Number of foreign tourists visiting Thailand from 2015 to 2024

the number of international tourist arrivals in Thailand

Number of foreign tourists arrivals in Thailand from 2015 to 2024

This is an article showing the number of international tourist arrivals in Thailand from 2015 to 2024 (first half of the year). It discusses how the number of tourist arrivals was greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, there were only 6.7 million tourist arrivals and 0.43 million tourist arrivals respectively, compared to 39.9 million in 2019. The Thai government has since taken steps to encourage tourism, such as waiving visas for citizens of China and India.

Thailand’s Tourism Industry: A Rollercoaster Ride

The number of international tourist arrivals in Thailand experienced a dramatic rollercoaster from 2015 to 2024. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the country enjoyed a steady increase in tourist numbers, peaking at a record high of 39.9 million visitors in 2019. Thailand had solidified its position as a global tourism hotspot, renowned for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities.

However, the pandemic in 2020 brought the industry to a near standstill. Strict travel restrictions and border closures led to a catastrophic decline in tourist arrivals, plummeting to a mere 6.7 million for the entire year. The following year, 2021, witnessed an even more devastating impact with only 0.43 million arrivals, highlighting the unprecedented challenges faced by the tourism sector.

In response to the crisis, the Thai government implemented a series of measures to revive the industry. This included easing travel restrictions, expanding vaccination programs, and offering incentives to international visitors, such as visa waivers for key markets like China and India. These efforts have gradually yielded positive results, with a noticeable uptick in tourist numbers since 2022.

As of the first half of 2024, Thailand has made significant strides in recovering its tourism sector. While still below pre-pandemic levels, the country has welcomed a substantial number of visitors, demonstrating a strong rebound and renewed optimism for the future.

Rent Connected is one of the companies related to thailand tourism industry directly and faces the challenges over the years. if you are visiting Thailand and looking for a car rental to visit around Thailand, you can book at rentconnected.com/en