Is It Permissible to Take Vacation in Western Countries?

18 June, 2019

Q I have a question regarding going for vacation in Western countries. One may think of traveling to a Western country for vacation or even think of taking a vacation in his own country, if it happens that he resides in a western country. As you know, summer is here and so is the mood of vacationing. As Muslims, we face the challenge of keeping ourselves upright in the midst of so much shamelessness and nudity. How can we meet the need of taking the family out for a few days while adhering to the Islamic teachings?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

In this fatwa:

1- There is no prohibition to take vacation in Western countries, as there are many Muslim communities in these countries.

2- As for the probability of meeting some unpleasant situations in those countries, one should avoid such situations to the best of his ability.

Responding to the question, Dr. Sano Koutoub Moustapha, Professor of Fiqh and its Principles, International Islamic University, Malaysia, states:

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said, “There are two blessings and most people are deceived by them: leisure and health.” (Al-Bukhari)

This hadith indicates that a Muslim is not supposed to allow himself to be idle; rather he should become engaged in good works and useful activities, especially during summer time.

Islam does recommend Muslims to travel and visit different countries and nations in order for them to appreciate the greatness of Allah’s creation. There are many verses in the Glorious Quran that call upon them to travel around the world.

In this regard, one should travel to any country in the world as far as he or she can adhere to the teachings of Islam. There is no prohibition to take vacation in Western countries, as there are many Muslim communities in these countries. Therefore, it is an opportunity to know them and communicate with them if possible.

As for the probability of meeting some unpleasant situations in those countries, one should avoid such situations to the best of his ability. I shall recommend Muslims in the western countries to visit Muslim countries for better understanding and looking for further cooperation with fellow Muslims.

Having said all this, one should bear in mind that when one is Muslim, Islam is seen through one’s actions and behavior. Therefore, one should be a good ambassador of Islam and Muslims wherever one goes in this world. One should work towards upholding the good image and name of Islam. May Allah guide all of us and protect Islam and Muslims.

Almighty Allah knows best.