The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently celebrated the launch of the inaugural Air Arabia daily direct flight from Sharjah to Krabi. This service aims to enhance air connectivity between Thailand and the Middle East, catering to the rising demand from affluent travelers.
The event took place on 29 November and was overseen by Sasithorn Kittidhrakul, Deputy Minister of Interior, along with Angkoon Silathewakul, Governor of Krabi Province. Notable attendees also included Santi Sawangcharoen, TAT’s Executive Director for the Americas, Middle East, and Africa Region, and Wajanan Silpawornwiwat, Executive Director of the Southern Region, together with partners from both the public and private sectors.
Santi Sawangcharoen emphasized:
“Expanding air access is central to TAT’s commitment to strengthening Thailand’s position on the global tourism map. The Sharjah–Krabi service reflects the progress of our Airline Focus strategy and how strategic partnerships can unlock new gateways for high-value travelers. The Middle East remains a strong market, and this new route enhances connectivity while directing broader benefits to local communities.”
In addition, the service aligns with Thailand’s objective of prioritizing quality over quantity in tourism, drawing affluent visitors to new destinations, ultimately benefiting local economies in sectors ranging from hospitality to wellness.
With Air Arabia set to operate one flight daily on the Sharjah–Krabi route, over 5,220 additional seats per month will be made available. The route will contribute to enhancing access for Middle Eastern travelers and long-haul passengers from Europe and North Africa seeking effortless connections to southern Thailand’s premier destinations.
The TAT and Air Arabia are organizing a familiarization trip for media representatives and corporate clients to explore Krabi from 28 November to 4 December 2025. This initiative follows previous joint efforts, including a recent media launch in Dubai, promoting Krabi as a destination.
The Middle East continues to be a vibrant source market for Thailand, with GCC travelers indicating significant interest in premium experiences.
As of November 2025, more than 728,340 arrivals from the Middle East were recorded, with expectations to surpass 850,000 by the end of the year.
