International Arrivals to Bangkok Grow 0.5% YoY

Thailand’s tourism economy has plateaued, weighed down by cross-border tensions with Cambodia, a 35% decline in Chinese arrivals, and cautious domestic consumer sentiment. International arrivals through Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports totaled 15.47 million in the first half of 2025, reflecting 0.5% growth compared to the same period in 2024.

Source: Airports of Thailand

In 2025, January registered the highest international monthly arrivals, supported by year-end holiday travel and Thailand’s peak cool, dry season. The month recorded 3.15 million international arrivals, representing a 19% year-on-year increase.

However, the months following January recorded performance comparable to, though marginally below, 2024 levels. This stabilization in tourism arrivals has been accompanied by lower occupancy and shorter booking lead times, prompting hotel operators to reduce room rates in order to sustain performance.

With year-to-date growth limited, attention now turns to the upcoming peak season. As the low season ends, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators are watching forward bookings closely, with November, December, and January set to determine whether tourism gains renewed momentum or remains at 2024 levels.