Bua Lai (Thai: บัวลาย, pronounced [būa̯ lāːj]) is a district (amphoe) in the northeastern part of Nakhon Ratchasima province, northeastern Thailand.

The area of Bua Lai was separated from Bua Yai district and made a minor district (king amphoe) on 1 July 1997.

[1] Most of the people of Bua Lai originally migrated there from Maha Sarakham and Roi Et provinces.

[2] With publication in the Royal Gazette on 24 August the upgrade became official.

[3] Neighboring districts are (from the north clockwise): Waeng Noi and Phon of Khon Kaen province and Prathai, Sida, and Bua Yai.