depending upon which school of Islamic jurisprudence you follow, however, allowance for Qasr prayers is present in each school.
Similarly, travellers can combine prayers like praying Dhuhr and Asr and combining Maghrib and Isha, or pray the m successively. Qasr prayers and combining prayers make offering Salah more convenient and assist believers with fulfilling their obligatory duties towards Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) has made Islam easy for us. He is fully aware of human limitations and has added conveniences in the matter of Islam so we can become better Muslims.
Check Online
Another way you can remain punctual in praying while traveling is by checking the timings online. Many websites will give you the exact timings for each prayer for nearly every country and city on earth. Using such resources is straightforward. You simply have to provide your location, and you will get the timings for five daily prayers.
Guidance for Muslim Travelers
Modern advances have made traveling convenient and fast. Compared to recent times, traveling at the time of the Prophet (SAW) was a huge undertaking. Even in the burning heat of the desert, the Prophet (SAW) and his companions (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) never missed their duty towards Allah (SWT).
Muslims have tons of resources they can use to help them remain on the right path. There are no excuses for missing salah or being forgetful of other duties that we have as Muslims.
Regents Park Mosque