With Islam being the second largest religion in Thailand, it’s no wonder the country is packed full of Muslim-friendly hotels and activities for visitors from the Middle East. In fact, just recently Thailand was voted as one of the top 10 countries for Muslim millenials due to its authenticity and how affordable and accessible it is.
Here’s a round-up of Tourism Authority Thailand Middle East’s favourite Muslim-friendly hotels in Bangkok and Phuket.
For further recommendations, Muslim visitors to Thailand can download this handy Thailand Muslim Friendly app for recommendations restaurants, hotels and masjids: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wisdomlanna.thailandhalalexperience&hl=en
HOTELS
Bangkok
- Nouvo City Hotel, Bangkok
This Halal-certified modern, stylish hotel located in the hub of Bangkok’s historic neighbourhood is designed especially for Muslims. The Sara Restaurant with a five-star Halal rating certified by the Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT) not only serves mouth watering halal dishes but has also gained recognition for its Thai, Indian and European cuisines. The Canal Restaurant is well-known for its appetizing Halal food which never fails to impress.
The hotel includes praying facilities for both men and women and the prayer direction is accurately marked in the rooms with a prayer timetable available at the front desk. You can even request female prayer dress, the location of nearby mosques or prayer mats. All bathrooms in the hotel are also equipped with hand bidets.
During Ramadan, the hotel can arrange Iftar and Sahoor for guests. For Taraweeh prayers and Eid prayers, the hotel can take you to a nearby mosque upon request. In order to remain respectful, alcohol, nightclubs, gambling and adult channels are not available in the hotel.
- Al Meroz Hotel, Bangkok
Al Meroz Hotel Bangkok is a leading Halal hotel and is specially designed and set up to integrate the needs of their Muslim customers. Staff are well-trained to make ensure Muslim guests are made to feel as comfortable as possible. Both Diwan Restaurant and Barakat Mediterranean Cuisine in the hotel serve Halal-certified food and do not serve alcohol. Being respectful of the culture of Muslims, the pool and gym provide exclusive access for female guests in the morning and male guests after midday.
For the convenience of prayers, prayer mats are available in rooms and prayer rooms with separate sections for males and females in the hotel. If Muslim guests wish to pray somewhere else, The Foundation of Islamic is just across the road and there are several mosques nearby. Getting around the city is made easy with a shuttle bus bringing you to the station, Central Plaza Rama 9 MRT station and Emquartier shopping mall in Phrom Phong. You will also reach Ramkhamhaeng Airport Rail Link Station within 10-minutes by foot from where you will get to central Bangkok within minutes.
- Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok
If Asian taste and luxury are what are you looking for, look no further than Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok. Well-placed by the Chao Phraya River, the view from the hotel is stunning. Muslims especially love this place as it provides halal food and is near to the Haroon Masjid mosque open for prayers from all over the world including formal jum’a. The on-site NEXT2 Cafe serves pork-free and Arabic cuisine and its chicken, beef, lamb and seafood dishes are prepared using halal-certified ingredients.
If you are on a quest for more delicious food and shopping experiences, take the free shuttle boat to Asiatique by the river. You can also reach attractions such as the Grand Palace by ferry. To explore more sights, Saphan Taksin BTS Skytrain Station is directly next to the hotel.
- Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Bangkok
Baiyoke Sky Hotel is a great option for Muslims with several nearby restaurants serving Hala dishes. From the stalls in Platinum Fashion Mall food court, to the nearby Muslim restaurants namely Tom Yam Paa Nga, Maedah Restaurant and Al-Sana Restaurant just beside the hotel. Darul Aman Mosque is also just a 20-minute walk away. For dine-in, the hotel serves Thai, Malay and Indian food.
Phuket
- Bangtao Beach Chalet Resort, Phuket
Bangtao Beach Chalet Resort is a brilliant 3-star beach resort surrounded by lush tropical gardens in the middle of Phuket. The charming hotel is intimate and attentive to the Muslim community. It has been awarded as one of the best Muslim-friendly hotels by CrescentRating, making this place a great destination for Muslim visitors. A space for praying, prayer mats, prayer timetables, and prayer dress for females are provided. The halal-certified foods are all prepared by Muslim chefs.
- The Bell Pool Villa resort, Phuket
The Bell Pool Villa Resort Phuket is such an exclusive escape for Muslim travelers – it doesn’t just come with halal cuisine served by Zhong Lounge Restaurant, the tropical surroundings, spa treatments, and shuttle service to Kamala beach can’t be overlooked. The rooms are laden with Thai touches.
- Aleenta Resort and Spa, Phuket-Phangnga
Seeking a deluxe accommodation with halal options? Look no further than Aleenta Resort and Spa. A mere 20-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, the world-class accommodation features a personal infinity-edge pool for cooling down, pampering spa treatments and a restaurant serving halal and vegetarian foods from Thai to fusion. A yoga practice area is also available to use. Meanwhile, the fashionable rooms feature stunning views overlooking the pool and ocean.
- Amatara Wellness Resort
Amatara Wellness Resort will perfect your halal-style staying experience whilst in Phuket. The on-site restaurant serves a delicious selection of halal foods which have influences from Asia and Europe. The luxurious rooms are fully furnished with modern features and there’s even a babysitting service and a Kid’s Club for families. Other facilities include a business center, wellness center, and tennis courts.
