The purpose of this study is to explore the requirements needed for a country to establish itself as a global Halal hub. In this regard, this exploratory research paper uses a semi-structured indepth interview to obtain the perceptions of Halal experts about the requirements for establishing a Halal hub. The results of the study indicate that human capital, media, research and development, events, country's capability, public and governmental support, marketing strategy, and infrastructure comprise the vital requirements. Furthermore, from the perceptions of the experts, public and governmental support, marketing strategy, and human capital are the three most important requirements. Since this paper is an exploratory study, it provides some insights of the three experts on the establishing of a Halal hub. In addition, a quantitative study is an appropriate approach to implement the findings of this study empirically and to determine the effective components to establish a Halal hub in those countries that desire it. A practical implication of this study is the opening of a new window for any country that aspires to be a Halal hub. In this matter, this paper presents the key considerations in establishing a Halal hub for Halal certification bodies, companies and marketers involved in the Halal business. Moreover, this research attempts to influence the perceptions and attitudes of people of the country on the desirability of becoming a Halal hub, followed by a discussion on the development of a national brand. When the contribution of its people is high, a country stands the best chance of achieving its goal. Finally, this study is one of the first to seek the perceptions of experts about vital requirements that a country should pay more attention to if it wishes to establish a global Halal hub.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions of Muslim consumers on the Islamic Chamber Research & Information Center (ICRIC) Halal logo. In particular, the paper evaluates the main messages of the logo and describes the organization’s characteristics behind this logo. Design/methodology/approach This exploratory research conducts a semi-structured interview with visual aids method to identify the Malay Muslim’s perceptions toward the ICRIC Halal logo. Findings Results of the study indicate that the word “Halal” in Arabic characters is a very strong visual and emotional element of the logo because it is eye-catching and projects a strong image of credibility and trustworthiness. Using Islamic graphical design in a Halal logo can assist businesses to succeed in the marketplace. Simplicity, appropriate font type and size, suitable colors and total harmony of all elements make a Halal logo attractive and meaningful; the logo signals trust and mirrors the values of the organization. Research limitations/implications This research used a qualitative research approach to analyze the perceptions of 25 Malay Muslim students. Practical implications Practical implications of this study provide a new window for all Halal certification bodies to realize the importance of the different elements of the Halal logo. Social implications This research attempts to introduce a unique Halal logo that is approved by 57 Muslim countries. This unity assists religious consumers with various mathahib to purchase Halal products with confidence. Originality/value This pioneer study explores the Muslim consumers’ perceptions of a specific Halal logo in the marketplace.