“It has been forecast that Muslim tourists will spend almost USD200 billion globally by 2020, and Thailand is an extremely popular destination for this fast-growing market. […]

We recognise the potential of this market and will increase our sales and marketing efforts in the [MENA] region this year, especially in terms of online marketing,” attested Olivier Berrivin, managing director, international operations, Asia, Best Western International, revealing that the company plans to expand its range of partnerships with MENA partners.

Strengthening relations with the region’s travel trade is also a priority for Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which kick-started the year with a trip in Bangkok and Pattaya for 30 Iranian travel agents and social media influencers.

“The fam trip forms part of TAT’s plans to promote Thailand as a Muslim-friendly destination to the Iranian market with highlights on luxury, family and couples’ activities,” reaffirmed Chalermsak Suranant, director, Dubai and Middle East office, TAT.

Iran, like the rest of the region, represents an important source market for the Kingdom as between January – November 2015, the volume of arrivals from the country rose 30 percent to reach 81,404.

To further boost the destination’s credentials as a Muslim-friendly destination, Halal Science Centre, together with its partners, hosted the annual Thailand Halal Assembly in Bangkok at the end of 2015.

Yuthasak Supasorn, governor, TAT, said on the occasion, “Thailand welcomes thousands of Muslim tourists from all over the world every year. These numbers will grow further […] hence, it is very important for Thailand to have the necessary products and services catering to the Muslim market.”