Bangkok, 29 June 2026, 14.30 Hrs. GMT+7 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) advises visitors that drone operations are now permitted in most areas of Thailand, provided operators are properly registered and comply with Thai aviation rules.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued Notice No. 16 on drone operations in areas that may affect national security during the Thai–Cambodian border situation. The notice, effective from 26 June 2026 until further notice, further relaxes special drone restrictions following continued assessment with national security agencies.

For visitors, this means drone use is generally possible in most destinations nationwide, but only after proper registration, insurance, and flight approval. Restrictions remain in selected border districts where security-related measures are still required.

Drone operations remain prohibited in controlled districts in seven border provinces, except where specifically approved by CAAT for limited purposes.

Controlled districts where drone flights remain restricted

– Ubon Ratchathani: Khemarat, Na Tan, Pho Sai, Si Mueang Mai, Khong Chiam, Sirindhorn, Buntharik, Na Chaluai, and Nam Yuen Districts– Si Sa Ket: Phu Sing, Khun Han, and Kantharalak Districts– Surin: Phanom Dong Rak, Kap Choeng, Sangkha, and Bua Chet Districts– Buri Ram: Lahan Sai and Ban Kruat Districts– Sa Kaeo: Khlong Hat, Aranyaprathet, Khok Sung, and Ta Phraya Districts– Chanthaburi: Mueang Chanthaburi, Soi Dao, and Pong Nam Ron Districts– Trat: Mueang Trat, Khlong Yai, and Bo Rai Districts

In these controlled districts, CAAT may consider specific permission for drone operations related to agriculture, disaster prevention and relief, urgent action to prevent damage to life or property, or authorised law-enforcement duties by government agencies. Such operations must also receive approval from the area owner or responsible local authority and comply with all conditions set by CAAT.

Requirements for visitors operating drones

Visitors who wish to fly a drone in Thailand must ensure that both the drone and operator are properly registered and authorised under Thai law before any flight. Requirements include operator registration, aircraft registration stating the purpose of use, compulsory insurance, and flight approval through the UAS Portal before each operation.

Flight details, including the area, date, time, and purpose, must be submitted to CAAT at least three days in advance through the UAS Portal: uasportal.caat.or.th. Operators must also notify the Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police Bureau, by email at antidrone.police@gmail.com before each approved flight.

Drone flights must comply with all conditions stated in the CAAT approval and other applicable Thai drone regulations. Visitors should also check airport-related rules, national park requirements, local restrictions, and any site-specific conditions before flying.

In the controlled districts listed above, recreational or tourism-related drone flights are not generally permitted unless specifically authorised by CAAT and the relevant area owner or responsible agency.

Government agency operations

Military, police, customs, agriculture, natural resources and environment, and intelligence agencies may operate drones under their legal mandate. Where required, government agencies operating in controlled areas must notify CAAT, the Anti-Drone Centre, local security units, and relevant area owners or responsible authorities in advance.

Reporting violations

Violations are punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 40,000 Baht, or both. Authorised military or security agencies may also take enforcement action against drones that violate the notice, including the use of anti-drone systems where necessary.

Members of the public may report unlawful drone activity by providing the date, time, location, drone description, and any available photos or videos to one of the following channels:

– CAAT – Unmanned Aircraft Standards and Technology DivisionTel: +66 (0) 2568 8851 | Email: uas_us@caat.or.th

– Anti-Drone Centre, Metropolitan Police BureauTel: +66 (0) 2126 7846 | Email: antidrone.police@gmail.com

– Local security units, including the nearest police station, military base, or relevant authority

CAAT continues to monitor the situation with national security agencies to ensure that drone regulation remains appropriate, while balancing public and business use with national security and safety requirements. Visitors planning to use drones in Thailand are advised to check the latest CAAT guidance before each flight and strictly follow all approval conditions.

Essential Drone Registration and Flight Rules in Thailand

As drone technology becomes more advanced and accessible, many travellers bring drones to capture aerial views of their destinations. With its natural beauty and cultural landmarks, Thailand is a prime location for drone photography. However, flying a drone in Thailand is governed by strict legal requirements.

All drones—officially classified as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles—must be registered and operated in full compliance with national aviation regulations. Violations may result in fines, imprisonment, or confiscation of equipment.

This guide outlines the key procedures and legal obligations for registering and flying drones lawfully in Thailand.

