Phuket–
The ongoing unrest in the Middle East has begun to ripple across Thailand’s tourism sector, with Phuket reporting significant losses in both visitor numbers and revenue.
Thanes Tantipiriya, President of the Phuket Tourist Association, revealed that since the outbreak of conflict on February 28th, the province has seen a sharp decline in arrivals, particularly from airlines based in the Middle East. These carriers account for around 5–6% of flights into Phuket International Airport, and their absence has already impacted the island’s tourism economy.
Hotels across Phuket have reported a drop in occupancy rates, with customer losses estimated between 6–10%. The most affected segment is long-haul European travelers, who typically arrive via Middle Eastern airlines. Known for their high spending power and extended stays, this group represents roughly 10% of Phuket’s tourism revenue.
In March 2025 alone, Phuket generated 55 billion baht in tourism income. However, the conflict has cut into that figure by an estimated 5.5 billion baht. Earlier this year, between January and February, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported Phuket’s tourism revenue at 190 billion baht, showing the scale of the island’s reliance on international visitors.
The Phuket Tourist Association continues to monitor the situation closely, working with airlines, hotels, and government agencies to assess the evolving impact. While the island remains one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, the current geopolitical instability highlights its vulnerability to external shocks.
