TAT celebrates Air Arabia’s new direct Sharjah–Krabi service

New daily route strengthens Middle East and long-haul connectivity under TAT’s Airline Focus strategy and supports high-value market growth

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) marked the commencement of Air Arabia’s daily direct service connecting Sharjah and Krabi, signifying a major advancement in expanding Thailand’s aviation network with the Middle East and enhancing market access for high-value global travellers. The launch represents a key achievement under TAT’s Airline Focus strategy to open new gateways and drive sustainable tourism development in emerging destinations.

TAT highlighted that expanded air connectivity remains essential for positioning Thailand as a preferred destination for quality travellers. The Sharjah–Krabi route reflects tangible progress in strengthening strategic partnerships and unlocking new high-value markets. The service is expected to enrich local economies by broadening opportunities across hospitality, halal tourism services, restaurants, spas, wellness sectors, and small businesses, in alignment with Thailand’s tourism direction centered on Value over Volume.

Air Arabia now operates one daily flight on the Sharjah–Krabi route, adding more than 5,220 seats per month and further enhancing its Thailand network alongside 14 weekly flights to both Bangkok and Phuket. All Thailand-bound services are operated using Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft with capacities ranging from 174 to 215 seats. The route improves accessibility for travellers from the Middle East as well as long-haul visitors from Europe and North Africa, offering seamless onward connections to Krabi, Phuket, and nearby destinations in southern Thailand.

TAT and Air Arabia are jointly conducting a familiarisation programme for media and corporate partners to experience Krabi. This initiative builds upon previous collaborative activities, including promotional events in Dubai and earlier familiarisation trips involving key opinion leaders from the Gulf region.

The Middle East remains one of Thailand’s strongest tourism markets, characterised by high spending, interest in premium accommodation, and strong demand for wellness and family experiences. Arrivals from the region continue to demonstrate upward momentum, reinforcing confidence among airlines and investors in Thailand’s tourism potential.