Import and Registration Requirements

Drones may be brought into Thailand but cannot be operated legally until registered with both the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).

The NBTC handles drone ownership and radio frequency registration via anyregis.nbtc.go.th. CAAT manages registration for both the drone and its operator and issues the required drone pilot certificate via the UAS Portal: uasportal.caat.or.th.

Registration with a single agency alone is insufficient. Both NBTC and CAAT registration are mandatory for the legal operation of drones.

Which Drones Require Registration

All drones must be registered with NBTC, regardless of weight or use.

CAAT registration is additionally required for drones equipped with cameras or recording devices, drones weighing over two kilograms but under twenty-five kilograms, and all drones exceeding twenty-five kilograms. The latter must also receive written approval from the Minister of Transport.

Pre-Flight Procedures and Certification

Before operating a drone in Thailand, operators are encouraged to review applicable regulations and complete CAAT’s online knowledge test through the UAS Portal. Though optional in some cases, the test ensures familiarity with Thai airspace rules.

Drones must be insured with third-party liability coverage of at least one million Thai Baht. Insurance may be arranged locally or abroad.

Upon arrival in Thailand, a Thai SIM card is required to initiate registration via the UAS Portal. The process includes account creation, identity verification via a one-time password, and submission of documents for both drone and operator registration.

To obtain a drone pilot certificate, operators must pass an online exam. If the exam is not passed, it may be retaken after a 24-hour waiting period. Once approved, the certificate remains valid for two years. A registration number will be issued and must be visibly displayed on the drone. Labels must use a font size of at least 3 mm for drones weighing less than 25 kg, and at least 25 mm for those weighing more than 25 kg.

Rules for Flying Drones in Thailand

Drone operation is regulated by CAAT’s safety and airspace guidelines. Drones must not endanger life, property, or public peace. Flights over urban areas, gatherings, or near government buildings, hospitals, military zones, or restricted areas (as designated in the Aeronautical Information Publication – Thailand) are prohibited unless authorised. Takeoff and landing zones must be unobstructed.

Flights are permitted only during daylight hours, in clear weather, and within visual line of sight. The use of first-person view or onboard cameras alone for navigation is not permitted. Flying into or near cloud cover is prohibited.

Drones may not operate within nine kilometres of an airport or temporary airfield without prior approval. The transport of hazardous materials, including laser devices, is strictly forbidden.

Minimum safe distances must be maintained: 30 metres for drones weighing under 2 kilograms and 50 metres for drones weighing between 2 and 25 kilograms.

Any drone-related incident must be reported immediately to CAAT via phone at +66 2 568 8851 or email at uav@caat.or.th. Special operations—such as night flights, flights above 90 metres, or entry into restricted zones—require prior written approval via uas_u@caat.or.th.

Contact Information

National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC)For drone ownership and radio frequency registrationAddress: 87 Phaholyothin Soi 8, Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, ThailandPhone: +66 2 670 8888Call Center: 1200 (within Thailand)Website: www.nbtc.go.thDrone Registration Portal: https://anyregis.nbtc.go.th

Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT)For drone and pilot registration and flight regulation complianceAddress: 222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Soi 28, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, ThailandPhone: +66 2 568 8851Email: uav@caat.or.thFor special operations: uas_u@caat.or.thWebsite: www.caat.or.thDrone Registration Portal: https://uasportal.caat.or.th

The post Flying a Drone in Thailand – Updated Guide for Tourists appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 29 June 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) organised the Amazing Thailand Roadshow to South Africa 2026 from 22 to 26 June across Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, with Emirates as key airline partner. The activity supported TAT’s quality-led long-haul market strategy by connecting Thai tourism sellers with South African travel companies, expanding trade networks, presenting updated tourism products, and stimulating demand for meaningful travel to Thailand.

The roadshow brought together 20 Thai tourism sellers for tabletop sales sessions, market briefings, product presentations, business matching, and networking activities. It aimed to create at least 1,800 business appointments, support new partnerships, and strengthen Thailand’s visibility among South African travel professionals as the market continues to show positive recovery and strong interest in long-haul travel.

