Islamic Business Ethics in Tourism Economy: Implementation of Islamic Economic Principles among Street Vendors in Gili Air, North Lombok

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of Islamic economic principles and business ethics among street vendors operating within the tourism economy of Gili Air, North Lombok, Indonesia. The research is motivated by the growing significance of Islamic ethical frameworks in promoting fairness, honesty, and social justice in business practices, especially within informal microeconomic sectors linked to tourism. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation involving Muslim street vendors engaged in daily trading activities around the Gili Air tourism area. The findings reveal that most vendors possess a basic understanding of Islamic business ethics such as honesty (ṣidq), trustworthiness (amānah), justice (ʿadl), and mutual benefit (taʿāwun). However, the practical application of these principles varies, depending on individual awareness, economic pressure, and market competition. The study also identifies that social interaction and community solidarity play important roles in shaping ethical conduct. In general, Islamic values are not only reflected in transactional behavior but also in the vendors’ spiritual attitudes, which influence how they perceive work as a form of worship (ʿibādah). The research concludes that strengthening Islamic business ethics in the local tourism economy requires continuous education, moral guidance, and institutional support to ensure the sustainability of ethical practices in micro-trading activities. This study contributes to the discourse on Islamic economics by linking ethical behavior to the dynamics of informal trade in tourism-based local economies.