Phuket– The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office has reported strong tourism performance during the New Year 2026 holiday period, with visitor arrivals and spending contributing no less than 1.143 billion baht to the local economy.
The Phuket TAT told the Phuket Express that between 31 December 2025 and 4 January 2026, Phuket welcomed a total of 325,686 visits, reflecting a clear recovery in the tourism sector. The rebound was fueled by a surge in international arrivals, particularly from Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States, supported by new direct long-haul flights introduced in late 2025.
In addition, there was a diverse calendar of cultural events and festivals, including the Thailand Biennale Phuket 2025, which enhanced visitor experiences and encouraged higher spending.
Domestic tourists: 30% of total visitors, averaging 100,171 visits. International tourists: 70% of total visitors, averaging 225,515 visits. Average length of stay: 4.01 days. Hotel occupancy rate: 80.76% across Phuket’s 1,883 hotels.
The combination of cultural programming, improved connectivity, and strong demand from long-haul markets significantly boosted Phuket’s tourism revenue. The TAT noted that the Biennale and other events not only attracted more visitors but also raised per-capita spending, reinforcing Phuket’s position as a leading destination for both leisure and cultural tourism.
