Shaha Meta on Safe and Inclusive Spaces for Muslim Tourists
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| The Cove 2 at Boracay Newcoast is a recognized Muslim-friendly beach in the island with a dedicated area for Muslimahs and their families. |
Traveling as a Muslim woman can be a bit of a challenge due to the need for Muslim-friendly accommodations, halal food, and prayer spaces; a holiday often requires extra planning and caution. For global Muslim influencer Shaha Meta, with over 2.7 million followers across her social media platforms, these challenges are all too familiar. She shyly admitted that, growing up, she often left her hijab at home to avoid the curious stares and unwelcome attention she received in public.
Now happily married and raising young children, Shaha prioritizes family time, creating meaningful memories while ensuring that they can practice their faith freely wherever they go. Finding safe, inclusive spaces where they can express their beliefs and enjoy activities together has become a top priority in her travels.
In this tête-à-tête, Shaha opens up about her faith, personal experiences, and the struggles Muslim families face while traveling. She also highlights her trip to Boracay Newcoast, of Megawrold and the importance of creating Muslim-friendly spaces and facilities that provide comfort, security, and the freedom to explore the world without compromising faith or well-being.
What is your greatest motivation to keep on making “Day in the Life” videos of a Muslim woman?
The Vienne Restaurant located at the ground floor of Savoy Hotel Boracay offers halal certified and Muslim-friendly food options everyone can enjoy.
As a Muslim woman, my motivation comes from a desire to share my personal experience to break stereotypes and provide an accurate Muslimah (Muslim woman) representation on social media. I lived in Europe for 10 years and saw how differently and unfairly Muslims are treated there. This inspired me to dream of being one of the reasons for positive change. I believe my presence on social media can help foster understanding and connection by showcasing the everyday lives of Muslim women, often dispelling misconceptions and highlighting the diversity of experiences within the community.
I aim to empower Muslimahs through visibility, promoting a sense of belonging, and offering a space for conversations about Islam, culture, and personal journeys. By sharing this content, I hope to inspire others to embrace their identities with pride and confidence while fostering mutual respect and understanding across different cultures and communities.
Was there a defining moment that strengthened your advocacy for Muslim women wearing the hijab?
I didn't always wear the hijab. There were moments when I felt the pressure of society and the challenge of balancing my identity as a young woman with the expectations of wearing the hijab. But Alhamdulillah (thank God), with time, reflection, and the support of those around me, I grew stronger in my faith and found the courage to wear the hijab with confidence.
I want to inspire young Muslimahs like myself to overcome their struggles. One moment that stands out is when I was in General Santos, and a group of teenagers came up to me. They told me I was the reason they chose to wear the hijab. At that moment, I was overwhelmed with emotion—I could not hold back my tears. It’s one of the most humbling and beautiful experiences I’ve had.
Every time someone approaches me and says, “I want to wear the hijab because of you,” my heart swells with happiness. It’s not just about the hijab itself but about the connection it creates and the way it sparks conversations about faith, identity, and confidence. I realize that by living authentically and embracing my faith, I can positively impact others.
What are your top three challenges when traveling as a Muslim woman?
Traveling as a Muslim woman comes with several challenges. One of the biggest difficulties is adhering to modest dress codes, especially in places where local norms differ. Another factor is finding halal food can also be a significant challenge, particularly in regions where options are limited, or halal certification is difficult to verify. Also, the lack of access to prayer spaces, making it difficult to maintain regular prayers.
However, there are places that make the experience easier. Hotels like Belmont Hotel Boracay and Savoy Hotel Boracay have been incredibly helpful, as they offer 100% halal food in their restaurants, prayer rooms, Qiblah direction guides, and other amenities that cater to the needs of Muslim travelers. During my stay at these hotels, I felt completely safe, accepted, and at ease, knowing that my religious practices and dietary needs were respected.
How does Boracay being declared a Muslim-friendly destination in the Philippines align with your travel and experience needs?
Boracay being declared a Muslim-friendly destination is a welcome development for Muslim families like mine, Alhamdulillah! It aligns with our needs by providing a safe and inclusive environment where we can practice our faith comfortably.
Boracay Newcoast is a destination that makes it easier for us to enjoy our vacation while adhering to our religious practices. The availability of halal restaurants and accommodations that respect Islamic values ensures we can maintain our daily rituals without compromise. This not only provides convenience but also gives us peace of mind, allowing us to fully enjoy our time in Boracay as a Muslim family.
A great supporter of Halal tourism in the Philippines, Shaha Meta was one of the Muslim influencers invited by the Department of Tourism for the launch of Marhaba Boracay project on September 10, 2024. This initiative is initiated by the local government Unit of Malay, Aklan and the DOT, in partnership with Megaworld Hotels and Resorts as part of the ongoing efforts to promote Muslim-friendly tourism in the island.
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