BELGIUM

Halal-friendly holidays

Due to the influx of Muslims moving to Belgium in recent years, there are numerous mosques, halal restaurants and cafes, as well as some hotels that only serve halal food and are alcohol-free. These can be found primarily in large cities such as Brussels and Antwerp.

There are many halal restaurants in Belgium, especially in the big cities. There are many Moroccan, Lebanese, Turkish and Indian restaurants that serve halal dishes. Belgium is also known for its delicious French fries served with mayonnaise. Belgian waffles and Belgian chocolate are recognised worldwide as the best in the world.

There are a few hotels that serve halal food only and are also alcohol-free. Also, there are some hotels that provide halal food upon request.

Grand-Place - Located in the heart of Brussels, this busy square is often described as the most beautiful square in the world. From the top of the mediaeval Town Hall, you can get great views of the flower carpet below, which can be seen in the summer months.

Bruges Canals - This is one of the most popular sights in the city as its history began on the banks of the River Reie. Take a sightseeing tour from one of its five docks dotted all across Bruges.

Semois Valley - For nature lovers, this is a must-see. Located in southern Belgium, Semois Valley offers beautiful countryside and wildflowers that bloom in the spring.

Antwerp Museum of Modern Art (M HKA) - Located in a beautiful historic building that was once a convent, it houses a large collection of modern and contemporary art that focuses on Belgian art from the last two centuries.

Frites Museum - Fries are so popular in Belgium that there is a museum dedicated to them in Bruges. Find out more about making Belgian-style French fries here and even get to know one or two recipes.

With a growing population of Muslims in the country, there are mosques in every major Belgian city.

Grand Mosque of Brussels - The Grand Mosque of Brussels is also home to the Islamic Centre of Belgium. It houses a library, offers Arabic classes and is open for daily prayers and Jumu’ah Khutbahs.

Pakistan Islamic Centre - Located in Brussels, it is where the Pakistani community congregates for prayers, classes and lectures. Please note that Urdu is predominantly spoken at the Centre.

Noor al-Haram Mosque - This mosque is in Antwerp, Belgium’s second city. As well as being open for daily prayers, there are also Quran and Arabic lessons.

Omar Ibn Khattab Mosque - This recently renovated mosque in Brussels is a large spacious place of worship, offering Arabic lessons and open for daily prayers and Jumu’ah Khutbahs.

Al-Fath Mosque - Located in Leuven, in the Flemish region of Belgium, Al-Fath Mosque is open for daily prayers and Jumu’ah Khutbahs.