Islam has a long history in Thailand, dating back to the 13th century, when Muslim traders and settlers established communities in the southern provinces, particularly in Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkhla. Today, Muslims make up about 4-5% of Thailand’s population, or roughly 2.8 to 3 million people. Most Thai Muslims are Sunni, and many, especially in the southern provinces, are of Malay descent. Learn more in our halal food guides. Explore halal food in Thailand for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

Thailand is welcoming to Muslim visitors. In major tourist areas such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, halal food is readily available, and some hotels provide prayer rooms and other Muslim-friendly amenities. While the country is predominantly Buddhist, its reputation for hospitality extends to visitors of all faiths. Muslim travellers can feel safe and comfortable in Thailand, which has a strong tourist safety record and a growing awareness of Muslim-friendly services.

Is Thailand Muslim-Friendly?

Thailand is increasingly Muslim-friendly, especially in tourist areas. Key features include:

  • 5% Muslim population: Approximately 4 million Muslims
  • Southern provinces: Muslim-majority Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Songkhla
  • Halal food growing: Especially in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai
  • Mosques available: In major cities and Muslim areas
  • Thai hospitality: Welcoming to all faiths
  • Government promotion: Thailand actively markets to Muslim tourists

Thailand offers excellent value with improving Muslim-friendly infrastructure.

Does Thailand Have Halal Food?

Halal food availability varies by location:

Bangkok:

  • Sukhumvit Soi 3 (Soi Arab): Middle Eastern restaurants, halal groceries
  • Ramkhamhaeng area: Large Muslim community with halal options
  • Major malls: Food courts often have halal sections
  • Street food: Some vendors are Muslim-owned (ask for “halal”)

Phuket:

  • Growing halal restaurant scene
  • Muslim areas in Rawai and other neighborhoods
  • Some resorts offer halal options

Chiang Mai:

  • Muslim quarter near Chang Puak Gate
  • Growing number of halal restaurants
  • Some tour operators offer Muslim-friendly packages

Southern Thailand:

  • Krabi, Trang, Satun have Muslim majorities
  • All food essentially halal in these areas

Is Thai food halal?: Traditional Thai food often uses fish sauce and shrimp paste (generally halal), but pork is common. Always ask: “Halal mai?” (Is it halal?) or “Mai sai moo” (No pork).

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Bangkok

Thailand’s capital offers the most halal options:

  • Soi Arab (Sukhumvit Soi 3-3/1): Middle Eastern restaurants, halal hotels
  • Haroon Mosque area: Historic Muslim community, traditional Thai-Muslim food
  • Chatuchak Market: Some halal food vendors
  • Major malls: Halal food courts in Terminal 21, MBK, etc.

Krabi

Muslim-majority province with natural beauty:

  • All food halal: Easy dining throughout
  • Beautiful islands: Phi Phi, Railay Beach accessible
  • Ao Nang: Tourist area with Muslim-friendly services

Phuket

Thailand’s largest island with growing halal scene:

  • Halal restaurants: Increasing options in Patong and other areas
  • Muslim villages: Local communities in central Phuket
  • Beaches: World-famous, though modest swimwear may feel out of place

Chiang Mai

Northern culture with Muslim options:

  • Muslim quarter: Traditional community near old city
  • Halal street food: Near the mosque area
  • Temple visits: Cultural experience (respectful non-worship visits are permissible)

What Is the Largest Mosque in Thailand?

Central Mosque of Pattani (Masjid Klang) is among the largest and most significant:

  • Located in Thailand’s Muslim heartland
  • Beautiful traditional architecture
  • Historic importance to Thai Muslims

In Bangkok:

  • Haroon Mosque: Historic mosque in the capital
  • Bang Luang Mosque: One of Bangkok’s oldest
  • Masjid Al-Azim: Large modern mosque

Is Thailand Safe for Muslims?

Thailand is safe for Muslim travelers:

  • No anti-Muslim sentiment toward tourists
  • Thai hospitality extends to all visitors
  • Muslim women wearing hijab face no issues
  • Note: Southern border provinces (Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat) have security concerns unrelated to tourism—most tourists don’t visit these areas

Tourist areas are safe, clean, and welcoming. Standard precautions apply.

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Learn key Thai phrases: “Halal mai?” (Is it halal?), “Mai sai moo” (No pork)
  2. Soi Arab in Bangkok: Your halal food base
  3. Southern Thailand: Krabi, Trang offer easier halal dining
  4. Download apps: HalalTrip, Zabihah for Thailand listings
  5. Street food caution: Many vendors use same oil for pork—ask carefully
  6. Temple etiquette: Remove shoes, dress modestly, don’t touch Buddha images
  7. Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
  8. Prayer rooms: Available at Suvarnabhumi Airport, some malls