1. The Growing Muslim Community in Vietnam
The Muslim population in Vietnam is relatively small, making up less than 1% of the population, but it holds a deep-rooted presence, particularly among the Cham ethnic minority. These communities have preserved their Islamic heritage for centuries, especially in the southern regions such as An Giang, Tay Ninh, and Ho Chi Minh City.As a result, mosques in Vietnam are not just places of worship—they’re cultural hubs, educational centers, and symbols of resilience. Many are open to visitors who want to learn more about Islam, Cham culture, and the unique blend of local and Islamic traditions.2. Where Can You Find a Mosque in Vietnam?
While Vietnam does not have a vast number of mosques like some neighboring countries, you can find them in cities and provinces where Muslim communities are concentrated. Here are the most notable areas:- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The largest number of mosques in Vietnam can be found here, especially in Districts 1, 3, 5, and Phu Nhuan. Many mosques serve Indian, Cham, and Malaysian Muslims.
- An Giang Province: This is where a majority of the Cham Muslim population lives. You’ll find historic mosques here, rich in Cham architecture.
- Hanoi: The capital only has one mosque, but it’s an important spiritual place for both locals and Muslim tourists.
- Tay Ninh and Ninh Thuan: These regions also host Cham communities and Islamic places of worship.
3. Top 8 Mosque in Vietnam You Should Visit
3.1. Jamia Al-Noor Mosque – The Only Mosque in Northern Vietnam
Address: 12 Hang Luoc Street, Hoan Kiem District, HanoiOpen Time: 4:00 – 19:00 every dayJamia Al-Noor Mosque is the only mosque in Vietnam located in the North. Situated in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter, this mosque is hard to miss with its distinctive white walls and traditional Islamic symbols.Built in 1885, the mosque has stood through many of Hanoi’s historical changes. It serves as a spiritual hub for both Vietnamese and international Muslims. Every Friday at 12:30 PM, a large number of Muslims gather for prayer. The atmosphere is peaceful, and carpets are rolled out for the crowd.Inside, visitors can admire its classic Islamic design, featuring arches, domes, and a serene courtyard. As the only mosque in Vietnam in this region, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual life of Northern Muslims.
3.2. Mubarak Mosque – The Oldest Mosque in Vietnam
Address: Chau Giang Village, Chau Phong Commune, Tan Chau, An GiangOpen Time: DailyBuilt in 1750, Mubarak Mosque is not only the oldest mosque in Vietnam but also a national heritage site. It is located in the Chăm village of Chau Giang in An Giang Province, which borders Cambodia. The architecture reflects a combination of Middle Eastern Islamic design and Cham cultural elements. The white and green color palette adds to its serene beauty. It has a large open space surrounded by peaceful surroundings and palm trees.When visiting this mosque in Vietnam, you will not only see a religious building but also experience the deep-rooted Cham Muslim culture. Local elders often rest in the corridors, and the community gathers here not just for prayers but also for festivals and education.
3.3. Jamia Al-Musulman Mosque – A Historical Site in Ho Chi Minh City
Address: 66 Dong Du Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh CityOpen Time: 4:15 – 19:45 every dayBuilt in 1935, Jamia Al-Musulman is one of the most important mosques in Ho Chi Minh. Located in the bustling District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, it was originally established to serve Muslims from South India who had migrated here.The mosque in Vietnam is easily recognizable by its green domes and South Indian-inspired architecture. Today, it welcomes Muslims from Pakistan, India, Indonesia, and beyond. Many tourists also come to admire the architecture and learn more about Islam.Every Friday and on Islamic holidays like Eid and Ramadan, the mosque becomes a lively gathering space for worshippers and visitors.
3.4. Masjid Al-Ehsan Mosque – A Cham Cultural Treasure
Address: Da Phuoc Cham Village, An Phu, An Giang ProvinceOpen Time: Open all days, prayers five times dailyLocated in the Cham village of Da Phuoc, Masjid Al-Ehsan is another spiritual landmark in An Giang. This mosque in Vietnam is popular for its stunning architectural style, which looks very similar to Middle Eastern mosques, especially those in Dubai.The building is tall and wide, painted white with green accents. The onion-shaped domes and crescent moons make it easily recognizable. Visitors are welcomed by local Cham people who often share stories of their religion and community.This mosque in Vietnam is the heart of the village, hosting weddings, community meetings, and cultural events.
3.5. Jamul An Ar Mosque – Hidden in the Alleys of Ho Chi Minh City
Address: Duong Ba Trac Street, District 8, Ho Chi Minh CityOpen Time: All daysThis small yet sacred mosque in Vietnam is located deep inside the alleys of District 8. It might take some time to find it, but the effort is well worth it. Once you enter, you’ll be amazed by the walls full of Islamic symbols.Jamul An Ar is the religious home for many Cham people, Indonesians, and Malaysians living in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a quiet space where Muslims come to pray and reflect. People often stop by just to talk with the Cham worshippers and learn about their beliefs. This mosque in Vietnam provides not only spiritual guidance but also community support.
3.6. Jamiul Islamiyah Mosque – Ho Chi Minh City
Address: 495B Tran Hung Dao Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh CityOpening Hours: 4:15 – 19:45 every dayCommonly referred to as “Nancy Mosque”, this mosque was originally constructed in 1950 and stands as a significant hub for Cham Muslims in the city. The mosque’s facade is marked by bold arches and geometric patterns, with prayer halls that can accommodate hundreds of worshippers. It plays an active role in the spiritual life of the community, offering daily prayers, Friday sermons, and Quranic studies. The area around the mosque is vibrant with halal eateries such as Pho Muslim, adding to its appeal for visitors seeking both spiritual and culinary nourishment.3.7. Masjid Niamatul-Islamiyah – Ho Chi Minh City
Address: 360 Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh CityOpening Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PMBuilt in 1952, Masjid Niamatul-Islamiyah is a modest yet spiritually vibrant mosque serving a community of Cham, Indian, and Chinese Muslims. The mosque features a large, open prayer hall and is often used for religious classes and cultural discussions. The strong sense of community makes this mosque a welcoming place for new visitors, and many international tourists have commented on the warmth and hospitality they experience here.3.8. Jamiul Azhar Mosque – An Giang Province
Address: Chau Phong Ward, Tan Chau Town, An GiangOpening Hours: Open all day except on Sunday and FridayThe largest mosque in An Giang Province, Jamiul Azhar, was established in 1959. Its striking dome and minaret are visible from a distance, making it a local landmark. The mosque serves as the main religious center for Muslims in the Chau Doc area, offering daily prayers, Islamic classes, and community services. An Islamic cemetery sits in front of the mosque, underscoring its importance to the spiritual lives of the Cham Muslims.4. Tips When Visiting a Mosque in Vietnam
When visiting a mosque in Vietnam, here are some simple tips to follow:Dress modestly. Wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts.
Take off your shoes before entering the prayer area.
Avoid visiting during prayer time unless you are joining the prayer.
Always ask before taking photos.
Be respectful and quiet inside the mosque.
Plan your Friday prayers ahead of time. Some mosque in Vietnam, like Jamia Al-Noor in Hanoi and Jamia Al-Musulman in Ho Chi Minh City, hold Jumu’ah prayers around 12:30 PM.