“It is He who made the earth tame for you – so walk among its slopes and eat of His provision – and to Him is the resurrection.” – (Surah Al-Mulk, 67:15)
Travelling can expand our mind, nurture the soul, and reconnect us with Allah’s creations. However, there are a few valid questions to be asked like “Is Thailand Muslim-friendly?”, “Is it easy to locate halal-certified food?”, or “Will there be private spaces for Muslim women?”. This can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting a non-Muslim majority country. But don’t let that stop you from seeing the world! Here’s a simple travel checklist for Muslims to verify if their tour adheres to Islamic principles, so you can enjoy a trip that’s easy, exciting and inspiring.
Halal Food in Thailand: “No Pork, No Lard”?
Halal food in Phuket. Credit: Andamanda Phuket
While some tours may bring Muslim tourists to restaurants or cafes that are “Muslim-friendly” or the dreaded “No Pork, No Lard”, that still doesn’t verify whether the food is truly halal. To truly dispel any feelings of hesitation or doubt you should:
✅Request a restaurant list from your tour agent
If your package includes meals, ask your tour provider for a full list of restaurants you will be visiting. From there, gain peace of mind as you are able to self-verify whether these restaurants are halal.
✅Look for relevant certifications
Don’t reply on vague “Muslim-friendly” labels. Ensure that the restaurants that you are visiting have been certified by the Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT), Thailand’s equivalent of JAKIM.
✅Dine at Muslim-owned restaurants
This is a safe bet as Muslim-owned restaurants are more likely to follow and maintain proper halal standards and avoid cross-contamination with non-halal ingredients and foods.
✅ Download Islamic travel applications
Leverage Islamic travel applications such as HalalTrip or Muslim Pro, or navigate to CICOT’s own website to find nearby halal restaurants, verify if a product is halal, and to find prayer spaces – all from the convenience of your phone.
Browse some of our Thailand Muslim tours! For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us:
Prayer-Friendly Scheduling: Your Inner Spirit, Respected
Some traveler going masjid to pray. Credit: Wikipedia
Your relations to Allah shouldn’t be compromised just because you’re on the move. Before booking a package, always verify that prayer times are taken into considerations and suitable prayer locations are offered.
✅Plan light activities around prayer times
Plan light and easy activities like sightseeing or meal times before prayer times so that you are able to fulfill your prayer obligations without rushing.
✅Include prayer stops
Ensure that appropriate prayer stops are included – stops at mosques or places that have dedicated prayers rooms and not just a random corner or space.
✅Stay at hotels with prayer conveniences
Double check that the accommodation offered have Qiblah signs and easy access to an in-house surau or nearby mosques. If they’re not offered, you can keep a pocket prayer mat and a travel-friendly Qiblah compass handy so you can always fulfill your religious obligations regardless where you are.
Visiting Islamic Sites: A Meaningful Experience
Ton Son Mosque. Credit: Majalah Masjid Kita
Thailand is home to a vibrant Muslim community, with a rich Islamic heritage proudly upheld by Muslims from all across the country. Visiting these communities allows Muslim tourists to experience Thai hospitality and connect with the shared values and history of the Muslim ummah.
✅Learn about Thailand’s rich Islamic heritage
Plan stops to places like the Haroon Mosque in Bangkok or the Central Mosque in Pattani to learn about Thailand’s Islamic history and heritage. Many of these sites have Islamic libraries and exhibits that showcase contributions of local Muslim communities throughout time. Tourists can also head to libraries specialising in Islamic resources and activities like The Foundation of Islamic Centre of Thailand Library located in Narathiwat.
✅Connect with the local Muslim community
Take time to speak to the local Muslim community and imams to better understand what is daily Islamic life like in Thailand. They are often happy to share insights about their local customs, prayer routines, activities, and the local mosque’s community service.
✅Participate in Islamic activities
Many mosques in Thailand welcome foreign Muslim visitors for Friday prayers, Quran classes, or community events. This offers a unique chance to observe and experience ummah in a different cultural setting. If you’d like, bring along small gifts like halal snacks, prayer beads or souvenirs from Malaysia to offer fellow Muslims as a gesture of appreciation and respect.
Browse some of our Thailand Muslim tours! For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us:
Modesty & Mindfulness: Enjoy Without Compromise
Traditional Thailand outfit. Credit: Youtube
Travelling as Muslim means being mindful of whether the tour activities align with your faith. Some popular tour attractions may not align with Islamic values, especially when it comes to modesty, privacy, and behaviour. It’s important for Muslim tourist to choose, customise, or join a tour that respects those values:
✅Private areas for Muslim women
Many resorts now cater to Muslim women with dedicated private pool villas or female-only swimming times. Pack long-sleeved swimming tops or a burkini so you too can enjoy the pool or the beach without compromising your aurah.
✅Mindfully choose spa and wellness options
Thailand is famous for its wellness retreats, but not all spas offer privacy. Opt for women-only or private massage sessions so you can truly unwind without doubt.
✅Dress code awareness
Whether you’re visiting a temple or walking through local markets, dressing modestly is respectful and may earn admiration. Loose, long-sleeved clothing and a headscarf (where needed) help you stay comfortable while respecting your surroundings and the local community.
✅Avoid haram nightlife events
While Thailand is known for its vibrant party scenes, there are many wholesome, halal-friendly alternatives. Enjoy night markets, river cruises, traditional dance shows, or late-night halal cafés for a more meaningful evening experience.
Ramadan Ready: Travelling During the Holy Month
Dates. Credit: NST
While some prefer to avoid travelling during Ramadan, for some, it’s a unique chance to experience the spirit of Ramadan of a Muslim community in another country. If your itinerary supports your spiritual and physical needs, it can be a deeply rewarding experience. Here are some ways to ensure a meaningful journey:
✅Check suhoor and iftar arrangements
Look for hotels that offer suhoor breakfast options or buffet iftars, and make sure you’re close to halal restaurants that stay open at the right times. If you’re lucky, see if you can stay at Muslim-friendly accommodations as they already offer suhoor or can prepare suhoor on request.
✅Schedule free & easy daytime activities
Conserve your energy during the day with free & easy activities and flexible plans (unless you’re able to handle heavier activities). Save the more strenuous activities like sightseeing for the cooler hours of the evening after breaking fast.
✅Find local tarawih prayers
Many local mosques welcome Muslim tourist for tarawih prayers. It’s a great way to stay connected spiritually while also immersing yourself in the local community and ummah.
✅Share iftar with the local Muslim community
See if you’re able to join community iftars, often hosted at mosques or local Muslim groups. It’s a great way for tourists and the local Muslim community to bond over food, faith and shared experiences.
Experience Thailand the Halal Way
Muslims in Thailand. Credit: Youtube
Travelling as a Muslim doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Use this checklist as a guide when planning or vetting tours to ensure your religious needs are taken into consideration, halal-friendly details are emphasised and your modesty is respected.
Thailand can be a truly magnificent destination for you and your loved ones. At Holidaygogogo, we go the extra mile to help you customise your travel plans. Each part of the itinerary, accommodation, meals, and activities, can be customised to fit every travel need and preference you have – so you can travel, explore, and relax without any concerns.
