BANGKOK, Thailand – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Embassy of Israel in Thailand have discussed expanding tourism cooperation to attract more high-value Israeli travelers in line with Thailand’s “Value over Volume” strategy. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool led a team of officials to welcome Dr. Alona Fisher-Kamm, ambassador of Israel to Thailand, and Eli Sneh, minister and head of the Consular Section at the Embassy of Israel, during the ambassador’s introductory visit.
The discussions included expanding direct air services between the two countries, complementing existing flights operated by EL AL and Arkia to Bangkok and Phuket. The two sides also explored joint tourism promotions and publicizing Thailand’s revised 30-day visa exemption for eligible visitors. TAT also proposed familiarization trips to introduce Israeli travelers to emerging destinations and lesser-known attractions, as well as major events such as the Songkran Festival, Loy Krathong Festival, Vijit Chao Phraya, and the Tomorrowland music festival.
Thailand has welcomed more than 179,518 Israeli visitors so far and expects the total to reach about 442,530 by the end of 2026, a 1.3 percent increase from the previous year. The visitors are projected to generate more than 43.96 billion baht in tourism revenue. Israeli travelers spend an average of 99,350 baht per trip and stay for 19.2 days, with about 93 percent traveling as Free Independent Travelers (FITs) or digital nomads. (NNT)
