Latest news with #ThapaneeKiatphaibool
Trade Arabia
30-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Etihad signs MoC with Tourism Authority of Thailand
Etihad Airways signs a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between Thailand and the national airline of the UAE, at Arabian Travel Market 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: "Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences." Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.'
Mid East Info
29-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
TAT promotes Thailand as a Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Strategic partnerships with GCC airlines and tailored offerings aim to attract 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 2025 : The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting Thailand's position as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, aligning with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative. At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with key GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to enhance connectivity and offer co-branded campaigns that showcase Thailand's wellness and luxury experiences. These initiatives aim to help TAT reach its 2025 target of over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: 'Thailand is proud to offer an inclusive, seamless travel experience for Muslim travellers. We now have an extensive network of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities at major airports and shopping centres, and luxury accommodations with private and gender-segregated amenities. We believe these features make Thailand a compelling choice for the Muslim travel market.' Tailored travel packages have been developed for families, honeymooners, and wellness seekers from the GCC region. These curated experiences focus on privacy, cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation – designed in line with the values and expectations of Muslim travellers. Thailand welcomed over 956,000 visitors from the MEA region in 2024, a 25.6% increase from the previous year. The country remains a top destination among high-spending travellers from the Middle East who seek longer stays and personalised itineraries. As part of its broader campaign, TAT is showcasing the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 at ATM. The nationwide celebration features year-round festivals, global sporting events, and exclusive travel privileges. Key focus areas include sports tourism, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and luxury—each offering immersive and personalised experiences that reflect Thailand's commitment to sustainable, creative, and innovative tourism. The campaign also highlights Thailand's '5 Must-Do Experiences': Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See—inviting travellers to delve deeper into the country's cultural richness beyond the typical tourist routes. Ms Kiatphaibool added: 'The Middle East is familiar with our iconic offerings, but we're excited to present new perspectives, including our Thai Craft Destinations concept and Hidden Gem Cities. These showcase authentic local craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine – helping travellers discover the true essence of Thailand.' TAT's efforts are underpinned by Thailand's sustainable tourism strategy, which follows the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. This approach supports low-impact travel, community engagement, and cultural preservation, reinforcing Thailand's role as a leader in responsible tourism. Following ATM, a delegation of Thai representatives will conduct roadshows in Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha from 4–7 May, followed by visits to Casablanca and Amman. These initiatives aim to strengthen B2B engagement and solidify Thailand's presence in the GCC market.
Khaleej Times
29-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Etihad Airways signs memorandum of cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand
Etihad Airways on Tuesday signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between the Southeast Asian nation and the national airline of the UAE at Arabian Travel Market 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer of Etihad Airways, said: 'Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences.' Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.' Etihad announced last year the addition of two new destinations in Thailand, among the 16 new routes the airline will be launching this year. Operations to Krabi and Chiang Mai will begin in October and November respectively, and will strengthen the airline's presence in the market, alongside existing routes to Bangkok and Phuket. Etihad's extensive global network and four gateways in Thailand make it easy for leisure travellers to fly directly into their favourite holiday destinations in Thailand, supporting tourism in the market on a global scale. Image 1: From left to right: Image 2: From left to right: Etihad Airways cabin crew, Dr Nadia Bastaki Chief People & Corporate Affairs Officer Etihad Airways, Thapanee Kiatphaibool Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Antonoaldo Neves Chief Executive Officer Etihad Airways, H.E. Mr. SorayutChasombat Ambassador of Thailand to the UAE, and Etihad Airways cabin crew.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Etihad Airways signs cooperation agreement with Tourism Authority of Thailand
Etihad Airways signs a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to strengthen the relationship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. The agreement aims to promote tourism to Thailand through Etihad's extensive global network. Aligning with Etihad's mission to deliver extraordinary travel experiences, the MoC will see both organisations advocating high-quality travel experiences in Thailand through collaborative activities and promotion. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, "Thailand is a very important market for Etihad, this is demonstrated by our continued expansion into the market with two new destinations this year, and further by this Memorandum of Cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to drive leisure travel. This agreement will help further strengthen our relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand and Etihad's position in the market, reinforcing our commitment to deliver extraordinary travel experiences." Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said, 'Our partnership with Etihad marks a significant milestone in advancing Thailand's position as a preferred global destination. With Etihad's extensive network and world-class service, we are confident that this collaboration will inspire more travellers to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wellness offerings of Thailand. Together, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences and reinforce Thailand's appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors.' Etihad announced last year the addition of two new destinations in Thailand, among the 16 new routes the airline will be launching this year. Operations to Krabi and Chiang Mai will begin in October and November respectively, and will strengthen the airline's presence in the market, alongside existing routes to Bangkok and Phuket.
Gulf News
29-04-2025
- Gulf News
Five key changes UAE residents should prepare for in May
Dubai: As May 2025 approaches, residents and travellers in the UAE can expect several important changes that will impact daily commutes, international travel, digital services, and environmental regulations. From a new intercity bus route between Dubai and Sharjah to the seasonal closure of Global Village and the rollout of a national climate law, here are the top updates to watch out for next month. 1. New Dubai–Sharjah bus route to improve commuting Starting May 2, 2025, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will launch a new intercity bus route, E308, to enhance connectivity between Dubai and Sharjah. The service will operate between Stadium Bus Station in Dubai and Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah, with a one-way fare of Dh12. Alongside the new route, RTA is implementing several modifications to improve efficiency and passenger convenience across the intercity network. Meanwhile, Ajman's public transport authority will also introduce a new route beginning May 1, connecting Al Musalla Bus Station in Ajman to Al Ain Bus Station, further expanding inter-emirate travel options. 2. Global Village to close for the summer on May 11 Global Village, one of the UAE's most popular outdoor family attractions, will wrap up its 29th season on May 11 as part of its annual summer closure. To mark the end of the season, Global Village is offering free entry to children under 12, a departure from the usual policy, which limits free access to children under three, seniors above 65, and people of determination. First launched in 1997 as a modest cultural fair, Global Village has grown into a multicultural destination, showcasing over 90 cultures, 30 pavilions, and more than 175 rides and attractions. 3. Thailand introduces mandatory digital arrival card Travellers planning trips to Thailand should take note, from May 1, 2025, all foreign visitors will be required to submit a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival, replacing the long-standing paper-based TM.6 form. The electronic form must be completed in advance and includes personal and travel details. It applies to all ports of entry - air, land, and sea and can be submitted up to three days prior to travel. Authorities say the new system is part of broader efforts to enhance border control, tackle human trafficking, and modernise tourism infrastructure. The change was confirmed during the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai by Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. 4. WhatsApp will stop working on older iPhones From May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be supported on iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. The move is part of a continued push to improve user security and phase out support for outdated devices that no longer receive Apple's security updates. The following models will be affected: iPhone 5s iPhone 6 iPhone 6 Plus These devices have already been classified as 'obsolete' by Apple, meaning official hardware servicing and parts are no longer available. 5. UAE to enforce new Climate Change Law A new climate change law will come into effect in the UAE on May 30, 2025, requiring businesses to track, measure, and manage their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as part of the country's push towards carbon neutrality. The law supports national sustainability goals by encouraging innovation, research, and technological advancement. It also aims to strengthen the private sector's contribution to environmental efforts, enhance capacity building, and promote international collaboration on climate data and solutions.
