Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world. When searching for accommodation here, you’ll likely come across hotels or homestays with ‘Shariyah’ in their name. What does this mean for travelers in practical terms, and should you avoid staying in such places?
What is Sharia Accommodation?
Sharia accommodation (also known as halal accommodation) follows Islamic (Sharia) law. While it may sound strict, there’s no need to worry. If you’re already traveling like a local, you won’t encounter any radical rules or restrictions here. In fact, similar unspoken guidelines apply almost everywhere (except in major tourist areas where rules tend to be more relaxed) on islands like Java, Sumatra, and Lombok.
Rules at Sharia Hotels
Couples of Opposite Sex
If you’re planning to stay as a couple, the hotel may ask for proof of marriage, such as a marriage certificate. Wedding rings, even if real, usually won’t be enough.
This means that Sharia accommodation is not suitable for unmarried couples, as Sharia law prohibits them from sharing a room. In some places, rooms for men and women are even located in separate areas.
No Alcohol
Alcohol in Indonesia is expensive and difficult to find on islands with a Muslim majority. Even though some hostels and hotels might serve it, you won’t find it in Sharia accommodation. And forget about sneaking in that Bintang you managed to find outside – you won’t be able to enjoy it in the hotel lobby either.
Halal Food
You’ll rarely come across non-halal food in Muslim areas. If you’re craving something like pork, your best bet is to head to Chinatown. But 99% of the time, everything you find in restaurants or street food stalls will be halal – and of course, that goes for Sharia hotels too.
Modest Clothing
If you’re traveling in predominantly Muslim areas of Indonesia, you’ve probably already adjusted your wardrobe. T-shirts with sleeves, no low necklines, and at least knee-length bottoms are a good idea for both men and women – and the same goes for these hotels. No one’s going to check what you wear in your room, of course, but a tank top or mini shorts wouldn’t be appropriate in the hotel’s public areas.
We've also covered appropriate clothing in more detail in our article Know the Manners in Indonesia: Do’s and Don’ts Guide for Travelers
Prayer Space
In most rooms, you’ll spot an arrow on the ceiling pointing toward Mecca, the direction Muslims face when praying. Some places even offer a dedicated prayer room.
Can Non-Muslims Stay in Sharia Accommodation?
From my own experience, I’ve stayed in several places with “Sharia” in the name, and no one ever asked about my religion. So yes – Sharia accommodation usually welcomes all tourists, as long as you’re okay with following the rules.
You can often check the specific rules of each place on booking platforms like Booking.com or Traveloka.
Pros and Cons of Sharia Accommodation in Indonesia
Advantages:
- Peaceful and Safe Environment: Sharia hotels often offer a calm, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just looking to relax.
- Respect for Local Customs: While Sharia hotels aren’t much different from other family-run accommodations, especially in less touristy areas, staying here gives you a glimpse into Islamic principles and helps you understand the local culture better.
- Local Culture: Most guests at Sharia hotels are locals, so you’ll probably stand out as a foreigner, making your experience feel even more authentic. This is especially true for smaller, family-run hotels rather than big franchises.
- Lower Prices: Sure, there are five-star Sharia hotels, but more often, you’ll find smaller family-run places with basic but comfortable services. That means prices here are usually lower than at other nearby accommodations.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Freedom: Let’s be real – there are extra rules you’ll need to follow.
- No Nightlife: If you’re hoping for a place with a lively nightlife, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Sharia accommodation is the opposite of that.
As you can see, Sharia hotels aren’t a fit for unmarried couples traveling together, but I personally think they’re fantastic for families with kids.
Recommended Sharia Accommodation
You can find Sharia accommodation all over the islands, especially in areas where locals tend to stay. Here are a couple of places I’ve personally stayed at and highly recommend:
44 Guest House Syariah, Purwokerto, Central Java
This is a new, cozy spot where you’ll feel right at home. The owners are super friendly and love kids. If you’re traveling as a family and heading to Purwokerto, I can’t recommend it enough.
Hotel Senen Indah Syariah, Jakarta
Perfectly located right next to Pasar Senen train station, this place also has an open garden area, which is a rare gem in central Jakarta. The prices are some of the lowest in the area, and for an extra 25,000 IDR per person per night, they’ll even prepare breakfast for you.
Planning to travel by train? Check out our general guide on How to Travel by Train in Indonesia or dive into a detailed comparison of Jakarta’s Train Stations: Gambir vs Pasar Senen
Final Recommendation
If you’re traveling on Indonesian islands with a Muslim majority, you’ve likely already adapted a bit. Alcohol is pricey and hard to come by, people dress modestly, and public displays of affection aren’t really a thing. Sharia accommodation follows those same principles – so no big surprises there. Just make sure to read the accommodation’s rules and terms carefully before booking to avoid any unexpected surprises.
