Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office, at Saudi Travel Market 2025 shared exclusive insights into Thailand’s significant growth in the Middle Eastern market, particularly from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. At Saudi Travel Market 2025, Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office highlighted Thailand’s diverse offerings, which cater to a range of tourists from luxury travelers and families to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) groups. He emphasized Thailand’s ongoing efforts to attract high-net-worth individuals with its premium resorts and unique experiences in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket.

Furthermore, Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office discussed the increasing importance of sustainability in Thailand’s tourism strategy. TAT encourages travelers to explore community-based tourism and promotes sustainable tourism providers. The Tourism Authority’s aim is to attract more visitors from the Middle East, ensuring a blend of luxury, adventure, and responsibility while maintaining eco-friendly practices.

Introduction to Amazing Thailand’s Growth in the Middle East

Thailand is well known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and world-class hospitality. The country has always been a popular destination for travelers worldwide, but the Middle Eastern market, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, has seen impressive growth in recent years. At Saudi Travel Market 2025, Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office, spoke exclusively with Travel and Tour World, sharing key insights into Thailand’s tourism expansion, the growing interest from the Middle East, and how Thailand is meeting the demands of travelers from this region.

The Importance of Saudi Arabia in Thailand’s Tourism Strategy

For Thailand, Saudi Arabia is one of the key markets in the Middle East. According to Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office the number of Saudi tourists visiting Thailand has been growing steadily. In 2024, more than 228,000 Saudis visited Thailand, making Saudi Arabia the top GCC market for Thailand. This growth represents an increase of 28% compared to the previous year, signaling a strong demand for Thailand among Saudi travelers.

“We’re thrilled to be at Saudi Travel Mart this year, as it’s the perfect platform to engage with the Saudi market and continue expanding our footprint,” said Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office. “KSA is our number one market in the GCC, and we’re eager to maintain and grow that connection.”

A 25% Growth Target for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set ambitious targets for further expansion. With the market growing at a rapid pace, TAT aims to achieve a 25% growth in tourist arrivals from Saudi Arabia, further cementing Thailand’s position as a leading destination for GCC travelers.

Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office emphasized, “We expect to grow again by at least 25% in 2025, and we’re working closely with our partners here in Saudi Arabia to make that happen.”

MICE Tourism: Thailand’s Appeal for B2B Travelers

In addition to leisure travel, Thailand has also seen a significant rise in MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) from the Middle East, especially from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. With world-class facilities in cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, Thailand has become a popular destination for corporate events and large-scale conferences.

“Thailand is an ideal destination for MICE travelers from the Middle East,” said Chaisri. “We offer large ballrooms, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and a wide range of hotels to cater to the needs of the MICE market. Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket are among the top destinations for business events and incentives.”

Thailand’s reputation for luxury and convenience has made it an attractive option for high-end corporate meetings and incentive trips. It is also an ideal destination for exhibitions due to its strategic location, top-tier infrastructure, and diverse offerings.

UAE Market: A Repeated Customer Base

The UAE is another important market for Thailand, with the country ranking as the second largest source of Middle Eastern tourists to Thailand. In 2024, approximately 180,000 Emiratis visited Thailand, reflecting strong demand from this market.

“UAE is a unique market compared to Saudi Arabia,” Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office shared. “Emiratis are more likely to be repeated visitors, so they’re always looking for something new and unique. They are interested in exploring second-tier cities in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai, Krabi, and other hidden gems.”

Emirati travelers tend to look for experiences beyond the usual tourist destinations, and this offers Thailand an opportunity to promote its lesser-known attractions.

B2C Segment: Luxury, Honeymooners, and Family Travel

The B2C segment remains a major focus for Thailand, particularly with high-net-worth individuals and families seeking luxury vacations. According to Chaisri, more than half of the visitors from the Middle East to Thailand are families, while around 20% are interested in luxury travel, and 10% are honeymooners.

When launching campaigns in the B2C market, TAT focuses on differentiating each offering to appeal to various segments. This includes targeted partnerships with airlines and travel agencies that specialize in luxury travel.

“We work closely with partners like Emirates, Fly Dubai, and Saudia Airlines, and we’ve hosted events with these partners to promote Thailand,” said Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office.

Connectivity Between Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Thailand

One of the key factors driving Thailand’s growth in the Middle East is the excellent connectivity between the two regions. Major airlines, including Saudi Airlines, Flynas, Fly Dubai, and Emirates, offer frequent direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dubai to key Thai cities like Bangkok and Phuket.

“Saudi Airlines has direct flights from both Jeddah and Riyadh to Bangkok, as well as direct flights to Phuket,”Hatsanai Chaisri, Marketing Manager – MEA, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Dubai & Middle East Office pointed out. “For those looking for additional options, travelers can fly via Emirates, Fly Dubai, or Qatar Airways.”

Sustainability and Responsible Tourism

Sustainability is a growing concern in the travel industry, and Thailand is committed to promoting responsible tourism practices. Chaisri highlighted Thailand’s dedication to eco-friendly initiatives, including working with sustainable tourism providers and promoting community-based tourism experiences.

“We work with tour operators who are certified for their sustainable practices,” Chaisri explained. “Additionally, we encourage tourists to explore local experiences, visit villages, and engage with community-based tourism. This way, we promote sustainable tourism while offering tourists an authentic experience.”

TAT has also partnered with influencers and bloggers to share sustainable travel tips and encourage responsible tourism.

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The post Amazing Thailand Amazes Middle East Travel Sector at Saudi Travel Market 2025: A Deep Dive into Market Expansion, Luxury Travel, and Sustainability appeared first on Travel And Tour World.