Latest news with #TAT
Arabian Business
15 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Inside Thailand's wellness boom: A magnet for Middle East luxury travellers
Thailand – a nation known for its golden temples, tranquil beaches, and vibrant culinary scene is now claiming another identity – the wellness capital of Asia. In recent years, Thailand has witnessed an unprecedented surge in wellness tourism, transforming into a global sanctuary for healing, transformation, and holistic living. And increasingly, this movement is being driven by travellers from the Middle East. In an exclusive interview with Arabian Business Dr. Tal Friedman, Director of Wellness Operations at RAKxa Integrative Wellness, said: 'We have observed a consistent increase in wellness travellers from the GCC and wider Middle East in recent years. These guests are increasingly seeking more than just a holiday – they are looking for personalised experiences that support specific health goals, such as stress management, hormonal balance, or post-operative recovery.' Data reveals that UAE tourists spend the most on a daily basis – THB 8,834 per person on average, making them among Thailand's highest-value visitors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is aiming for over one million visitors from the Middle East and Africa, with a revenue goal of THB 98,000 million (approximately US$2.8 billion). This represents a fundamental shift in Thailand's tourism strategy, one that recognises the Gulf's emergence as a premium travel market with distinct preferences for luxury wellness experiences. According to a recent report by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the wellness travel market is expected to reach over $1.3 trillion by 2025. The genesis of a wellness empire Thailand's journey to becoming a global wellness destination began not with government planning, but with ancient wisdom. For centuries, the kingdom's healing traditions centred around 'Nuad Thai' (traditional Thai massage), herbal medicine, and Buddhist mindfulness practices served local communities. The transformation of these practices into a global industry represents one of the most successful examples of cultural heritage monetisation in modern tourism. For decades, these traditions remained localised. But over the past two decades, Thailand's tourism authorities have deliberately evolved and packaged its ancient practices into a modern-day, world-class offering. The result? A booming industry that now rivals the likes of Bali and Switzerland in the wellness tourism space. 'Over the past decade, Thailand's wellness tourism sector has evolved from a dual narrative- on one side, focused on medical check-ups in hospitals, and on the other, centred around relaxation and spa treatments -into a far more integrated and sophisticated offering. Today, these two worlds are converging,' Friedman said. The wellness revolution accelerated in the 1990s when Thailand's government recognised the economic potential of combining traditional therapeutic practices with world-class hospitality infrastructure. The establishment of the Thai Spa Association marked a turning point, creating quality standards that would eventually earn international recognition. UNESCO's acknowledgement of traditional Thai massage as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity validated what the kingdom had long understood: its healing traditions possessed therapeutic value that transcended cultural boundaries. Today, Thailand's wellness economy encompasses multiple interconnected sectors. Wellness tourism spending in Thailand more than doubled from 2022-2023, which is one of the fastest growth rates in the world. This growth reflects a fundamental shift in how affluent travellers, particularly from the Gulf, view health and wellness experiences. The Middle Eastern connection: A strategic alliance The relationship between Thailand and Middle Eastern wellness tourists represents economic opportunism and a meeting of complementary needs. Gulf travellers, accustomed to luxury and increasingly focused on preventive healthcare, find in Thailand a unique combination of medical excellence, cultural authenticity, and value. 162,790 Middle Eastern tourists had visited Thailand by April 22, 2025, with Saudi arrivals showing significant growth. This influx isn't accidental. Thailand has systematically positioned itself to appeal to Middle Eastern sensibilities through strategic partnerships, cultural sensitivity training, and infrastructure development tailored to Gulf preferences. 'We are proud to provide the level of privacy, personalisation, and cultural sensitivity that allows our Middle Eastern guests to feel completely at ease. This includes facilities such as prayer rooms, Halal-certified cuisine, and a respectful understanding of personal and cultural preferences—key elements in delivering a seamless and luxurious experience,' Friedman explained. The appeal extends beyond mere medical procedures. Middle Eastern travellers increasingly seek holistic wellness experiences that combine physical treatment with spiritual and emotional renewal. Thailand's wellness philosophy, emphasising balance and mindfulness, resonates with Gulf visitors seeking alternatives to Western medical approaches. The wellness tourism ecosystem: Beyond traditional boundaries Thailand's modern wellness tourism industry has evolved into an ecosystem that defies simple categorisation. The sector encompasses traditional spa services, medical tourism, spiritual retreats, detox programs, and lifestyle transformation experiences. This diversity allows Thailand to cater to the varied preferences of Middle Eastern travellers, from Saudi executives seeking stress management programs to UAE families looking for comprehensive health assessments. 