Tourism Israel-Iran Conflict Puts a Damper on Thailand's Tourist Dreams

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Picture courtesy of Kasikorn Research Center

 

The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict is wreaking havoc on Israel's travel plans to Thailand. Flight disruptions and soaring airfares are projected to cut the growth of the Israeli tourist market this year.

 

Many Israelis seeking to escape the turmoil are finding themselves stranded in Phuket and Samui, unable to secure flights back home.

 

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, highlighted that airspace closures across the Middle East are a significant barrier for travellers. He predicts Israeli arrivals could see a steep 29% decline in June, extending through the third quarter.

 

This is a stark contrast to previous projections by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which aimed for a 52% increase in Israeli visitors, totalling 427,000 arrivals this year.

 

The TAT has prepared two potential scenarios reflecting the conflict's impact. If tensions ease by the third quarter, they anticipate 350,000 arrivals, marking a 24% increase.

 

However, a prolonged conflict could bring about only 335,000 arrivals, representing 19% growth. Despite current challenges, Israeli arrivals posted a remarkable 76% increase in the first five months, fuelling hopes for some growth in the year.

 

The conflict has far-reaching effects beyond just tourism numbers. Many countries have issued travel advisories against visiting Israel, affecting travel sentiment.

 

Moreover, the prolonged conflict is expected to cut into Israel’s economic growth and its citizens’ ability to travel abroad. Since June 13, Israel's airspace has been shut, impacting airlines like El Al, which used to operate numerous flights to Bangkok and Phuket.

 

Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, noted that Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao are particularly affected, with many Israelis unable to return home.

 

His own accommodation business experienced significant cancellations worth 1.6 million baht from Israeli tourists. Other hoteliers are encountering similar setbacks, highlighting the broader economic impact.

 

Rangsiman Kingkaew, president of the Tourism Council of Phuket, mentioned collaboration with local operators to assist stranded tourists needing accommodation.

 

Although this is low season, there is concern about the broader tourism industry. Rising oil prices could lead to more expensive airfares, further complicating the situation for tourists and operators alike.

 

Ultimately, while the Israeli market in Thailand might still grow slightly this year, ongoing conflict and economic factors may overshadow these gains. 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-21

 

 

 

[ikke1959]

Nonsense.. Most flights are booked weeks before departure, and the Israeli-Iran conflict is just escalating in the last week.. Thailand should be happy that less Israeli tourists are coming as they caused a lot of trouble as we could  read here

[JoePai]

Excuses, excuses - a fly farts in Brazil and the TAT would blame that for the lack of tourists

[ozz1]

Anything to blame except that Thailand is old hat at the moment that can spin and spin but while the Thai baht is strong tourists will go elsewhere