Phuket is emerging as a favored destination for Gulf buyers, shifting from mere holiday visits to significant investment opportunities. Currently, individuals from the Middle East represent approximately 10% of off-plan property sales on the island. This trend is driven by direct flights from Saudi Arabia, new residency options linked to investments, and ongoing instability in the Middle East, which collectively guide similar buyers toward Phuket’s property market.
In December 2024, Saudia commenced direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to Phuket International Airport. These routes, initially designed as seasonal winter services, now operate three times a week from each city, having been inaugurated in ceremonies attended by officials from both nations.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that 209,929 Saudi tourists visited Thailand in 2024, marking a 28.42% rise from the previous year, with over 77% being first-time visitors. Phuket International Airport also saw a total passenger count of 8.65 million, reflecting a 23% increase compared to 2023.
According to property consultancy MORE Group, an increasing number of buyers from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait are entering the Phuket real estate market. Estimates indicate that Middle Eastern purchasers accounted for roughly 10% of off-plan sales in 2024, making them the fastest-growing demographic in the market, although the Land Department does not provide official nationality breakdowns.
This shift is particularly significant considering that prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Chinese buyers dominated the market, representing 60% to 70% of off-plan sales. Currently, foreign buyers constitute over 60% of high-end transactions on the island, with Russian, European, and Middle Eastern clients leading the way.
Three key factors are contributing to this growing interest from Gulf buyers:
1. Direct Flight Access: Before the introduction of direct flights in December 2024, travelers from Saudi Arabia had to transit through other destinations to reach Phuket. Saudia now provides three weekly flights from both Riyadh and Jeddah, facilitating easier access for prospective buyers. Other airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, and Oman Air also offer connections from various Gulf states, making property scouting trips more feasible.
2. Investment-Linked Residency Options: Since October 2025, new Immigration Bureau orders have permitted buyers purchasing properties valued at three million baht or more to apply for a one-year renewable residency extension. To apply, individuals must secure a certificate from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports via Thailand Longstay Service, a process that typically takes seven to ten business days. Additionally, the Board of Investment’s LTR visa offers a ten-year residency option for those with minimum net assets of US$1 million and a Thai investment of at least US$500,000.
3. Regional Instability: Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have prompted some Gulf investors to consider purchasing properties abroad as a precaution. Early 2026 experienced flight disruptions due to heightened tensions in the region. Phuket’s reputation as a stable destination with excellent medical facilities, international schools, and reasonable living costs continues to attract this demographic.
According to Chotiwit Sakulsongboonsiri, a property agent at Fazwaz Phuket, the island’s established Muslim community and halal amenities are significant attractions for Gulf buyers. He noted, “Phuket has a strong Muslim culture — communities like Bang Tao, halal restaurants, and mosques across the island. The beach lifestyle and resort atmosphere suit the religious practices and family travel patterns of Arab buyers more than a busy city like Bangkok.” Chotiwit further highlighted that Phuket is considerably more affordable than comparable resort locations such as Bali or Ibiza, with condominium prices starting at 120,000 to 160,000 baht per square meter. Villas in the Bang Tao-Cherngtalay area saw price increases of 12% to 18% in 2024, with rental yields ranging from 5% to 8% annually for professionally managed properties.
Several prominent Thai developers are targeting this market segment with tailored campaigns aimed at international buyers. Ananda Development has launched a campaign titled “Relocate to Thailand — We Handle Everything,” which emphasizes comprehensive relocation support. Sansiri promotes Thailand as part of a “global wealth ecosystem,” focusing on healthcare, international schooling, and living costs alongside residential offerings. SC Asset has collaborated with Thai Longstay Management to promote long-stay options for foreign buyers, particularly those purchasing condominiums valued at three million baht or more.
As the domestic market faces challenges, with data from Cushman & Wakefield Thailand revealing that only 7,170 new condominium units were launched in the first quarter of 2026, developers are increasingly seeking new buyer pools. Gulf purchasers represent a demographic with strong purchasing power, long-term residency intentions, and a preference for high-end properties. The sustainability of this trend will largely depend on the evolution of residency regulations and the potential expansion of direct flight routes beyond seasonal offerings. Nevertheless, the profile of Phuket is gaining prominence in the Gulf region at an unprecedented rate.
Source: Thaiger
