Activities & latest news in Thailand

MICE Cities Thailand get Flight Boost with New Routes From 11 International Airlines

If you thought Thailand’s skies couldn’t get busier, think again. In a move that’s part travel bonanza, part logistical masterpiece, 11 international airlines are rolling out new direct flights to Thailand’s key MICE cities—Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai—between now and 2025. Whether you’re here for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions (aka “MICE”), or just any excuse to leave the office and hit the beach, Thailand’s got your boarding pass covered.

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Bangkok: Where Meetings Meet Mango Sticky Rice

The Thai capital is seeing a European invasion—but the kind you actually want.

• British Airways: Back in action from London to Bangkok since October 28, with three flights weekly, upping the ante to five during January and February before settling at four in March. (Because who doesn’t like to tweak their schedule?)
• ITA Airways: Rome to Bangkok launched November 17 with a smooth five weekly flights—perfect for Romans needing a spicy curry fix.
• Thai Airways: Direct flights from Brussels to Bangkok resumed December 1. Belgian waffles and Thai food? Yes, please.
• Norse Atlantic Airways: Sneaking into the mix with flights from Stockholm to Bangkok starting October 29, 2025. This gives Swedes another reason to escape the cold and “work remotely.”

Phuket: More Sun, Less Layover

Phuket isn’t just a beachgoer’s dream; it’s now a flight hub hotter than the island’s midday sun.

• Air India: Added a second daily service from Delhi back on June 1 (except Wednesdays because, well, why not).
• Air India Express: Four shiny new weekly flights from Surat kick off December 24—just in time for Santa to bring flip-flops.
• Air Astana: Launched direct flights from Astana to Phuket on October 26. Kazakhstan meets coconuts.
• Saudia Airlines: Riyadh flights landed December 2, with Jeddah flights joining the party on December 4. Saudi sun-chasers rejoice.

Chiang Mai: Culture, Temples, and Direct Flights

The “Rose of the North” is now even more accessible for globetrotters and PowerPoint presenters alike.

• Hong Kong Airlines: Started flying direct from Hong Kong to Chiang Mai on October 27, becoming the third airline to connect the two cities after Thai AirAsia and Hong Kong Express.
• Etihad Airways: Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai gets its turn with four weekly flights starting November 4, 2025. Because who doesn’t love a winter escape to Thai temples?

Pattaya/U-Tapao: New Flights Near the Fun

Over in Pattaya, S7 Airlines is throwing Siberians a lifeline from the cold, launching five weekly flights from Irkutsk to U-Tapao Airport between March and May 2025. That’s five weekly chances to swap snow boots for sandals.

MICE Heaven with Fast-Track Immigration? Yes, Please.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) isn’t just throwing parties—it’s upgrading your arrival game. Fast-track immigration lanes are already in place in Bangkok, with Phuket and Chiang Mai hopping on board soon. As Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of TCEB, puts it: Thailand is doubling down on its status as a global MICE powerhouse, “serving both established and emerging markets with style and pad Thai.”

MICE Cities Thailand get Flight Boost

If you thought Thailand’s skies couldn’t get busier, think again. In a move that’s part travel bonanza, part logistical masterpiece,

So whether you’re jetting in for a conference, a client schmooze-fest, or just to casually “network” on the beach, Thailand’s got the flights—and the fast lanes—to make your trip seamless. Meeting adjourned, see you in Phuket.

Direct Flights Saudi Arabia to Phuket

Thailand’s tourism game just got a whole lot more interesting, thanks to Saudia’s brand-new direct flights to the island paradise of Phuket. If you thought Bangkok was the only hotspot in Thailand for Middle Eastern travelers, think again! Saudia is bringing the luxury of direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah straight to Phuket, and it’s safe to say this is a strategic move to turn this tropical gem into the next big thing for tourists from Saudi Arabia. Forget the usual layovers in Bangkok—Phuket’s calling!

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A Flight Plan That Makes Waves

Saudia’s passenger flight, SV852, which is its 1st month flight, successfully landed at Phuket International Airport last Monday, which marks the commencement of many such flights from Saudi Arabia to the island. A second flight (SV850) from Jeddah will be on the air every Wednesday. This is not a one off occurrence, it’s a proper plan to bring more Saudi tourists to Thailand’s picturesque southern part. And the tourism expansion does not end with beaches. Thailand’s off-the-beaten-path attractions are soon ready to be showcased. Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui- prepare your cameras because you are all in for a treat.

Saudi Tourists Are Getting a First-Class Ticket to Thailand

The leaders at the TAT are thankful that this decision has been implemented as it will be a 'game-changer' in promoting tourism outside Bangkok.Tourism in Thailand seems to be benefitting significantly from the Saudi tourists. In fact, over 180,000 Saudi Arabians went on vacation overseas within the first 10 months of 2024, a staggering 30% increase over the previous year’s number. With direct flights available to Phuket, expect the number to venture even more higher. Since those who are visiting from Saudi Arabia are not just arriving — they are spending.. While the average international purchased a trip that costs around 5,000 HK dollars for a duration of about 8 days in Thailand, Saudi tourists are spending over 80,000 baht which is impressive to some. Who wants to assist in utilizing all of that cash which has been regurgitated back into the economy?

Phuket's About to Get the VIP Treatment

Phuket is no stranger to international tourists, but now that the island’s getting direct access to wealthy Saudi travelers, things are about to get even more glamorous. Think luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and a nightlife scene that’s second to none. With three weekly flights now whisking passengers from Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket, expect this beautiful island to start feeling like a Middle Eastern hotspot. Forget Bangkok’s hustle and bustle; Phuket’s laid-back vibe is set to be the new go-to for Saudis craving sun and sand.

The Economic Ripple Effect: Bigger Wallets, Bigger Impact

More Saudi visitors means more high-end shopping, indulgent spa days, and extravagant dinners at five-star restaurants. You know what that means: Phuket's luxury sector is about to get a major boost. Local businesses, especially those in hospitality, are already gearing up for an influx of spending power. Tourism is a huge part of Thailand’s economy, and this growing trend from Saudi Arabia is a golden opportunity for a post-pandemic economic boost. With air connectivity to Phuket now more accessible than ever, local businesses can expect their profits to rise as high as the Thai sun.

Stronger Ties and Smoother Skies

There is great opportunity for Phuket’s tourism as this is good news with drawbacks. Not only does it spell more tourists for the region, but it further signifies the improvement of relations between two nations – Thailand and Saudi Arabia. And it doesn’t stop here – besides just changing the flight schedule, it’s a big step forward in increasing interaction, integration into tourism sphere, and so on. And who wouldn’t? There is potential for even larger business interactions to take place with the Saudis being able to travel much more easily.

Direct Flights Saudi Arabia to Phuket

As Thailand continues to diversify its appeal, these direct flights to Phuket are just the beginning. With tourism targets set to reach 330,000 Saudi visitors by 2024, Thailand’s beaches and culture are fast becoming a must-see for the region. The new air link is already sparking interest, and the Thai tourism industry is ready to capitalize on the growing number of high-spending tourists. Phuket, get ready: the Saudis are coming, and they’re bringing their wallets.