TAT, dnata sign new agreement to boost tourism to Thailand

DUBAI: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and dnata Travel Group, a global leader in travel services, have signed a strategic partnership agreement with the aim of enhancing tourism to Thailand.

The agreement was formalised on Monday at the Thailand Pavilion during the Arabian Travel Market 2024.

The partnership seeks to leverage dnata’s extensive global network, particularly in the GCC region, to drive increased tourist arrivals from the Middle East to Thailand. By focusing on key niche markets and promoting quality leisure destinations within the kingdom, both TAT and dnata aim to enhance Thailand’s appeal and attract discerning travellers.

Under the strategic partnership agreement, TAT and dnata will collaborate on a series of joint promotions tailored to elevate Thailand’s tourism profile across the GCC countries, including the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. These promotions will target niche tourism segments such as sports, luxury, honeymoon, and wellness, offering tailored experiences to travellers seeking unique and memorable vacations.

The agreement was signed by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and Mr. John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group, at a ceremony held at the Thailand Pavilion, ATM 2024.

Also present were Mr. Rashid Al Awadhi, Senior Vice President – Middle East and India at the dnata Travel Group, Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing, and Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, along with other officials from both organisations.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, stated, “The Tourism Authority of Thailand is pleased to collaborate with the dnata Travel Group. Through this agreement, our goal is to collectively implement the most effective strategies and practices to expand Thailand’s marketing presence and establish it as a quality leisure destination. This initiative emphasises enhancing Thailand’s reputation as a unique leisure destination that offers unparalleled quality and value. We aim to achieve a balance between tourism growth and its social and environmental implications by crafting value-added experiences and ensuring harmony between revenue generation, community engagement, and environmental conservation.”

Mr. John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group, said: “The focus on high-value niche markets aligns with dnata’s strategy to attract visitors who seek premium experiences and are willing to invest in unique products and services. I believe that the partnership between TAT and dnata Travel Group marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance tourism to Thailand and underscores the commitment of both organisations to deliver exceptional travel experiences to visitors from the Middle East and beyond.”