'Thailand is now home to some of the most innovative integrative wellness retreats globally, where traditional healing practices, modern medicine, and exceptional hospitality come together in one seamless experience. The country's strong foundation in hospitality, now encompassing many top-performing luxury hotel brands, has played a pivotal role in elevating the guest experience to be both results-driven and profoundly restorative,' said Friedman. Medical Wellness Integration: Thailand's unique strength lies in its seamless integration of medical excellence with wellness experiences. International-standard hospitals offer cutting-edge treatments while incorporating traditional Thai healing elements. Patients can undergo complex surgical procedures in the morning and enjoy traditional herbal treatments in the afternoon, all within the same facility. Luxury Wellness Resorts: The kingdom's luxury wellness resorts have redefined the concept of health-focused hospitality. These establishments combine five-star amenities with comprehensive wellness programs, offering everything from personalised nutrition consultations to meditation retreats led by Buddhist monks. For Gulf travellers accustomed to luxury, these resorts provide familiar comfort levels while delivering transformative health experiences. Preventive Health Programs: Increasingly popular among Middle Eastern visitors are Thailand's comprehensive health screening and preventive care programs. These offerings combine advanced medical diagnostics with wellness coaching, appealing to affluent Gulf residents who prioritise proactive health management. 'Middle Eastern visitors are typically drawn to programmes that deliver tangible results while offering deep restoration. Popular choices include detoxification, weight management, aesthetic therapies, hormonal balance, and physical recovery. These guests particularly value medically-informed approaches that combine advanced diagnostics with holistic therapies, enabling them to pursue comprehensive wellbeing in a relaxing and supportive environment,' he explained. Economic impact and market dynamics The financial implications of Thailand's wellness tourism success extend far beyond direct tourism revenue. The average spending of THB 60,000-70,000 per person per trip for wellness tourists, significantly higher than regular tourists, demonstrates the premium nature of this market segment. For Middle Eastern travellers specifically, the economics are even more attractive. Tourists from the UAE led in per-day spending, averaging THB 8,834, positioning them as among Thailand's most valuable visitors. This spending pattern reflects Gulf travellers' willingness to invest significantly in wellness experiences that deliver perceived value. The ripple effects extend throughout Thailand's economy. Wellness tourism supports not just hospitals and spas, but also organic farms supplying wellness resorts, traditional medicine practitioners, fitness instructors, and spiritual guides. This comprehensive ecosystem creates employment opportunities across skill levels while preserving and promoting Thai cultural heritage. Thailand's wellness tourism framework Thailand's government has played a crucial role in fostering the wellness tourism industry through targeted policies and strategic investments. The 'Medical Hub of Asia' initiative, launched in the early 2000s, established the framework for Thailand's current wellness tourism success. At Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, TAT announced a Memorandum of Cooperation with Etihad Airways, introducing new routes to Krabi and Chiang Mai. This partnership represents the kind of strategic thinking that has propelled Thailand's wellness tourism growth. By improving accessibility from key Gulf markets, Thailand reduces barriers to entry for Middle Eastern wellness tourists. The government's approach extends beyond mere promotion. Regulatory frameworks ensure quality standards, while tax incentives encourage private investment in wellness infrastructure. Professional certification programs for wellness practitioners maintain service quality, while cultural sensitivity training helps providers better serve Middle Eastern clients. The digital revolution in wellness tourism Technology has transformed how Middle Eastern travellers discover and book wellness experiences in Thailand. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and YouTube, showcase Thailand's wellness offerings to Gulf audiences. Influencer partnerships and digital marketing campaigns specifically target Middle Eastern demographics. 'As global awareness shifts from reactive healthcare to sustainable wellbeing, Thailand's unique ecosystem—blending medical expertise, traditional healing, world-class hospitality, and natural beauty—is perfectly aligned with the evolving expectations of modern travellers,' Friedman said. Telemedicine consultations allow Gulf residents to connect with Thai wellness practitioners before travelling, building relationships and customising treatment plans. This digital integration reduces uncertainty and enhances the overall experience, making Thailand more accessible to Middle Eastern wellness tourists. Thailand's wellness tourism industry stands at an inflection point. The kingdom has successfully established itself as a premier destination for Middle Eastern wellness travellers, but maintaining this position requires continued innovation and investment. Emerging trends suggest opportunities in luxury wellness real estate, long-term wellness residency programs, and integrated wellness communities. These developments could attract Gulf investors seeking lifestyle-focused investments while creating new revenue streams for Thailand's wellness industry. The integration of advanced technologies, from AI-powered health assessments to virtual reality meditation experiences, could further differentiate Thailand's wellness offerings. For tech-savvy Gulf travellers, these innovations could enhance the appeal of Thai wellness experiences. Thailand's targeting of Middle East tourists, particularly high-spending travellers seeking wellness and luxury experiences, demonstrates the country's commitment to this market. The success of this strategy suggests that Thailand's wellness tourism industry will continue to evolve, driven by the preferences and needs of its Gulf clientele. As the global wellness economy continues to expand, Thailand's position as a preferred destination for Middle Eastern wellness tourists appears secure. 'Today's guests seek more than temporary relief; they are investing in long-term health through preventive care, personalised programmes, and authentic experiences. This increasing demand for genuine, transformative wellness ensures that Thailand will remain a leading destination in the global wellness tourism sector for years to come,' Friedman concluded.
