Peran UMKM Kuliner Halal Terhadap Perkembangan Wisata Religi Sunan Giri Gresik

Religious tourism serves not only as a means of religious activity but also creates economic opportunities for communities surrounding tourist destinations. One of the economic activities found in the Sunan Giri Religious Tourism area in Gresik is the development of culinary micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This study aims to analyze the role of halal culinary MSMEs in the development of Sunan Giri Religious Tourism and identify the supporting and inhibiting factors. This research employs a qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The data are analyzed through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The discussion indicates that culinary MSMEs contribute to meeting visitors’ needs by providing food, local culinary specialties, and souvenirs, while also creating income-generating opportunities for the surrounding community. These businesses also have the potential to strengthen local culinary identity and enrich visitors’ tourism experiences. However, their development faces several challenges, including halal assurance, halal certification, accessibility, parking arrangements, visitor circulation, and the availability of institutional support and assistance for MSME operators. Therefore, collaboration among MSME operators, the government, site managers, and local communities is needed to strengthen the role of halal culinary MSMEs in supporting the sustainable development of Sunan Giri Religious Tourism.