Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – To revitalize tourism in southern Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is launching the "Hat Yai Surprise Thailand Passport Privileges" campaign from April to May 2026. During the campaign, a TAT delegation will be stationed at Hat Yai International Airport and Sadao Customs to welcome international tourists, presenting each arriving passenger with a "surprise gift bag" containing a selection of Thai souvenirs, creating a wonderful first impression of Thailand.
The welcoming event is led by Ms. Thapane Kiatpaipur, Governor of the TAT, in collaboration with Mr. Nat Krutasut, Deputy Director of Tourism Products and Operations, and Ms. Nattapan Tridecha, Director of the Tourism Investment Promotion Agency, along with public and private sector partners. At Hat Yai International Airport, the delegation will focus on welcoming passengers arriving from Singapore on Scoot; at Sadao Customs, they will specifically greet international tourists arriving by land, conveying the Thai hospitality philosophy with warm service.
Ms. Thapane Kiatpaipur stated, “The ‘Thai Passport Discounts @ Hat Yai’ campaign is a key initiative by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to proactively revitalize tourism in southern Thailand. We aim to establish interaction from the moment tourists arrive, enhancing their confidence in traveling, boosting local consumption, and comprehensively improving the overall travel experience by providing practical and convenient exclusive offers.”
It is understood that this campaign is based on the “Smile @ South” recovery plan launched after the floods in southern Thailand in November 2025. Its core objectives are to accelerate the recovery of tourism in southern Thailand, contribute to the local economic recovery, and further solidify southern Thailand’s international image as a “hospitable tourist destination.” Since its launch on April 1, 2026, the campaign has attracted a large number of international tourists, with a significant proportion from Malaysia and Indonesia.
Currently, the campaign covers three key entry points: Hat Yai International Airport, Sadao Customs, and Patong Besar Customs. Participating tourists can enjoy exclusive discounts and offers from over 100 tourism organizations in southern Thailand, and have the opportunity to win a prize package worth over 500,000 baht sponsored by tourism partners. Participation is simple: Before May 31, 2026, tourists only need to present their passports at designated activity booths at the three entry points mentioned above to receive a beautiful gift bag and complete registration by scanning a QR code to unlock all activity privileges. (End)
