Cambodia working to draw in Muslim tourists

Following a 23 percent rise in foreign tourist numbers in 2024, Cambodia is working to welcome a greater number of Muslim tourists this year.

While China remains Cambodia’s primary source market, tourism authorities are working to entice travellers from Arab states to balance the numbers.

Of the 6.7 million foreign nationals who came to the country in 2024, around 7.3 percent were from the Middle East, up 20 percent from 2023.

Muslims from Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim nation, made up for more than 123,000 visitors in the past year.

As of Friday, 24th January, Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism has designated working teams to prepare strategies on how to make the country more attractive to Muslim tourists.

Making necessary adjustments

While Cambodia is predominantly Buddhist, there are communities with sizable Muslim populations.

Muslim communities in Phnom Penh and Kampot are predominantly Cham Muslims with their own unique culture which they share with tourists looking into immersive, halal-friendly experiences.

At the same time, major hotels in the country’s largest cities now have kitchens specifically for the preparation of halal food; these also offer prayer spaces specific to Muslims among their amenities.

According to Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), they are working with authorities to enhance facilities for Muslim tourists, including the establishment of prayer rooms at airports, the provision of culturally-sensitive services, as well as halal-compliant menus at restaurants.

Sivlin said: “Many Middle Eastern travellers are high-spending tourists who can contribute significantly to the national economy.”