Mrs. Chiravadee Khunsub, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa, said, “South Africa is one of Thailand’s most valued long-haul markets in Africa, with travellers who show loyalty, curiosity, and strong interest in journeys combining beaches, city life, nature, culture, wellness, cuisine, and premium lifestyle experiences. Through this roadshow, TAT is deepening cooperation with South African travel partners, helping Thai sellers respond more closely to market demand, and working with Emirates to reinforce connectivity. These efforts align with TAT’s Value over Volume strategy and the newest global campaign, Unforgettable Experiences — Healing is the New Luxury, positioning Thailand as a destination for restorative, meaningful, and memorable travel.”

The Johannesburg session, held on 22 June at the NH Hotel Johannesburg, opened the programme with seller registration and a seller briefing, then welcomed buyers for Thailand product updates, an Emirates product presentation, and business matching. The session was attended by Mr. Kittipod Hongsombud, Minister, Royal Thai Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, reflecting broader support for Thailand’s tourism engagement in the market.

The programme continued in Durban on 24 June at The Capital Pearls Durban and concludes in Cape Town on 26 June at InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town by IHG. Across all three cities, South African travel professionals received updated destination information, product knowledge, and direct access to Thai sellers, while networking activities created further opportunities for business development and future sales cooperation.

The 20 participating Thai sellers represented a broad mix of destinations and products. Phuket accounted for half of the delegation, followed by Bangkok, while Krabi, Hua Hin, Khao Sok, Ko Samui, and Pattaya were also represented. By business category, hotels and resorts formed the largest group, supported by destination management companies and other tourism service providers.

Emirates’ participation strengthened the roadshow’s connectivity message, highlighting access between South Africa and Thailand via major global hubs. The partnership supported TAT’s efforts to bring Thai tourism products closer to South African travellers and encourage stronger travel conversion from one of Africa’s leading outbound markets.

South Africa remains Thailand’s largest source market in Sub-Saharan Africa. In 2025, Thailand welcomed 72,418 South African visitors, up 6.61% year-on-year, while arrivals from Africa reached 196,984, up 17.96%. Early 2026 figures also showed continued momentum, with 8,912 arrivals from South Africa from 1 January to 28 February, up 4.72% year-on-year.

South African travellers continue to show strong interest in Thailand’s beaches, city experiences, cuisine, cultural attractions, wellness, nature, shopping, and multi-destination itineraries. The Amazing Thailand Roadshow to South Africa 2026 responds to these travel patterns by equipping local trade partners with updated products and deeper market knowledge, while supporting TAT’s quality-led direction for long-haul growth.

The post Amazing Thailand Roadshow to South Africa 2026 deepens tourism trade ties appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Experience Thailand’s rich cultural diversity through a vibrant lineup of festivals and community celebrations this July. Witness the spectacular Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, enjoy the traditional sounds of Mor Lam “Roi Kaen Sara Sin”, join the family-friendly fun at Samui Story Fun Fest, discover local traditions at the Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat Worship Festival 2026, and celebrate southern culture at Hroi Raeng FEST 2026. Alongside many other events nationwide, these festivities offer unique opportunities to experience Thailand’s rich heritage, creativity, and community spirit.

Mor Lam “Roi Kaen Sara Sin”

30 June – 2 July 2026Phikun Thong Auditorium, Kalasin College of Dramatic ArtsMueang District, Kalasin

Highlights:A cultural event dedicated to preserving and passing on the wisdom of traditional Mor Lam folk performance to younger generations through workshops, live performances, discussions, and demonstrations by renowned Isan artists and performers.

Bangsaen Grand Prix 2026

1 – 5 July 2026Bangsaen Beach RoadChon Buri

Highlights:Thailand’s premier beachfront street racing event returns for its 20th anniversary, combining world-class motorsport action with the scenic atmosphere of Bangsaen Beach. Visitors can enjoy thrilling races, special activities, and a unique seaside racing experience throughout the five-day festival.

Nakhon Spirit Craft 2026

2 – 5 July 2026Wat Wang Tawan Tok, Mueang DistrictNakhon Si Thammarat

Highlights:A contemporary craft and cultural festival celebrating the living heritage of Nakhon Si Thammarat through design, craftsmanship, food, music, and sustainable tourism under the theme “Living x Timeless Craft.” Held alongside Creative Nakhon #7, the event showcases how traditional wisdom continues to inspire modern lifestyles.

Sawankhalok Chinese Opera Festival 2026

3 – 12 July 2026Chao Pho Pung Thao Kong Shrine, Sawankhalok DistrictSukhothai

Highlights:A lively cultural festival featuring traditional Chinese opera performances, lion dances, parades, local food, shopping stalls, and vibrant nighttime festivities celebrating the rich Thai-Chinese heritage of Sawankhalok.

