SINGAPORE: A Singapore-based company has launched a mobile application that enables Muslim foodies and travelers to share halal restaurant discoveries around the world.
The free “HalalTrip” app, available for Apple iOS and Android devices, enables users to take and upload photos of halal dishes, write comments and share them through social media.
Clicking on a photo gives details about the dish as well as the location of the restaurant. The app, which has English and Arabic interfaces, also uses a traveler’s location to display photos of halal dishes served in nearby restaurants.
The term halal is used for food, products and services that comply with Islamic requirements.
“Halal food is one of the biggest drivers of tourism for the Muslim market,” said Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of HalalTrip, part of a Muslim-oriented business group called CrescentRating.
“When traveling, one of the main concerns of Muslims is halal food. What we did is to bring in a social media element into discovering halal food and making it more fun and more intuitive,” he said.
Fazal predicted the Muslim travel market would be worth $192 billion a year globally by 2020, up from $140 billion in 2013.
Singapore firm launches mobile app for halal foodies
Singapore firm launches mobile app for halal foodies
Where We Are Going Today: La Haut Maison et Ciel
- One of the evening’s highlights was the passion fruit carpaccio salmon
La Haut Maison et Ciel, located in Via Riyadh, is a carefully curated experience.
The interior is warm and refined, defined by rich brown tones, polished marble, and brass accents. During the day, sunlight filters through a wooden sunroof, while evenings bring mood lighting and a softly lit bar that creates a more intimate atmosphere.
The menu is where La Haut makes its strongest impression. Drawing from North African and Mediterranean influences, the dishes blend familiar flavors with thoughtful, restrained twists. Presentation and seasoning feel deliberate without veering into excess.
The tomato goat cheese salad was fresh and well-balanced, with acidity cutting through the creaminess of the cheese. The harissa shrimp salad stood out among the starters, offering a gentle, layered heat that relied more on aromatic spices than intensity.
One of the evening’s highlights was the passion fruit carpaccio salmon. The subtle sweetness and acidity of the passion fruit created a dish that felt clean, elegant, and perfectly balanced. It was as enjoyable to look at as it was to eat.
Among the mains, the slow-cooked, tender asado short ribs were comforting without feeling heavy. The Tunisian lamb offered a warmer, more rustic contrast, with tender meat, fragrant spices, and fluffy couscous creating a deeply satisfying dish.
The Algerian rechta was another standout, particularly for those drawn to comforting homemade pasta, with silky noodles that absorbed the sauce beautifully.
There are, however, minor drawbacks. Portions lean toward the refined side, which may leave one wanting more, especially given the premium pricing. Service was attentive and friendly, but felt slightly stretched during peak hours, with longer pauses between courses.
Desserts are lighter in style, a welcome finish after a flavorful meal, though those seeking indulgent sweets may find the selection limited.
The drinks menu is solid, featuring both well-executed classics and house signatures that complement the food and setting.
Overall, La Haut Maison et Ciel delivers a well-curated dining experience that balances atmosphere, flavor, and creativity.
While pacing and portion size could be refined, it remains a strong addition to Riyadh’s evolving dining scene.