Economic Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
Thailand welcomes over 1 million Indian tourists by mid-2025
Thailand has crossed a significant tourism milestone, receiving more than one million visitors from India by mid-June 2025, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This marks a rapid recovery from the pandemic downturn and reaffirms Thailand's enduring appeal as a year-round travel latest surge builds on a record 2024, when Thailand hosted over 35 million international tourists, including 2.1 million from India. The early arrival figures for 2025 reflect India's rising outbound travel trend and underscore the growing resilience of bilateral tourism of Thailand's key attractions is its wide-ranging appeal: vibrant cities like Bangkok, cultural centres such as Chiang Mai, and beach destinations including Phuket and Krabi. Indian travellers also enjoy wellness retreats, luxury escapes, and rich culinary experiences—from street food stalls to fine-dining restaurants. Visa facilitation and smoother entry procedures have boosted the arrivals. Indian nationals can now stay visa-free for up to 60 days, and all foreign visitors, including Indians, use the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which speeds up immigration processing. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) TAT has responded with targeted strategies aimed at promoting high-value, sustainable tourism. Initiatives include joint promotions, trade events, influencer engagement, and roadshows in various Indian cities to encourage longer, more immersive stays and higher spend per traveller. With the peak travel season approaching, TAT expects the number of Indian tourists to climb further in the second half of 2025. India continues to rank among Thailand's most important source countries for international tourism.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Thailand welcomes over 1 million Indian tourists by mid-2025
Thailand has crossed a significant tourism milestone, receiving more than one million visitors from India by mid-June 2025, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This marks a rapid recovery from the pandemic downturn and reaffirms Thailand's enduring appeal as a year-round travel destination. This latest surge builds on a record 2024, when Thailand hosted over 35 million international tourists, including 2.1 million from India. The early arrival figures for 2025 reflect India's rising outbound travel trend and underscore the growing resilience of bilateral tourism ties. One of Thailand's key attractions is its wide-ranging appeal: vibrant cities like Bangkok, cultural centres such as Chiang Mai, and beach destinations including Phuket and Krabi. Indian travellers also enjoy wellness retreats, luxury escapes, and rich culinary experiences—from street food stalls to fine-dining restaurants. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 나눔도 당신처럼 아름답게, 유니세프 팀 팔찌 유니세프 지금 기부하기 Undo Visa facilitation and smoother entry procedures have boosted the arrivals. Indian nationals can now stay visa-free for up to 60 days, and all foreign visitors, including Indians, use the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which speeds up immigration processing. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) TAT has responded with targeted strategies aimed at promoting high-value, sustainable tourism. Initiatives include joint promotions, trade events, influencer engagement, and roadshows in various Indian cities to encourage longer, more immersive stays and higher spend per traveller. Live Events RECOMMENDED STORIES FOR YOU Even 'White Lotus' buzz isn't reviving Thailand's tourism slump Travelling to Thailand soon? The government has issued a health alert you must be aware of With the peak travel season approaching, TAT expects the number of Indian tourists to climb further in the second half of 2025. India continues to rank among Thailand's most important source countries for international tourism.
