Thailand Government looks to grow sport tourism with new Muay Thai visa

In an effort to grow its sport tourism market, the Thai Government has announced the introduction of a 90-day Muay Thai visa specifically for foreigners interested in training in the traditional Thai martial art.

This new visa will extend the maximum stay beyond the typical 60 days allowed by regular tourist visas.

Advising of the move last week, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin also noted that a similar visa will also be offered to tourists who wish to learn Thai classical dance, music or Thai cooking - each seen as elements of Thailand’s soft power.

Assist Professor Pimol Srivikorn, one of Prime Minister Thavisin’s advisors and Chair of the Thailand’s Soft Power Subcommittee on Sports, said that, at its recent meeting, the panel recommended that the Government must first set the standard for Muay Thai trainers and organise a training course for them, so they can be sent abroad to teach Muay Thai.

Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, incorporates stand-up striking, sweeps, and various clinching techniques.

It has a strong following and growing participation in Australia, Japan, South Korea, Russia and the USA.

According to the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the market value of sports-related tourism in 2018 was estimated at about 120 billion baht (US$3.4 billion) - a sum that increasing by an average of 5% annually.

Last year, Thailand attracted 28 million foreign visitors, and with the goal of reaching 35 million this year, the Thai Government aims to leverage its cultural and sporting heritage to enhance tourism prospects.

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