MALTA

Halal-friendly holidays

Malta Airport (MLA) is the official airport to all of the archipelago and most major flight operators from most UK airports will fly there. To get around Malta, buses and boats are inexpensive and easily accessible due to the small size of the islands. Cars can also be hired offering a low cost, flexible alternative.

Get ready for the hot sunny summers and mild winters, where temperatures will range from 15-20°C. Warmer than most European countries even in the colder seasons, it is an ideal location for a winter break away from the cold chill of the UK. For uninterrupted sunshine the summer months are the best time to visit, however, Malta is also an excellent winter destination for a walking or activity holiday, although November and December tend to be the months with the most rain. The best time to visit is May, September, and October, when temperatures are warm and the tourist areas are not too crowded.

The Arabs ruled Malta for over 2 centuries from 879 to 1091 AD. The Arab influence may not be immediately obvious upon your arrival in Malta, however there are little snippets of the past still hidden with the streets. The fortified city in the Northern Region is still named ‘Medina’, deriving from the Arabic word for ‘city’, and along with the city ‘Rabat’ in the northern region, these are prime examples of the country’s Arabic cultural heritage. The Arabic language is still deeply rooted in Maltese society, with Arabic surnames being widespread and the Maltese language containing many Arabic-derived words.

The amazing cuisine and architecture shows hints of Islamic and Arab influence, which can be seen on Maltese balcony architecture, which have screened windows or colourful enclosed balconies where families can look out without being seen from the outside. Whilst there are other mosques in the country, the only officially recognised mosque in Malta is the Al Batool Mosque in Paola. It offers beautiful architecture and a great chance to meet local and foreign Muslims. Whilst segregated beaches are not something that you will find in Malta, it is still halal-friendly for women as swimming in a Burkini and wearing modest clothes is welcomed.

Megalithic Temples of Malta
The prehistoric Megalithic Temples of Malta are predicted to have been built between 3,600 BC and 2,500 BC - some of the oldest structures in the world. Historians believe that the temples are some of the most iconic structures of the prehistoric ages and are a fascinating site to witness structures that were built before the age of modern technology.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
Explore the prehistoric site of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola, an underground burial site that was discovered in 1902 and dates back to around 4,000 BC - older than the pyramids of Giza!

Ramla Beach
The Ramla Beach on Gozo island is not only a serene beach to relax and soak in the sun, but a scenic tourist hotspot! There is a rumour that the Romans had built a luxurious villa on the beach with hot baths included. Today, the ruins are left on the beach and there is even a cave for your little ones to explore in!

Upper Barrakka Gardens
The highest point of Malta lies within the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta. These green public gardens are home to busts, statues and plaques denoting various personalities and other significant events in Maltese history, and offer a beautiful panoramic view of the city. Explore the gardens and become close to nature, and appreciate the sun shining on the Grand Harbour of Malta.

Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto in Qrendi is a collection of around 6 huge caves surrounded by sparkling blue waters and atmospheric views attracting tourists every year. The caves include a Honeymoon Cave, a Cat’s Cave, and a Reflection Cave.

Malta National Aquarium
Enjoy family fun and excite your little ones by visiting the Malta National Aquarium on St. Paul’s Bay, a gigantic aquarium with around 49 tanks and 250 species of fish! Explore the saltwater and freshwater fish, jellyfish, reptiles, amphibians and even insects. This aquarium also replicates the natural environments of the species, providing a safe space for all animals.

Halal food is easy to find in Malta, with a great selection of cuisine to choose from. Take your pick from Turkish, Lebanese, Afghan, Kashmiri and traditional rustic Maltese food. Visit a pastizzeria (pastizzi shop) to snack on the most popular and iconic street food in Malta, a Pastizzi - a delicious ricotta and cheese or mushy peas filled pastry available to buy on nearly every street corner. Here are some traditional Maltese dishes:

• Ftira: ring shaped bread with tomato paste and fresh vegetables with basil.
• Stuffat tal-Fenek: The national dish of Malta is a slow-cooked rabbit stew accompanied by potatoes and vegetables.
• Stuffat tal-Qarnita: octopus stew, one of Malta’s most loved dishes. Slow-cooked in a broth of onions, garlic cloves, kunserva – a sweet tomato paste, olive oil, diced tomatoes, parsley, and lemon & orange rind, traditionally served with some hearty Maltese bread.
• Aljotta: a traditional Maltese fish soup mostly made with rockfish and cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, served with rice.
• Ftira Għawdxija : Gozitan pizza from the island of Gozo, traditionally made with ricotta, goat cheese and potato toppings.

For those of you with a sweet tooth, look out for the Qagħaq ta’ L-Għasel: the pastry dating back to the 15th century is filled with a mixture of marmalade, oranges, sugar, lemon, mixed spices, cinnamon, vanilla and syrup.

Malta will deliver and exceed your expectations of a halal holiday, with amazing and tantalising halal food and scrumptious desserts.

Choose from a range of halal-friendly hotels, villas and a range of other getaways in Malta for your halal holiday break. Tailor your halal holiday to your preferences including stays offering halal food on site or nearby. Enjoy women’s privacy with secluded pools in your Maltese villa, making it easier than ever before to maintain modesty on your halal-friendly vacation. Relax to the fullest with the option of stays with spa and wellness facilities available in Malta. At Halalbooking, we have a price match offer. If you have found cheaper prices, let us know for your ultimate halal holiday in Malta. Feel free with the options of ‘ Book Now, Pay Later’ or ‘Free Cancellation’ and use our halal-friendly filters to find the property that best suits your needs.