Thailand Surpasses 2024 Tourism Targets, Setting the Stage for ‘Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year’ in 2025
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly announces that international tourist arrivals in 2024 have exceeded the target of 35 million, with over 1.8 trillion Baht in tourism revenue. This achievement marks a major milestone in the country’s tourism rebound and lays the foundation for even greater growth in 2025, which has been designated the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year.”
2024 Achievements and Key Drivers of Success
- Visitor Numbers: From January 1 to December 27, 2024, Thailand welcomed 35,047,501 international visitors, surpassing its goal of 35 million.
- Tourism Revenue: The total revenue generated reached more than 1.8 trillion Baht, underscoring the strength of Thailand’s tourism sector.
TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool attributed this success to several key initiatives:
- Visa Exemptions: Citizens of 93 countries were granted visa exemptions, allowing stays of up to 60 days.
- Streamlined Immigration: The elimination of TM.6 immigration forms at 16 major border crossings eased travel for visitors.
- Increased Aviation Capacity: With the resumption and introduction of new international flight routes, Thailand saw a 26% increase in airline seat capacity, reaching 47 million seats in 2024.
High-Profile Events and Festivals
Thailand’s appeal was further enhanced by major events like:
- Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024
- Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024
- Concerts and fan events featuring Thai and international artists.
- Attractions inspired by global TV series and movie filming locations, capturing the interest of tourists from both short-haul and long-haul regions.
Enhanced Connectivity During High Season
To support the high season, flight routes were expanded across short-haul and long-haul regions:
- Short-haul regions: New routes included services from Northeast Asia, ASEAN countries, and South Asia. Notable additions include flights from Kolkata-Phuket and Beijing-Phuket, along with increased frequency from Phu Quoc-Bangkok and Hyderabad-Bangkok.
- Long-haul regions: European and North American routes grew, with new flights from London-Bangkok, Zurich-Phuket, and Vancouver-Bangkok, among others.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year
Building on 2024’s success, Thailand is positioning itself for an even more ambitious 2025, aiming to attract between 36 to 39 million international visitors and generate 1.98–2.23 trillion Baht in tourism revenue. Key strategies include:
- Hosting world-class events and festivals.
- Showcasing unique Thai cultural experiences.
- Enhancing travel convenience and offering exclusive visitor benefits.
- Collaborating with global influencers to amplify Thailand’s appeal.
Thailand’s tourism vision is clear: to become the leading tourism hub in the region by delivering exceptional experiences while fostering sustainable growth.
