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Phuket joined the global celebration of World Blood Donor Day on June 14 with a series of special events aimed at recognizing blood donors and promoting voluntary blood donation across the island. Commemorative donation drives were organized at the Phuket Regional Blood Centre (Phuket RBC) and at Limelight Phuket shopping mall, while an annual awards ceremony honoring outstanding donors and organizations supporting blood donation took place at The Pago Design Hotel. Although

Phuket International Airport has officially launched its new Automatic Border Control (ABC) system, introducing biometric passport screening technology to streamline immigration procedures for international travelers. The system became operational on June 13, 2026, allowing eligible passengers with electronic passports (E-Passports) to complete passport checks самостоятельно through automated gates. The initiative is aimed at reducing waiting times, improving passenger flow,

Authorities have publicly identified a number of beach clubs, restaurants, and other establishments currently under investigation as part of an inquiry into the alleged use of public land at Bang Tao Beach in Phuket. The probe is being conducted by the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC). According to Rear Admiral Praphan Srisuwipa, Deputy Director of ISOC Phuket, the investigation covers 34 properties, including 16 commercial businesses and 18 residential structures.

Airlines from around the world are continuing to expand their interest in Thailand despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and rising fuel costs, with several new routes to Phuket proposed for the 2026–2027 winter season. The plans were discussed during the 158th IATA Slot Conference, held in Bangkok from June 9 to 11. The event was hosted by Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT), which coordinates flight slots for the country's major international airports, including B

Three accommodation businesses in Phuket have become the first targets of a new enforcement campaign launched by Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) to combat illegal business operations, corruption, and activities linked to influential figures. The inspections took place on June 10 and were carried out by a special DOPA task force from Bangkok under the direction of department chief Naruchai Khonsasil. Information about the operation was released by bot

Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (TPC), the operator of Thailand’s premium long-term residency program under the supervision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has reaffirmed its commitment to strict member screening procedures by working closely with five government security agencies. The company said the enhanced verification process is designed to ensure a high-quality membership base, strengthen national security, and support Thailand’s reputation as one of the

Thailand is moving forward with plans to launch a seaplane service between Phuket and Krabi by the end of 2026, aiming to improve travel links across the Andaman region and attract more high-spending visitors. According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Phiriswattana, the initiative forms part of a broader strategy led by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to strengthen transportation networks and support Thailand’s ambition of becoming a r

Phuket reinforced its reputation as an inclusive international destination with the opening of the Phuket Pride Festival 2026 on June 7. The celebration began with a vibrant parade through Patong, bringing together residents, tourists, and members of the LGBTQIAN+ community in support of equality, diversity, and human rights. The procession was led by Acting Phuket Provincial Chief Administration Officer Naphat Em-on, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security Advisor

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has identified fraudulent student visas as one of the primary targets of its new enforcement campaign, “3 No’s: No Entry, No Stay, No Escape.” The focus became clear following an English-language publication released by Thailand’s Government Public Relations Department (PRD Thailand) on June 6. The report summarized the Immigration Bureau’s performance during the first five months of 2026 and highlighted several key priorities aimed at strengthen

Phuket is hosting a week of Pride celebrations as the Phuket Pride Festival 2026 takes place in Patong from June 1 to June 7, bringing together residents and visitors in support of equality, diversity, and social inclusion. Organized under the theme “From Visibility to Equality,” the event aims to strengthen Thailand’s reputation as an inclusive destination while promoting tourism and encouraging broader acceptance of diverse communities. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ployta

Phuket United FC, a newly formed football club built largely around players under the age of 21, has completed its debut campaign in the Thai Semi-Pro League. Due to the small number of teams competing in the Southern Division, the club played a total of six matches during the season — three at home and three away. The team finished fifth in the standings, collecting five points from one victory, two draws, and three defeats. While the final position may seem modest, the club

Phuket marked the 48th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Suthida on June 3 with a series of commemorative activities, including the release of young sharks and sea turtles into the Andaman Sea as part of a marine conservation initiative. One of the province’s main volunteer events took place at a Royal Thai Navy base at Cape Panwa, adjacent to facilities operated by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). The center is responsible for breeding and raising marine sp

A provincial fact-finding committee has begun an on-site investigation into allegations that sections of public beachfront land at Bang Tao Beach have been occupied by private businesses. The inspection took place on June 2 in Thalang District and was led by Rear Admiral Praphan Srisuwipa, Deputy Director of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) in Phuket, together with Naphat Aemon, Inspector General of the Department of Provincial Administration and Acting Phuket

Phuket International Airport is set to introduce automated passport control gates for departing international passengers on June 13, aiming to reduce waiting times and improve the efficiency of immigration procedures. The announcement comes after widespread discussion on social media regarding long queues at immigration checkpoints and allegations that some passengers were being offered expedited processing for an unofficial fee. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploytalay Laksa

Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn paid an official one-day visit to Phuket on June 1, where she presided over the opening of a newly completed building at Srinagarindra the Princess Mother School in Saphan Hin. The new facility was formally named the Sri Sirindhorn Building and was placed under royal patronage. Upon her arrival, Her Royal Highness was welcomed by Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthavorn, school director Natthayaphon Sewatanon, senior provincial officials, military

Phuket International Airport has responded to growing concerns over lengthy immigration queues and allegations that some passengers were being offered faster processing in exchange for unofficial payments. In an official statement, airport authorities acknowledged complaints circulating on social media regarding waiting times at passport control and claims of extra charges for expedited immigration clearance. Officials emphasized that they take passenger feedback seriously an

Buddhists across Thailand are celebrating Visakha Bucha, one of the most important religious holidays in the Buddhist calendar. Morning ceremonies were held at temples nationwide, while candlelit processions are expected to take place later in the evening. Visakha Bucha commemorates three key events in the life of the Buddha — his birth, enlightenment, and passing into Nirvana. According to Buddhist tradition, all three events occurred on the full moon of the sixth lunar mont

Phuket continued to outperform much of Thailand’s tourism sector during the first four months of 2026, welcoming nearly 4.9 million visitors and generating 186.9 billion baht in tourism revenue despite growing global economic and geopolitical uncertainty. Figures released by the Phuket office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) show that the island recorded an average hotel occupancy rate of 81.85% between January and April, highlighting the destination’s continued pop

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau and other government agencies will suspend operations on June 1 and June 3 in observance of national holidays. June 2, however, will remain a regular working day. The additional holiday on Monday, June 1, was granted because Visakha Bucha Day falls on Sunday, May 31 this year. Visakha Bucha, also known internationally as Vesak, is considered one of the most important Buddhist celebrations. Observed on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, the h

Phuket is set to introduce a new public attraction as work on the redevelopment of the former provincial prison site enters its final stage. The future Phuket Old Prison Park is now more than 80% complete and is expected to officially open to the public in late August. The project is being overseen by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), which aims to transform the once-restricted area into a green public space for both residents and tourists. The new park