Cambodia has taken a significant step toward attracting more Muslim travelers by introducing dedicated prayer rooms at Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport. Tourism officials and industry leaders are calling the initiative a milestone in the Kingdom’s efforts to become a more inclusive and welcoming destination.
The facilities, available to both domestic and international passengers, reflect the government’s broader policy of promoting religious harmony and cultural respect.
“Muslims are required to pray five times daily, and these rooms fulfill that essential obligation,” said Katoeu Mohammad Nossry, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Tourism. “Each room is equipped with qibla direction, prayer mats, garments for women, and copies of the Holy Quran.”
He added that the government is committed to positioning Cambodia as a Muslim-friendly destination through a variety of strategies, including stronger engagement with ambassadors, tour operators, and service providers to better understand the needs of Muslim travelers.
Industry leaders believe the move will enhance Cambodia’s appeal on the global stage. Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Tourism Association, said the new facilities go beyond convenience by fostering trust.
“With the global Muslim travel market expanding rapidly, prayer rooms make travel smoother and show Muslim tourists that they are respected here,” she said. “This kind of cultural inclusivity will encourage more visitors to choose Cambodia.”
Kim Minea, CEO of the Cambodia Tourism Board, echoed this view, noting that similar facilities are standard at major airports worldwide. “It’s a strong signal of Cambodian hospitality,” he said. “By offering these services, we demonstrate that every traveler is valued, regardless of faith.”
For Muslim residents and visitors, the development has been warmly welcomed. Lee Hanan, a Muslim living in Phnom Penh, said the initiative provides reassurance for both locals and international tourists.
“These prayer rooms will make Muslim travelers, especially from the Middle East, feel comfortable and respected,” she said. “Prayer is at the heart of our faith, and I’m grateful the government has recognized this need.” She also encouraged her community to help maintain cleanliness and order in the facilities to ensure a positive experience for arriving visitors.
The prayer rooms are part of the government’s Muslim Tourism Development Plan (2023–2027), which outlines goals to improve services, upgrade infrastructure, train human resources, and strengthen private-sector participation in Muslim tourism.
Last December, Cambodia hosted the Muslim Friendly Tourism Forum 2024 under the theme “The Beauty of Harmonization and Muslim Friendly Tourism Destination.” The event showcased halal dining, cultural heritage, and strategies to attract Muslim travelers in an increasingly competitive global market.
Tourism statistics highlight the potential. Out of 6.6 million international arrivals in 2024, more than 445,000 were Muslim tourists. In the first seven months of 2025 alone, that figure had already reached over 258,000.
Adding momentum, Etihad Airways will begin direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Phnom Penh on October 3, further strengthening Cambodia’s connectivity with the Middle East.
With Islam now representing around 24 percent of the global population — roughly 2 billion people — Cambodia’s proactive steps toward inclusivity are expected to secure a greater share of this fast-growing tourism market.
Post a Comment