Purpose This study aims to examine the key supporting factors for integrating green waqf into halal tourism as a sustainable financing mechanism. It addresses a critical research gap in which green waqf and halal tourism have largely been studied in isolation. This study offers an integrated systems-based framework that links Islamic social finance with sustainable tourism development. Design/methodology/approach This study uses qualitative system dynamics modeling using a group model building (GMB) approach. As the empirical context, this study conducted in Padang which is one of Indonesia’s designated waqf cities. GMB is particularly relevant as it facilitates participatory engagement among diverse stakeholders. Stakeholder insights were synthesized into a causal loop diagram (CLD) to capture the systemic structure supporting green waqf–based halal tourism. Findings The analysis reveals four interrelated dimensions: (1) governance and regulatory support, (2) financial and economic mechanisms, (3) human capital and socio-cultural readiness and (4) infrastructure, technology and tourism implementation. These dimensions together shape the feasibility of green waqf integration within halal tourism ecosystems. Research limitations/implications This study provides a theoretical foundation for future empirical work on the operationalization of green waqf in tourism. This study also provides actionable insights for policymakers in designing collaborative governance models to support halal tourism initiatives funded through green waqf. Originality/value This study makes a novel theoretical contribution by advancing one of the first framework based on system dynamics that conceptually integrates green waqf, environmental sustainability and halal tourism.
Huda et al. (Thu,) studied this question.