Elyn Hastriana – Hajj and Umrah Travel Business Owner
As the owner of a Hajj and Umrah travel business in Indonesia, I have a unique perspective on Muslim women’s valuable impact on the tourism industry. Muslim women contribute to this sector, particularly in religious tourism, such as Hajj and Umrah services.
In Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, Muslim women are increasingly taking on prominent roles in the tourism industry. They bring distinctive insights and a deep understanding of Muslim travelers’ needs, predominantly female travelers who may have specific requirements related to privacy, accommodation arrangements, and religious practices during their journeys.
Muslim women entrepreneurs in tourism are creating innovative approaches to halal tourism. Their presence in the industry helps ensure services are designed with Islamic values and practices in mind. This includes providing appropriate prayer facilities and halal food options, organizing women-only tours, and providing female-led guidance for religious rituals.
The contribution of Muslim women extends beyond just business ownership. Many serve as tour guides, religious advisors, customer service representatives, and marketing specialists. Their involvement helps create a more comfortable environment for female travelers, particularly those journeying for religious purposes who may prefer female guidance and support during significant spiritual experiences.
As a business owner in the Hajj and Umrah sectors, I have the opportunity to empower more Muslim women within my operations. By including women in key positions, I can better serve my female clients and bring diverse perspectives to my business strategy. This inclusion can lead to service innovations addressing specific needs that might be overlooked.
The increasing representation of Muslim women in tourism also contributes to broader economic empowerment. It provides career opportunities in a growing industry and allows women to utilize their knowledge of Islamic practices and traditions as valuable professional expertise. This economic participation strengthens communities and provides role models for younger generations.
Muslim women are also at the forefront of developing specialized tourism products that cater to the growing segment of Muslim travelers worldwide. From modest fashion tourism to halal culinary experiences, women entrepreneurs are expanding the definition of Islamic tourism beyond just religious pilgrimages.
By championing the role of Muslim women in my travel business, I can position my company as a progressive leader in the industry while maintaining deep respect for Islamic traditions and values. This balanced approach can differentiate my services in an increasingly competitive market.
About Me: Elyn Hastriana
With over two decades immersed in Indonesian tourism, I’ve worn many hats—practitioner, national tour leader, assessor, and entrepreneur. My travel agency specializes in creating memorable experiences through outbound, inbound, and domestic tours, while also providing visa and ticketing services.
As a certified national assessor with BNSP (National Professional Certification Agency), I’ve had the privilege of evaluating hundreds of aspiring Tour Leaders. My expertise has also led me to roles as a consultant and auditor for national tourism companies seeking to elevate their standards.
My international background has deeply shaped my approach to tourism. Before establishing my business in Indonesia, I gained valuable experience working with Multi-National Corporations in Thailand and Singapore, developing a global perspective on hospitality excellence.
Born in Mataram on March 31, 1972, my journey began in a family of civil servants and diplomats. This upbringing blessed me with a nomadic education—elementary school in Samarinda (East Kalimantan), starting junior high in Kendari (Southeast Sulawesi) before continuing in Malang (East Java), and completing both high school and my Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Bangkok, Thailand.
After 15 enriching years in Singapore’s vibrant tourism industry, I returned to Indonesia in 2010 with a dream to build something meaningful in my homeland’s tourism sector. Currently, I’m pursuing my Master’s degree in Tourism at Jakarta’s prestigious Trisakti Institute of Tourism, continuously expanding my knowledge to better serve our beautiful country’s visitors.
Feel free to connect with me directly at ehastriana@gmail.com. I’d love to discuss how we might collaborate in showcasing Indonesia’s magnificent destinations.
