Attakorn chaired a meeting to address the Middle East crisis, instructing all agencies to closely care for tourists and coordinate with airlines, hotels, and immigration to minimize the impact on Thai tourism.
On 9 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Attakorn Sirilattayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, chaired a meeting to monitor the situation and discuss ways to assist tourists affected by unrest in the Middle East region. The meeting was held in the conference room on the 9th floor of the Chalermprakiat Government Complex, Building C, Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Executives and relevant agencies participated to assess tourism impacts and prepare close-response measures.
The meeting received a report on the overall international tourism situation. From January to February 2026, over 6.54 million foreign tourists arrived in Thailand, a slight decrease from the same period last year, generating accumulated tourism revenue of more than 320 billion baht. Markets affected by unrest in the Middle East and related flight routes showed signs of slowing, especially among some tourists from Europe and the Middle East.
Additionally, related agencies reported on flight disruptions caused by cancellations or route changes, as well as efforts to assist tourists who might face difficulties returning home. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has integrated cooperation with aviation authorities, immigration, and tourism agencies to facilitate and continuously assist tourists.
The ministry discussed assistance measures for tourists, including coordinating with airlines, providing information and support through the Tourist Assistance Center (TAC) at major airports, coordinating with immigration for tourists needing to extend their stay, and requesting hotel operators to consider adjusting accommodation rates when tourists cannot return as scheduled, to care for visitors and build confidence in Thai tourism.
