Bangkok, 10 October 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted a welcome reception at Krabi International Airport for the inaugural Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on 9 October 2025. The milestone marks an important step in expanding air connectivity between Thailand and the Middle East, while reinforcing Krabi’s position as a leading destination for beach, wellness, cultural, and sustainable tourism.
The welcoming ceremony was presided over by Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, together with Ms. Sasithorn Kittidhrakul, Deputy Minister of Interior; Mr. Chayatan Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport; Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor; Mr. Ratthasart Chidchoo, Governor of Krabi Province; and Mr. Danai Ruengsorn, Director-General of the Department of Airports, along with TAT executives and representatives from government and private sector tourism partners.
Passengers arriving on flight EY424, operated by an Airbus A321LR with 160 seats, were greeted with a traditional Thai performance and special souvenirs, reflecting the warmth and hospitality embodied in the Amazing Thailand brand.
The new Abu Dhabi–Krabi route increases seat capacity between Thailand and the Middle East by approximately 7,650 seats per month — an increase of about 16 per cent over current levels — thereby enhancing convenience for travellers and stimulating regional tourism growth.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “This new direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Krabi opens fresh opportunities for sustainable tourism development in southern Thailand. TAT is committed to empowering local destinations to deliver authentic, high-quality experiences that blend cultural richness with environmental responsibility and community engagement.”
Building on this vision, Mr. Ratthasart Chidchoo, Governor of Krabi Province, added that the province is ready to welcome travellers from Abu Dhabi and beyond. “Krabi is not only famed for its spectacular islands and marine attractions but also for its rich cultural and community-based tourism experiences. Visitors can discover authentic local lifestyles and distinctive encounters that make Krabi truly memorable,” he said.
Krabi’s strong foundation in sustainability further reinforces its appeal. Earlier this month, Lanta Archipelago National Park was named among Thailand’s ten winners in the 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories, underscoring the province’s leadership in responsible tourism through the Krabi Prototype model supported by TAT.
Ms. Thapanee added that the new Etihad Airways service reflects TAT’s ongoing collaboration with international carriers to enhance access to southern Thailand and expand the Middle East travel market. “The route complements TAT’s efforts to attract high-value visitors seeking health and wellness, luxury, family, and halal-friendly experiences. With Thailand’s growing reputation as a global Medical and Wellness Hub, we are committed to offering meaningful travel experiences that reflect the essence of Amazing Thailand,” she said.
To further promote the new connection, the TAT Dubai Office has organised a familiarisation trip for Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to explore Krabi. The itinerary highlights local gastronomy, cultural identity, and themed experiences such as Hidden Gem Cities and the Jurassic World: Rebirth film location route, showcasing southern Thailand’s diverse appeal to discerning Middle Eastern travellers.
Between January and September 2025, Thailand welcomed approximately 618,000 visitors from the Middle East, with arrivals projected to reach 850,000 by year-end. Middle Eastern tourists spend an average of 10 days in Thailand and about 104,000 Baht per trip, reinforcing the kingdom’s tourism growth and its positioning as a welcoming, world-class destination for global travellers.
