The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reports that the number of international tourists in 2024 exceeded the goal of 35 million visitors, contributing over 1.8 trillion Baht to tourism revenue.
This significant milestone underscores Thailand’s robust recovery in tourism and lays the groundwork for an even more successful year in 2025, which has been named the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year.”
For 2025, Thailand aims to attract between 36 and 39 million international visitors and generate tourism revenue of 1.98 to 2.23 trillion Baht, reinforcing its status as a leading global tourism hub that offers unparalleled experiences and promotes sustainable development throughout the industry.
Key Contributors to 2024’s Success
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool attributed this success to targeted government strategies that enhanced Thailand’s global appeal.
From January 1 to December 27, 2024, the country welcomed 35,047,501 visitors, demonstrating the effectiveness of these measures.
Significant initiatives included a visa exemption for citizens from 93 countries for stays of up to 60 days and the removal of TM.6 immigration forms at 16 major border points, which simplified the entry process.
These actions greatly enhanced travel ease, encouraging more tourists to visit Thailand.
The aviation industry also significantly contributed, with international carriers resuming and initiating new flights from major and secondary cities around the globe.
This growth increased the total capacity of airline seats to Thailand to 47 million in 2024, a 26% increase from the previous year. Additionally, over 311 extra flights were added during the high season in December, providing over 70,000 more seats.
Thailand’s attractiveness was further boosted by major events and festivals, including the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024, the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024, and various fan meet concerts with Thai and international artists.
Tourist attractions inspired by popular TV shows, music videos, and film locations also played a crucial role in attracting high-quality visitors from both short-haul and long-haul regions.
Enhanced Connectivity during the High Season
The expansion of flight routes significantly improved Thailand’s accessibility during the peak travel season:
In short-haul regions:
Northeast Asia saw increased connectivity with flights such as Ruili Airlines’ Kunming-Chiang Mai charter and Hainan Airlines’ Beijing-Phuket, along with multiple routes by Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia X, 9AIR, Spring Airlines, Eastar Jet, Jeju Airlines, and MIAT – Mongolian Airlines.
ASEAN routes included AirAsia, Vietravel Airlines, Lao Airlines, and Malindo Airways, enhancing connections within the region.
South Asia saw increased flights from AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Druk Air, IndiGo Air, Thai VietJet Air, and Air India Express, connecting major cities to Thailand.
Oceania was connected by Thai AirAsia, Air Calédonie International, and JetStar.
In long-haul regions:
European connections were strengthened by British Airways, Edelweiss, Thai Airways International, Austrian Airlines, Condor, ITA Airways, TUI, TUIfly Nordic, Thomas Cook Airlines Scandinavia, Neos Air, and Air Calédonie International.
North America was linked by Air Canada’s Vancouver-Bangkok route.
The Middle East saw expanded routes with Saudia Airlines connecting Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket.
This increased connectivity, combined with Thailand’s renowned hospitality and diverse attractions, reinforced the country’s position as a premier global tourism destination.
Looking Forward to 2025
As Thailand gears up for the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025,” TAT plans to continue this growth trajectory with strategies including:
– Hosting internationally acclaimed events and festivals.
– Highlighting distinctive Thai cultural experiences.
– Improving travel convenience and providing exclusive benefits for visitors.
– Collaborating with worldwide influencers to enhance Thailand’s allure.
Thailand’s strategy to become the top tourism hub in the region is supported by its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and fostering sustainable growth in the tourism industry.
