Etihad Launches First Direct Abu Dhabi–Krabi Flight, Strengthening Thailand–Middle East Tourism Links
Bangkok, October 10, 2025 — Thailand has strengthened its tourism and air connectivity with the Middle East as Etihad Airways inaugurated its first direct flight from Abu Dhabi to Krabi on October 9, 2025. The new service, welcomed with a reception at Krabi International Airport, is seen as a significant development in promoting Thailand’s southern provinces as key destinations for beach, cultural, and sustainable tourism.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the new route will add roughly 7,650 seats per month between the two regions, marking a 16 percent increase in flight capacity. The service, operated by an Airbus A321LR with 160 seats, is expected to make travel more convenient for visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries while contributing to regional tourism growth.
Passengers arriving on flight EY424 were greeted with traditional Thai performances and commemorative gifts reflecting the hospitality associated with the “Amazing Thailand” brand. TAT officials said the new air link aligns with Thailand’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the Middle Eastern travel market and support local tourism development in southern Thailand.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the connection between Abu Dhabi and Krabi creates new prospects for sustainable tourism. She noted that the authority aims to empower local destinations to offer authentic, high-quality experiences combining cultural richness with environmental responsibility. Krabi’s provincial governor, Ratthasart Chidchoo, added that the province is prepared to welcome visitors seeking both its natural beauty and its vibrant community-based attractions.
Krabi’s reputation for sustainability has also been reinforced by recent recognition. The Lanta Archipelago National Park was listed among Thailand’s ten winners in the 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories, highlighting the province’s leadership in responsible tourism through the Krabi Prototype model supported by TAT.
To further promote the new route, TAT’s Dubai Office has organised a familiarisation trip for Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) from GCC countries, featuring activities focused on gastronomy, local culture, and themed experiences such as Hidden Gem Cities and the Jurassic World: Rebirth film location route.
Between January and September 2025, Thailand recorded about 618,000 visitors from the Middle East, with total arrivals expected to reach 850,000 by year-end. Middle Eastern tourists typically stay around 10 days and spend an average of 104,000 baht per visit, contributing to the country’s tourism revenue and reinforcing Thailand’s position as a leading global destination for leisure, wellness, and halal-friendly travel.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Interior Minister Sasithorn Kittidhrakul, Permanent Secretary of Transport Chayatan Phromsorn, and Department of Airports Director-General Danai Ruengsorn, alongside TAT executives and representatives from both public and private tourism sectors.