Rinma Summer Beach 2026

4 July 2026Sea Sand Sun Hua Hin Resort, Cha-am DistrictPhetchaburi

Highlights:A lively beachfront music festival featuring more than 10 artists, energetic performances, and a fun summer atmosphere by the sea along the Cha-am–Hua Hin coastline.

Samui Story Fun Fest

4 – 5 July 2026Chaweng Square, Central Samui, Ko SamuiSurat Thani

Highlights:Discover more than 45 selected local vendors from across Ko Samui, offering delicious local cuisine and unique products, while enjoying a vibrant programme of family-friendly activities, including traditional fairground games, student performances, and a fancy-dress competition.

Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat Worship Festival 2026

7 – 13 July 2026Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat, Mekong Riverfront, Mueang DistrictNakhon Phanom

Highlights:One of Northeastern Thailand’s most significant spiritual and cultural celebrations, honouring Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat with sacred worship ceremonies, traditional dance performances, cultural showcases, OTOP markets, local culinary experiences, and nightly folk entertainment along the Mekong River.

Thailand Diecast Expo 2026

10 – 12 July 2026ICONSIAM Hall, 7th Floor, ICONSIAMBangkok

Highlights:A major diecast and collectables expo that brings together model car brands, toy collectors, hobby enthusiasts, and creative communities, featuring exhibitions, activities, rare collectables, and interactive experiences for all generations.

Mae La Noi Craft Camp 2026

11 July 2026Herntai Resort, Mae La Noi DistrictMae Hong Son

Highlights:A unique rainy-season music and camping festival set amid the breathtaking terraced rice fields of Mae La Noi, celebrating the beauty of Mae Hong Son’s Green Season through live music, local culture, sustainable tourism, and immersive outdoor experiences.

Isan Creative Festival 2026

11 – 19 July 2026TCDC Khon Kaen, Central Khon Kaen Campus, Si Chan Creative District, KICE Khon Kaen International Convention and Exhibition Centre, and other locations throughout the Northeast.

Highlights:A major creative festival showcasing the modern identity of Northeastern Thailand through exhibitions, workshops, creative markets, business platforms, performances, and over 200 programs celebrating Isan culture, design, innovation, and local talent.

Thailand Magic Arts Festival

18 – 19 July 2026Mr. FOX LIVE HOUSEBangkok

Highlights:Thailand’s largest magic festival featuring international and Thai magicians, gala performances, magic competitions, lectures, interactive exhibitions, and networking activities celebrating the creativity and evolution of modern magic arts.

Pa Kad Chiang Rai 2026

24 July – 2 August 2026Kad Luang Chiang RaiChiang Rai

Highlights:A vibrant community arts festival transforming Chiang Rai’s iconic market into a creative playground with art installations, fashion shows, music competitions, cultural parades, and interactive activities celebrating local creativity and everyday life.

Hroi Raeng FEST

25 – 26 July 2026Bovorn Beach, Tha Sala DistrictNakhon Si Thammarat

Highlights:A vibrant seaside festival celebrating the flavours, culture, and creativity of southern Thailand with live music, local cuisine, craft markets, beach activities, international kite displays, fire shows, and spectacular fireworks by the sea.

Tak Bat Dok Mai Khao Phansa 2026

27 – 30 July 2026Wat Phra Phutthabat RatchaworamahawihanSaraburi

Highlights:One of Thailand’s most distinctive Buddhist traditions, held exclusively in Saraburi, where devotees offer the seasonal Khao Phansa flower to monks at the beginning of Buddhist Lent. The festival combines deep religious devotion, cultural heritage, and the Royal Candle Offering Ceremony in a unique celebration found nowhere else in the world.

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival 2026

28 – 30 July 2026Thung Si MueangUbon Ratchathani

Highlights:One of Thailand’s most spectacular Buddhist festivals, featuring magnificent candle parades, intricate wax carvings, traditional dance processions, and dazzling light-and-sound performances celebrating the beginning of Buddhist Lent in northeastern Thailand.

The post July 2026 Event and Calendar appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 23 June 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and AirAsia MOVE, one of Asia’s leading online travel agencies, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under “TAT x MOVE: Seamless Journey, Amazing Thailand” to expand digital travel promotion, connect traveller insights with targeted campaigns, and stimulate travel to and across Thailand.

