<p>Aluminum alloy is one of the most promising lightweight materials. Despite this, there are still many limitations in the future use of aluminum alloys due to issues such as low hardness, extreme wear, and poor oxidation resistance at high temperatures. Laser cladding has the advantages of small heat-affected zone, low dilution rate, and good metallurgical bonding between the substrate and coating. It provides a new way for surface modification of aluminum alloys. An extensive analysis of the state of research and emerging developments in aluminum alloy surface laser cladding technology is presented in this review paper. First, the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum alloys and the principles and parameters of laser cladding technology are introduced. Secondly, the classification and characteristics of commonly used laser cladding materials on aluminum alloys are analyzed, including metal-based alloys, high-entropy alloys, and ceramic-reinforced composite materials. Following that, the present issues and limitations with this technology were highlighted, along with the application prospects of laser cladding technology in high-temperature anti-oxidation coatings and wear-resistant self-lubricating coatings. Finally, the numerical simulation method and optimization strategy of laser cladding are introduced to provide theoretical guidance for process design and performance prediction. This article provides a useful reference for the development of aluminum alloy surface laser cladding technology.</p>