As humans, we act as sensory receivers, capable of processing countless messages daily. Among our senses, sight and hearing play the most significant roles in shaping our perceptions of ourselves and our surroundings. It’s no surprise that most investments in promoting ideas and behaviors are directed toward these two senses.
As the saying goes, “Out of sight, out of mind.” In today’s world of relentless visual saturation, this connection has been further solidified by smart devices, placing a constant stream of visual and auditory content right at our fingertips.
But does this visual flood comprising global and local advertisements mean we should stay on the sidelines, dismissing it as merely commercial, superficial, or profit-driven?
This article is particularly directed at those who carry messages of positive social change but hesitate to enter this crowded marketplace, underestimating their potential impact amidst the overwhelming noise.
Understanding Consumer Behavior in a Saturated Market
From a purely logical and behavioral standpoint, human desires—whether material or psychological—are continuously stimulated by an ever-expanding range of choices. The abundance of options, combined with speed and convenience, creates a sense of control, leading to inevitable addiction. Phenomena like FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), dopamine manipulation, and Skinner’s behaviorist theories are deeply embedded in our daily lives.
The broader the range of choices, the greater the likelihood that some consumers will seek balance, discipline, and purpose beyond excessive consumption. This desire for a value-driven lifestyle creates an untapped market for products that align with ethical, spiritual, and cultural values.
Yet, the size of this consumer segment remains difficult to quantify through conventional methods. The most effective way to measure this demand is by increasing digital experiences that promote human-centric values and analyzing interactions, sales, and audience engagement.
The Distinctive Nature of Islamic Social Products
Islamic-oriented products hold a unique advantage over conventional alternatives due to:
- Emotional and value-driven purchasing behavior: Consumers resonate with products that hold symbolic and spiritual significance.
- A stable and recurring market demand: Annual religious events such as Ramadan, Hajj, and Eid create consistent purchasing cycles.
- Content sensitivity and precision: Ensuring religious and cultural alignment is critical to maintaining credibility and avoiding misinterpretations.
- Reliance on word-of-mouth and trusted endorsements: Unlike traditional advertising, these products often gain traction through religious figures and reputable institutions.
- Strong social support: Products that carry a mission-driven narrative tend to receive community backing.
However, the lack of competition and innovation in this sector presents an incredible yet time-sensitive opportunity.
Expanding and Innovating in the Islamic Product Market
Islamic-compliant products span various industries, yet there is ample room for growth and creative differentiation. Some key areas include:
- Islamic sportswear: Global brands like Nike have entered this space with sports hijabs.
- Islamic smartwatches: Offering prayer reminders, Qibla direction, and digital Quran features.
- Burkini swimwear: Catering to modest swimwear needs, supported by exclusive women’s beaches in places like Turkey.
- Halal beauty products: A rising trend in ethical cosmetics.
- Islamic finance services: Shariah-compliant banking and investment solutions.
- Halal tourism: Hotels and travel experiences aligned with Islamic principles.
- Halal food: A massive market surpassing all the above categories in scale.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
The global halal market is projected to reach $3.30 trillion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.42%, potentially hitting $9.45 trillion by 2034. (1)
Asia-Pacific dominates the halal food sector, estimated at $1.49 trillion in 2025. This growth is fueled by an increasing Muslim population, the integration of halal certifications, and a growing reputation for quality that attracts both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers.
Beyond the Product: The Role of Design and Branding
A product targeting Muslim consumers—or those interested in ethical consumption must go beyond functionality and compliance. Given the current low competition in this market, profit margins may be promising, but branding, design, and marketing must not be overlooked.
The true sustainability of Islamic products lies in their value-driven essence, linking them to responsible consumption, community solidarity, and environmental consciousness. Therefore, strategic product design plays a crucial role in creating a strong market presence.
Key elements include:
- Naming strategy
- Visual identity (logo and branding)
- Packaging design
- Retail and digital placement
- Marketing visuals and storytelling
A Practical Experiment in Islamic Product Design
To explore the potential of Islamic-themed product innovation, I developed a conceptual design project inspired by the intricate patterns found on the cover of the Holy Quran. By applying this design to various products, such as beverages, clothing, and accessories, the goal was to test market reception.
Surprisingly, the response was overwhelmingly positive many people inquired where they could purchase the products, even though they were merely conceptual ideas!
This experience reinforced the power of identity-driven products when a product resonates with people’s values and aspirations, it fosters a deeper connection and consumer loyalty.
Leveraging Digital Integration and Sustainability
Imagine if Islamic-themed products incorporated interactive experiences, for example, a beverage can with a QR code leading to a video on upcycling ideas, demonstrating how to reuse the can for storage, decor, lighting, or educational tools.
This approach could be expanded across various industries, reinforcing environmental consciousness and sustainable consumer behavior.
A Historic Opportunity Amid Market Shifts
The ongoing boycott movement against brands supporting the Israeli occupation in Gaza, Palestine, presents a significant market shift. As consumers seek ethical alternatives, the void left by these boycotts opens doors for local and independent brands not as a fleeting trend but as a long-term transformation in purchasing habits.
We are witnessing a complex convergence of geopolitical changes and rising consumer consciousness. Both Muslim and non-Muslim communities are increasingly aligning with values of ethical production, sustainability, and social responsibility.
The Way Forward: Designing for Culture, Behavior, and Strategy
To create a lasting impact, Islamic product design must integrate culture, behavior, and strategic planning into its core. This means:
- Understanding the evolving consumer mindset
- Innovating with authenticity and cultural relevance
- Incorporating sustainability into product lifecycles
- Enhancing branding and digital storytelling
The future of Islamic product design lies not just in filling market gaps but in shaping a movement that prioritizes value-driven consumption, community empowerment, and long-term sustainability.
Now is the time to seize this opportunity not just for profit, but for a meaningful and impactful transformation in how products are designed, consumed, and valued.