The MOU covers co-branded campaigns, content promotion, and joint marketing initiatives across TAT’s channels and the AirAsia MOVE platform. The three-year partnership aims to strengthen Thailand’s position as a world-class tourism destination and apply traveller insights from key markets across Asia and beyond to more focused destination marketing.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Digital platforms are reshaping how travellers discover, plan, and experience destinations. Through AirAsia MOVE’s regional reach and traveller insights, TAT can connect online inspiration with real travel choices, support major and emerging destinations, and create stronger opportunities for local tourism businesses nationwide. This collaboration advances the Platform Economy under the Amazing 5 Economy framework, while reinforcing TAT’s direction to promote UNESCO Creative Cities, green destinations, and tourism growth that delivers wider value across the country.”

AirAsia MOVE will activate its regional platform and more than 17 million monthly active users to raise awareness of Thai destinations, spotlighting Thailand’s ‘Five Must-Do’ experiences. The partnership will connect travel interest with local tourism operators, broaden access to emerging destinations, and support wider distribution of visitor spending nationwide.

Ms. Nadia Omer, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia MOVE, said, “This partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand is a pivotal step in advancing regional travel. By actively supporting the ‘Platform Economy’ pillar of the Amazing 5 Economy framework, AirAsia MOVE is uniquely positioned to accelerate this growth. Over the next three years, we will leverage our expansive ecosystem and data-driven insights to transform traveller aspiration into action, directly funnelling demand to local operators, empowering communities, and fostering sustainable economic growth across Thailand.”

The collaboration supports TAT’s strategic move to convert travel interest into visits, broaden visitor flows across destinations, and create wider value for tourism businesses nationwide.

In support of the collaboration, AirAsia MOVE shared seven travel trends shaping Thailand tourism in the first half of 2026, based on traveller behaviour and booking data across its regional travel ecosystem. Asia remained the primary driver of inbound travel, with Malaysia, India, China, and Indonesia continuing as top source markets for Thailand.

Younger travellers continued to influence travel patterns, with the 30–39 age group remaining among the largest traveller segments. These travellers seek more personalised and meaningful experiences, including adventure, local culture, culinary discovery, and immersive activities. Free Independent Travel also remained strong, with solo travellers accounting for 59.57% of all bookings.

India emerged as a star market, with family and large-group travellers making up more than 43% of Indian visitors, many staying for seven to 15 days. Travellers from India also recorded the highest revenue per booking on the platform, with demand increasingly coming from secondary cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, and Ahmedabad.

Indonesia demonstrated strong loyalty and meaningful travel opportunities, with couple travellers accounting for 24.71% of Indonesian bookings and 73.4% of seats sold coming from AirAsia Members. The trend points to opportunities for destinations such as Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Samui to attract Indonesian travellers seeking authentic local experiences, nature, wellness, and memorable getaways.

The United States remained an important long-haul source market, with travellers aged 50 and above accounting for 32% of US visitors on the platform. With a 77% round-trip booking rate, these travellers tended to stay longer, spend more, and use Thailand as a gateway to Southeast Asia. East Asian travellers from China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan continued to show strong spending power, with more than 70% staying in Thailand for up to five days, creating opportunities for premium short breaks, city escapes, festivals, and event-driven tourism.

These insights support TAT’s efforts to sharpen product promotion, respond to changing traveller behaviour, and connect more visitors with meaningful travel experiences across Thailand.

The post Tourism Authority of Thailand and AirAsia MOVE partner to boost travel to and across Thailand appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni has acknowledged that captain Lionel Messi may not be at full fitness when joining the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Argentina, the defending champions from the 2022 World Cup, will compete in the 2026 tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in Group F alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. While Argentina has not yet announced their 26-man squad for the World Cup defense, the main concern centers on Messi, the team's star striker, who recently suffered an injury while playing for Inter Miami, prompting questions about his readiness for the tournament. Scaloni has now provided an update on Messi's condition, acknowledging the star player may not be at 100 percent for defending the world championship. "The initial reports aren't entirely bad. Right now, we need to wait and see how his condition improves, pending further medical tests to confirm the medical findings," Scaloni said. "We all hope Messi will join the team at full fitness, but that's not reality. It's not just him either. Many players are still not fully recovered from injuries. Our main goal right now is to rehabilitate their bodies to ensure they go to the World Cup in the best possible physical condition."