Mona Lisa Relocation 2031: What Muslim Travellers Should Know About the Louvre Makeover

There’s exciting news for art lovers and curious travellers planning a trip to Paris in the coming years — the Mona Lisa, arguably the most famous painting in the world, will be getting a new home inside the Louvre Museum by 2031!

Yes, you read that right. The Louvre, one of the most visited museums globally, is about to undergo a major transformation under the ambitious "New Renaissance" project. And this is not just about the painting; it's about making the entire museum more visitor-friendly — including better facilities that Muslim travellers can appreciate.

Let’s dive into what’s changing and how it can enhance the future visit.

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Why the move?

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It’s no secret that the Louvre has been struggling with overcrowding. With more than 9 million visitors every year (about 30,000 people daily!), most of them rush to see the Mona Lisa. Fun fact: the average person only spends about 50 seconds in front of her! It's a fast-paced experience, and honestly, not the most comfortable.

Museum director Laurence des Cars shared that the Louvre’s famous glass pyramid entrance, built back in 1989, just can’t keep up with these massive crowds anymore. Plus, the current setup makes it tough for anyone to enjoy the masterpiece properly.

So, to solve this, the Louvre is giving the Mona Lisa a fresh, new space — a specially designed exhibition hall where visitors can enjoy the painting at a more relaxed pace, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What’s new at the Louvre?

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The "New Renaissance" project is more than just relocating a painting. It’s a complete reimagining of the museum experience. Here’s what to look forward to:

• A stunning new exhibition hall for the Mona Lisa

Get ready to see the famous smile in a calm, beautifully designed environment. Perfect for taking your time and really soaking in the details.

• A second entrance to ease congestion

There’s going to be an international design competition to build a new entrance, which will help manage the flow of visitors much better. Great news for anyone who has ever queued for hours just to get inside!

• Underground expansion

New exhibition spaces will be created under the Cour Carré, connected seamlessly to the existing galleries beneath the pyramid.

• A greener east façade

The Louvre’s east side will be transformed into a welcoming, tree-lined public space. This is fantastic for anyone looking to relax between exploring galleries — and it’s always a bonus to have green, shaded areas for rest or even quick outdoor prayer breaks.

• Facility upgrades (Yes, including restrooms!)

The museum is getting a much-needed upgrade to its amenities, like modern toilets and more comfortable lounge areas. This is a big win for Muslim travellers looking for cleaner spaces for wudhu (ablution) and rest.

• Better dining options

The new restaurant plans open the possibility for halal-friendly meals or at least clearer food labelling. While halal options haven’t been confirmed yet, the general trend in Paris museums is moving toward more inclusive menus. Fingers crossed!

What about costs?

The project will cost hundreds of millions of euros, but there’s good news — it’s being funded by ticket sales, private donations, and sponsorship with Louvre Abu Dhabi (yes, a lovely cultural connection!). French taxpayers won’t be footing the bill, but starting in January 2026, non-EU tourists (including the UK) should expect higher entrance fees.

So, if you’re planning your Paris trip after 2026, make sure to check the latest ticket prices.

HalalZilla tip: Always book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially if you're visiting during busy seasons like Ramadan or the summer holidays.

A cultural renaissance in Paris

Image credit: Andrey X | Canva Pro

This project is the biggest update the Louvre has seen since the 1980s "Grand Louvre" project under President François Mitterrand. And it fits right in with President Macron’s broader cultural vision, which includes the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral after the devastating fire of 2019.

For Muslim travellers, this means an even richer Parisian experience. With improved spaces for relaxation, better crowd control, and upgraded amenities, the Louvre is positioning itself as a more welcoming destination for everyone, including families, elderly visitors, and Muslim tourists seeking comfort and convenience.

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Final thoughts

By 2031, the Mona Lisa will be smiling in a brand-new home, and visitors will enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable museum experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just ticking the Louvre off your Paris bucket list, these changes promise to make your visit unforgettable.