Chiang Mai is hoping for a surge in visitors from Saudi Arabia with various agencies planning to stage a roadshow in the Middle East country later this year to draw visitors here.
The event was the focus of a meeting on Monday headed by Chiang Mai's deputy governor to promote Mice (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) industries in this northern province.
Led by the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Index Creative Village, relevant agencies are coordinating with Saudi Arabia in organising the roadshow in December.
Saudi Arabia is regarded as a market holding promising growth, and its demand for health and wellness, recreation and tourism are great opportunities for Thai businesses.
Chiang Mai, which is seeking to revive its tourism industry hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, is pinning its hopes on the roadshow to help draw more Saudi tourists.
Thailand is said to be a popular destination for Saudis during the fasting month of Ramadan, post-Ramadan and during year-end festivities. About 30% of Saudi visitors are in the health and wellness sector, who spend 80,000 baht on average per person per trip.
