BANGKOK - Increased aviation access and strong promotions by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in the Arab Gulf states are set to pave the way for increased visitor arrivals from the Middle East this year.
The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2004 held in Dubai from May 4-7, saw the successful participation of 39 Thai hotels, tour operators and travel agents, Department of Export Promotion, Thailand Elite Card and the Zoological Organisation of Thailand.
Although visitor arrivals from the Middle East were down last year due to the SARS crisis and the war in Iraq, there are grounds for optimism that they will rise steadily again this year, according to TAT deputy governor for international markets, Phornsiri Manoharn.
“While we did receive some inquiries about the situation in South Thailand, TAT officials at the mart were able to clarify matters and explain the efforts being made by the Royal Thai Government to resolve it peacefully,” Phornsiri said.
The 150 sqm Thailand stand was one of the largest amongst the Asia/Pacific participants and attracted an estimated 1,600 buyers and visitors throughout the four days.
This year, TAT published the first tourist brochure in Arabic to reach a wider audience. The colourful brochure features products and services that are popular and essential for Arab visitors like availability of Halal food, mosques, spas, medical and health centres as well as ecotourism activities.