Thailand and UAE relations set for major expansion in trade, tourism, innovation, and investment in 2026
Relations between Thailand and the United Arab Emirates are expected to enter a new phase of growth in 2026, with both countries strengthening cooperation across trade, tourism, technology, renewable energy, and investment sectors.
Speaking in an exclusive interview in Abu Dhabi, H.E. Bolbongse Vangphaen, Ambassador of Thailand to the UAE, said bilateral relations remain stable, resilient, and steadily expanding, supported by growing economic collaboration and stronger people-to-people ties.
According to the Ambassador, bilateral trade between Thailand and the UAE has reached approximately US$20–25 billion, recording annual growth of around 8–12 percent.
He noted that both countries are increasingly aligning strategic priorities in sectors such as renewable energy, smart agriculture, food security, wellness, hospitality, and advanced technologies.
Growing investment opportunities
Thailand is positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and advanced industries, creating new opportunities for UAE investors in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies.
Among the major projects highlighted was a planned data centre investment by DAMAC Group in Thailand, with the first phase expected to become operational later this year.
Ambassador Vangphaen described the project as an example of future-focused investments that support Thailand’s long-term economic strategy.
He also introduced Thailand’s new industrial roadmap under the “5I Strategy”, which focuses on:
- Intelligent Industry
- Industrial Infrastructure Reform
- Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
- Innovation and Creativity
- International Alliances and Networks
The Ambassador added that Thailand’s strategic location in Southeast Asia complements the UAE’s position as a global gateway connecting East and West, making both nations strong partners in logistics, finance, trade, and manufacturing.
Tourism remains a key pillar
Tourism continues to be one of the strongest areas of cooperation between the two countries, with approximately 160,000 to 170,000 travellers from the UAE visiting Thailand annually.
Ambassador Vangphaen said the number is expected to continue growing in 2026, adding that many Emiratis consider Thailand their “second home” due to regular visits.
Air connectivity between the UAE and Thailand has also expanded significantly, with more than 15 daily flights operating between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and major Thai destinations including:
- Bangkok
- Phuket
- Krabi
- Chiang Mai
Additional direct routes are expected to launch in the near future, further supporting tourism and business travel.
Focus on eco-tourism and wellness travel
Thailand is increasingly promoting secondary tourism destinations and eco-tourism experiences beyond traditional hotspots such as Bangkok and Phuket.
The Ambassador highlighted destinations including:
- Khao Yai
- Kanchanaburi
- Chanthaburi
- Trat
- Chiang Mai
These destinations are being promoted for their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic travel experiences.
Thailand is also investing heavily in medical tourism, wellness experiences, sports tourism, and premium hospitality offerings as part of a strategy to attract higher-value travellers.
According to Ambassador Vangphaen, tourism currently contributes between 12–20 percent of Thailand’s approximately US$500 billion GDP.
Thai products promotion launched in UAE
To strengthen commercial and cultural ties, the Thai Trade Center in Dubai has launched a promotional campaign in partnership with UAE supermarket chains including Choithrams and Al Maya.
The campaign aims to showcase authentic Thai fruits, food products, and consumer brands to UAE residents through the end of May.
Concluding the interview, Ambassador Vangphaen reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the UAE and the wider Gulf region across tourism, innovation, investment, and cultural exchange.
