Bangkok, 26 November 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) notes the confirmation that Thailand has been selected as the host country for the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) 2026, the world’s premier platform for the global wellness economy. The announcement was made by the Global Wellness Institute during GWS 2025 in Dubai, held from 18–21 November.
The host-country achievement was led by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, in partnership with Phuket Province and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine under the Ministry of Public Health. Presented under the theme “The Symphony of Wellness”, the bid reflects Thailand’s ambition to build on its long-standing reputation as a wellness tourism destination and contribute more prominently to the global wellness economy.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “We congratulate the organisations that led Thailand’s successful bid to host the Global Wellness Summit 2026. TAT stands ready to support their efforts and to help ensure a memorable and productive event in Phuket. Thailand’s diverse wellness strengths, from traditional therapies to nature-based experiences, provide a strong foundation for welcoming the global wellness community next year.”
The Global Wellness Summit 2026, scheduled for 10–13 November in Phuket, is expected to welcome more than 600 delegates from over 30 countries, including leading experts, investors, policymakers, Fortune 500 executives and researchers. Early assessments indicate that the event will generate positive economic momentum and support high-value business and policy engagement across the wider wellness sector.
Thailand’s readiness to host GWS 2026 builds on years of progress in health and wellness development, driven by capabilities in medical services, holistic therapies, traditional Thai medicines and emerging health innovation. Confidence in Thailand’s wellness offerings has grown steadily in key international markets, including the Gulf region, where demand for Thai healthcare and wellbeing services continues to rise. This direction was further strengthened by TAT’s annual Middle East Luxury Trade Meet, with the third edition taking place in Kuwait on 24 November and in Bahrain on 26 November, highlighting Thailand’s appeal as a destination for premium wellness and lifestyle experiences.
Meanwhile, host city Phuket is advancing its strategy to evolve into a Global Wellness Capital, strengthening its ecosystem across longevity services, medical innovation, wellness hospitality and health-driven urban development. Hosting GWS 2026 is expected to support this long-term direction by encouraging investment, building international confidence and positioning Phuket as a rising Asian hub within the fast-growing wellness economy.
Thailand’s commitment to wellness has been central to TAT’s tourism direction for many years, reflected in a range of health, wellbeing and mindful-travel initiatives, including the recent global campaign “Unforgettable Experience: Healing is the New Luxury”. GWS 2026 provides an opportunity to further highlight Thailand’s strengths in holistic wellbeing and to work alongside national and international partners to support the summit’s success.