Skift
3 days ago
- Business
- Skift
Thailand Eyes High-Spending Markets Amid China Tourism Slump
Thailand built its tourism engine on volume, and no market delivered like China. But with Chinese arrivals nowhere near pre-pandemic numbers, Thai tourism officials are making a hard pivot: fewer tourists, but higher spenders. From January 1 to June 8, Thailand recorded more than 15 million international arrivals, according to government data. Yet that total is nearly 3% below the same period last year. Tourism revenue reached THB 699 billion ($21.5 billion), but the momentum isn't quite where the country hoped it would be by midyear. The main reason for this has been a sharp slowdown in Chinese arrivals. China, once the dominant feeder market for Thai tourism, has now slipped behind Malaysia as the top source of inbound travelers. In response, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is placing its bets on markets showing stronger returns, particularly Europe and the Middle East. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool on Tuesday said the country has been seeing real movement from European markets. Presenting the latest data, Kiatphaibool said between June 1 and 9, arrivals from Germany jumped 71% year over year. Visitors from Italy rose 28%, and Switzerland 24%. While the absolute numbers remain modest, TAT officials emphasized the significance of their spending power. 'These are high-purchasing-power travelers,' Kiatphaibool said — exactly the type of tourists Thailand's revised strategy is now prioritizing. Forward airline bookings for the third and fourth quarter look 'strong' from Europe, she added, especially heading into the winter high season. That's welcome news in a year when Thailand has already lowered its annual international tourism revenue target from THB 2.3 trillion ($69 billion) to THB 2 trillion ($60 billion). Middle East on the Rise The Middle East too has entered its own seasonal travel peak and Thailand is reaping the benefits. Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE all posted year-on-year growth of more than 50% in early June, according to TAT data. Kiatphaibool said these markets are 'performing very well.' Like their European counterparts, Middle Eastern travelers fit TAT's focus on 'quality tourism' — meaning longer stays, higher daily spending, and interest in bespoke experiences. According to Kiatphaibool, Thailand is projecting summer-period growth of 21% from Europe, 25% from the Middle East, and 7% from other Asian markets. For the winter season (October through December), bookings remain strong: up 17% from Europe, 12% from the U.S., and 22% from Asia. Malaysia and India Quietly Surge Meanwhile, Malaysia has quietly taken the lead as Thailand's top source market, with just over 2 million arrivals so far this year. Between June 1 and 9, Malaysian visits increased by more than 13% year over year. India has also crossed the one million mark. According to TAT, demand is coming not only from major metros but increasingly from smaller cities like Surat and Rajkot particularly among premium travelers. Safety concerns have dented Chinese traveler confidence. A string of events, including incidents near the Myanmar border, a fatal construction collapse in Bangkok following the March 28 earthquake, and reports of local scams targeting Chinese nationals, have all fed perceptions of insecurity. Chinese tourist arrivals crossed 2 million during the first half, but that figure pales in comparison to the yearly arrival of 11 million Chinese visitors to Thailand in 2019. Thai officials have also revised down their target for Chinese arrivals in 2025 from 8 million to 6.7 million — the same number as last year. Thailand has also seen softening from other East Asian markets, including Japan and South Korea. Refined Strategy, Trimmed Budgets TAT has also adjusted its marketing approach to match the shifting global landscape. The agency is doubling down on long-haul and mid-sized markets with stronger per-trip spending, these include the U.K., Germany, France, Russia, and the U.S. That shift comes as TAT proposed to trim its domestic subsidies and reallocate funds to attract international visitors. Budget previously earmarked for Thai travel stimulus would be redirected toward inbound charter flight subsidies and partnerships with global online travel agencies to promote tourism during off season. Thailand began the year with ambitious targets: 39 million foreign arrivals and 2.23 trillion baht in international revenue. Those figures have now been adjusted downward to 35.5 million visitors and 2 trillion baht in receipts. Even those revised numbers assume continued strength from higher-spending, long-haul markets. Nithee Seeprae, Deputy Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, at the Skift Asia Forum last month in Bangkok.
Time Out
11-06-2025
- Time Out
New STM service update: clarification issued regarding service hours
Just in time for Grand Prix weekend, frustrated commuters were locked out when they arrived seemingly on time at metro stations across the city this week. In order to address the train departure confusion during the metro and bus strike, the STM has issued a clarification regarding the difference between 'end of service' and 'last train departure'. When is the metro's end of service during the STM strike? During the first phase of the strike, the STM announced metro service would run from 6:30 a.m. to 9:38 a.m., then pause until the afternoon rush. 9:38 a.m. marks the end of service (not the last train departure) which has led to frustration this week as commuters arrived too late. According to a press release issued by the STM, the stations close as the final train completes its run, often before the end of the essential service window. Still confused? Here is an example: Montmorency bound The last train departing from Côte-Vertu métro station, toward Montmorency, is scheduled for 8:48 a.m. This train arrives at Bonaventure station at 9:07 a.m. This is the last departure from Bonaventure toward Montmorency. The train continues and ends its service at 9:34 a.m. at its terminus, which is Montmorency station. Côte-Vertu bound The last train departing from Montmorency station, toward Côte-Vertu, is scheduled for 8:53 a.m. This train arrives at Bonaventure station at 9:19 a.m. This is the last departure from Bonaventure toward Côte-Vertu. The train continues and ends its service at 9:40 a.m. at its terminus, which is Côte-Vertu station. Once these two trains have passed, Bonaventure station closes. To help commuters plan their trips, the STM has now added the final train arrival times for each station on its strike info page. Time Out Tip: Arrive at your station at least 10 minutes before the last train is scheduled to ensure you make your trip. How long is the STM strike? The STM strike is from June 9 to June 17, 2025. What does the metro strike mean for Grand Prix weekend? The regular weekend schedule will be in effect for the Canadian Grand Prix weekend (June 13, 14 and 15, 2025). How were the essential hours determined? According to the STM website, essential services are those deemed necessary to protect public health and safety and must be maintained during a labour dispute (strike). The STM and the union held several discussions to agree on which services would continue. This agreement was reviewed by the Administrative Labour Tribunal (TAT), which confirmed on June 2 that the plan was sufficient to ensure public health and safety during the June 9–17 strike.
