Listen to this articlePhuket has stepped up efforts to expand high-quality tourism markets and strengthen international ties, with a major roadshow in the Middle East and the official opening of a Kazakhstan consulate in the province. Anupap Vejvanichsanong, deputy chief of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO), said the PAO supported the initiative and led a team of 30 tourism operators joining the "Phuket Roadshow to Middle East 2026", held from Jan 11–15 across Oman, Kuwait and Jordan. He said marketing support was provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Dubai office, which helped connect Phuket businesses with Middle Eastern travel networks to foster long-term cooperation. The programme opened in Muscat, Oman, on Jan 11, where Thailand's ambassador highlighted the growing popularity of Phuket among Omani travellers. Separately, Phuket governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn presided over the official opening of the Republic of Kazakhstan's consulate in Phuket on Jan 22.

Source: Bangkok Post February 01, 2026 22:52 UTC