Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. While the majority of the population in Vietnam practices Buddhism, there is also a significant Muslim community in the country. Learn more in our halal food guides. Explore halal food in Vietnam for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

Muslim travellers who visit Vietnam can experience a unique blend of Islamic and Vietnamese culture, as well as explore the country’s many attractions, including ancient temples, bustling cities, and picturesque landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a wealth of experiences for Muslim travellers looking to discover a new and exciting destination.

Is Vietnam Muslim-Friendly?

Vietnam is moderately Muslim-friendly with a small but established Muslim community:

  • 80,000 Muslims: Primarily Cham ethnic minority
  • Growing tourism: Awareness of Muslim needs increasing
  • Limited halal: But improving in tourist areas
  • Mosques in major cities: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi
  • Cham heritage: Ancient Islamic presence
  • Safe country: Very low crime

Vietnam requires more planning but offers unique experiences for Muslim travelers.

Does Vietnam Have Halal Food?

Halal food is limited but available in Vietnam:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):

  • District 1: Some halal restaurants near tourist areas
  • Indian restaurants: Generally halal options
  • Cham community: Some Muslim-owned eateries
  • Ben Thanh Market: Seafood options

Hanoi:

  • Old Quarter: Limited halal, mostly Indian
  • Halal restaurants: A few options emerging
  • Al-Noor Mosque area: Some halal nearby

Nha Trang/Da Nang:

  • Cham community presence: Some halal options
  • Tourist areas: Growing awareness

Safe eating strategies:

  • Seafood: Vietnam has excellent fresh seafood
  • Pho (noodle soup): Ask for seafood or vegetable version
  • Vegetarian options: Buddhist vegetarian restaurants are common
  • Fresh spring rolls: Verify ingredients
  • Tropical fruits: Abundant and safe

Avoid: Dishes with pork (very common in Vietnamese cuisine), fish sauce made with shrimp paste.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Vietnam?

Saigon Central Mosque (Masjid Jamiul Muslimin) is the most significant:

  • Built 1935, restored and expanded
  • Located in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
  • Serves Indian and Cham Muslim community
  • Blue and white architecture

Other mosques:

  • Al-Noor Mosque (Hanoi): Small but active
  • Cham mosques: In Ninh Thuận and Bình Thuận provinces
  • An Giang Mosques: Cham community in Mekong Delta

The Cham people maintain over 70 mosques in their traditional areas.

Are There Many Muslims in Vietnam?

Vietnam has approximately 80,000 Muslims (0.1% of population):

  • Cham Muslims: Largest group, indigenous to Vietnam
  • Indian Muslims: Small business community in HCMC
  • Malay Muslims: Some presence
  • Indonesian workers: Growing community

The Cham people are descendants of the ancient Champa Kingdom and practice Islam. They concentrate in Ninh Thuận, Bình Thuận, and An Giang provinces.

Is Vietnam Safe for Muslims?

Vietnam is very safe for Muslim travelers:

Positives:

  • Extremely low crime rates
  • Friendly, hospitable people
  • No religious discrimination
  • Easy visa access for most countries
  • Affordable destination

Considerations:

  • Language barrier (limited English)
  • Pork is ubiquitous in local cuisine
  • Limited halal infrastructure outside major cities
  • Need to plan meals carefully

Vietnam is safe and welcoming but requires food planning.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

  • Saigon Central Mosque: Main mosque
  • Ben Thanh Market: Seafood and fruits
  • War Remnants Museum: Historical insight
  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Day trip option

Hanoi

  • Old Quarter: Vibrant streets
  • Ha Long Bay: UNESCO World Heritage (day trip)
  • Al-Noor Mosque: Small but active
  • Limited halal: Plan ahead

Da Nang/Hoi An

  • Marble Mountains: Beautiful caves and pagodas
  • Hoi An Ancient Town: UNESCO site
  • Beaches: Beautiful coastline
  • Cham Museum: Islamic heritage

Ninh Thuận/Phan Rang

  • Cham Muslim community: Authentic cultural experience
  • Po Klong Garai Temple: Ancient Cham site
  • Traditional villages: Cultural immersion

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. HCMC is easiest: Best halal options
  2. Seafood is your friend: Fresh and halal
  3. Say “không thịt heo”: Means “no pork”
  4. Vegetarian Buddhist restaurants: Safe alternative
  5. Plan meals: Research halal restaurants before trips
  6. Bring snacks: For rural areas
  7. Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  8. Visa: Most nationalities can get e-visa or visa on arrival