Middle Eastern cuisine unexpectedly attracts tourists and young people in Ho Chi Minh City
Whereas in previous years the Ramadan food market organised by the Muslim community was relatively quiet, this year Middle Eastern food stalls in Ho Chi Minh City have drawn large numbers of tourists and young visitors eager to experience the cuisine.
Middle Eastern cuisine unexpectedly attracts tourists and young people in Ho Chi Minh City
MUThe Ramadan food market, located in Chanh Hung Ward in Ho Chi Minh City, is held only once a year during the month of Ramadan.
Initially, the market primarily served the city’s Muslim community and fellow followers of the faith. However, in 2026, Middle Eastern dishes have suddenly become so popular that even the vendors themselves were surprised by the frequent “sell-outs”.
The Middle Eastern food market in Chanh Hung Ward will operate only until March 19, marking the end of Ramadan. In the past, the market mainly catered to the Muslim community in Ho Chi Minh City.
Unexpectedly, it has now become a “hot trend” destination for young people and international tourists visiting the city..
The Ramadan food market, located in Alley 157 on Duong Ba Trac Street in Chanh Hung Ward, sells a variety of halal foods — dishes prepared in strict accordance with Islamic dietary laws.
The food here contains no pork and typically reflects traditional Muslim cuisine, including beef curry, spe cakes, grilled meats, fried dumplings, pumpkin cakes, roasted sweet potato cakes, and various fried dishes, with prices ranging from 10,000 VND to 100,000 VND per portion.
Halal foods prepared with authentic Middle Eastern spices and culinary styles have attracted many visitors from Muslim countries who are travelling in Ho Chi Minh City.
The dishes are sold at relatively low prices by the local Muslim community, reflecting the spirit of cultural exchange and introduction, which encourages visitors to sample a wide variety of dishes. With gentle smiles, the vendors say they hope to introduce more people to the friendly image of the Muslim community. Also present at the market are hotel staff and food delivery workers, who say many Muslim tourists feel both excited and reassured when enjoying dishes prepared by fellow believers.
At lunchtime, crowds of residents and tourists flock to the market, with many stalls selling out within just a few hours of opening.
Whereas in previous years the Ramadan food market organised by the Muslim community was relatively quiet, this year Middle Eastern food stalls in Ho Chi Minh City have drawn large numbers of tourists and young visitors eager to experience the cuisine.
