Mr Lertchai said a host of events and activities from Dec 28 to Jan 1 promised to revitalise the island’s economy.
Phuket is set to welcome a surge of tourists for the New Year 2025 celebrations, with over 231,970 visitors expected to generate approximately B8.03bn in revenue, Mr Lertchai said.
As of Nov 29, Phuket boasted 2,069 hotels with 111,427 rooms, achieving an average occupancy rate of 80.72%. Tourists are anticipated to stay for an average of 3.96 days, contributing to the vibrant economic activity, he said.
Phuket International Airport is expected to handle 1,793 flights during the New Year period, including 542 international inbound flights (108 per day) and 354 domestic inbound flights (70 per day), he added.
The total number of passengers arriving and departing is forecast at 297,930, with 100,629 international arrivals (20,125 daily) and 48,211 domestic arrivals (9,642 daily).
According to an official report of Mr Lertchai’s announcement, among the lineup of activities to be held across the island to welcome tourists and “enhance their experience”, are:
- Phuket Coffee Hub Connect: Dec 27 – Jan 2 at Central Festival Phuket.
- Night at the Museum Festival 2024: Dec 27–29 at major museums across the province.
- Phuket Good Products and New Year’s Festival 2025: Saphan Hin.
- Central Phuket International Countdown 2025.
- Patong Countdown 2025: Patong Beach.
- Kamala Bay New Year 2025 Firework Extravaganza: Kamala Beach.
- Karon Countdown 2025: Karon Roundabout.
- Countdown Phuket: Surin Beach Stadium.
Mr Lertchai emphasised the importance of the activities in fostering a festive atmosphere while ensuring tourist safety through robust public health measures and visitor support services, said the official report.
“These efforts aim to boost confidence among travelers and position Phuket as a continuously growing and sustainable tourism destination,” he said.