How Laos is Becoming More Muslim-Friendly

Laos has changed – and it has only been 6 years since I last visited. It's been a rapid one, and it's excellent for Muslims. When I asked Bodral Jammal, whom I met in the capital, Vientiane, what it was about Laos that made him want to visit it at this late stage of his life, he replied, "Read into the fact that it's smoother to travel around the country, with transportation, and more of a Muslim community around from what some of my friends told me when they visited. Plus, halal options for food are greater." Jammal is correct on all fronts. Compared to my visit in 2019, there’s now a stronger sense of inclusion, with more halal food options, improved infrastructure, and a growing recognition of religious diversity.

The shift was immediately noticeable. The introduction of the Laos-China Railway has transformed travel within the country and improved logistics for businesses and the movement of goods, indirectly benefiting halal product availability. The impact has been enormous for Muslim visitors and locals.

New railway completed and started in 2021 – made travelling between cities a lot more efficient (Photo Credit: Shebs Alom)

A New Era for Muslims in Laos

Beautiful temples to visit in the capital Vientiane (Photo Credit: Shebs Alom)

Laos has a lengthy history of Buddhist traditions and breathtaking scenery. Finding halal food, prayer spaces, and community connections was a challenge. Something that wasn't possible during my last visit. That’s no longer the case. A combination of economic growth, with the help of the Chinese government, the improved transport links, and a more outward-looking approach has made the country far more accessible and welcoming. Even Vang Vieng, a well-known backpacker hotspot, had a more family-friendly vibe. This is mirrored in the increase of family-friendly resorts and activities, as opposed to the previous predominantly hostel-focused environment. For example, the resort I stayed in, San San Resort, had an influx of families, an evident change from my previous visit.

Although the Muslim minority in Laos is small, it is firmly integrated into the country's cultural fabric. The majority are Sunni, with Vientiane home to two mosques that serve as focal points for worship and social gatherings. Beyond the capital, Muslim communities can also be found in Savannakhet, Oudomxay—where a mosque was built in 2016—although I haven't travelled there, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang are places I noticed this time with this presence.

This diverse community includes Lao, Chin Haw, Chams, Tamils, and Pashtuns, with interracial marriages becoming increasingly common. And there has been an inpouring of migration. I met several people from the three cities who run Indian restaurants––a familiar journey many have had when it comes to being the first generation from Asia.

Vientiane: A Growing Hub for Muslim Travellers

Patuxay – Victory Monument (Photo Credit: Shebs Alom)

Koyes Islam, a Bangladeshi, moved to Vientiane over 4 months ago, seeking new opportunities. “I spoke to several who told me the community is growing,” he explained. “We have mosques, and we can shop for halal food at markets. I can only see it growing.”

One local told me that the suppliers they have in Laos ship meat to countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, where the population is predominantly Muslim. So, restaurants will likely be halal but not certified. It's a similar scenario to the one I'm aware of in the U.K. Whilst there isn't a widely recognised or regulated halal certification process in Laos, with local third-party companies being used, it means that confirming halal practices often rely on personal inquiry and trust.

Whilst golden temples like Wat Sisaket and Pha That Luang dominate the skyline of Vientiane, their intricate carvings and peaceful courtyards provide moments of quiet reflection, much like stepping into a mosque between the call to prayer. The Mekong, a lifeblood of the region, offers a different view of the capital—gliding along its waters at dusk, the city feels almost meditative.

Even though dedicated prayer spaces outside of mosques are still limited, some restaurants and, of course, your hotel's facilities allow guests to use quiet areas for prayer. It's also worth noting that Laos's respectful and tolerant atmosphere makes it generally comfortable to find a quiet corner for worship, even if it's not a designated space.

Vang Vieng & Luang Prabang – A Surprising Shift in Attitudes

Lively night market in Luang Prabang (Photo Credit: Shebs Alom)

Outside the capital, the change is just as evident. I mentioned Vang Vieng, long associated with adventure tourism and backpackers, has adapted to become more inclusive. Apart from the increase in the number of family holidaymakers, the majority coming from China, the stunning Karst Mountains and Nam Song River continue to draw visitors, but now, there’s a growing awareness of diverse traveller needs.

"Vang Vieng has been a surprise," said Tamim Ali, a British Muslim traveller, who informed on his positive experiences in the city. "I expected to struggle with food options, but it’s been easier than I thought. Locals are accommodating, and I’ve found places to relax. You can also do many sporting activities, from kayaking to canoeing to hiking and sunset hot air ballooning."

Even in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO-listed city where Buddhism is deeply woven into daily life, I noticed a shift. The city remains profoundly traditional, but there’s been a subtle yet meaningful change. Muslim travellers can still have a wonderful experience exploring the temples, waterfalls, and the Mekong River whilst also enjoying the peaceful ambience of this captivating city. Halal food options are beginning to emerge, and whilst prayer spaces are still limited, awareness is growing.

There are plenty of halal food options compared to Shebs' visit in 2019 (Photo Credit: Shebs Alom)

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Popular area in Vang Vieng (Photo Credit: Shebs Alom)

Lao tourism authorities have acknowledged the potential of attracting Muslim travellers. An official representative suggested, "By providing prayer rooms in public places and promoting halal restaurants, the country could become more welcoming to Muslim visitors. We are aware of our neighbours from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. Although we have concentrated on Chinese tourists, Laos has always been welcoming, but we now see more people seeking diverse options. It’s a learning process, but we are embracing it."

Of course, challenges remain. The Muslim population in Laos is small, meaning that whilst progress is evident, services can still be limited outside major cities. Halal certification isn’t always regulated, and in some areas, finding a place to pray requires creativity. I also haven't seen many African Muslims, which is something that needs to be looked into and why they haven’t travelled across. Yet, there are not many black tourists in general, regardless of Islamic faith. However, what stands out in 2025 is the effort being made.

One of the biggest drivers of change has been education and awareness. With more tourists from Muslim-majority countries arriving, the demand is clear. Businesses will need to respond, and locals will have to increase awareness.

A Bright Future for Muslim Travellers in Laos

Photo credit: Shebs Alom

Despite the challenges, the trajectory is clear. Laos is becoming an increasingly viable and rewarding destination for Muslim travellers. The China-Laos Railway has been a game-changer for tourism, cultural exchange, and economic opportunity.

Compared to 2019, Laos in 2025 has turned out to be a very different experience for me. As the country continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see where it is in the next 6 years for Muslim holidaymakers.